How to Be the Best Wedding Party Member: A Guide for Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

Introduction

Being chosen as a bridesmaid or groomsman is a significant honor, signifying the depth of your friendship with the couple. While it is an exciting experience, it also comes with a fair share of responsibilities and pressure to ensure the wedding day is truly special for the couple. Whether you are a bridesmaid or a groomsman, this article will guide you on how to be the best wedding party member and support the couple throughout their journey to the altar.

Tips for Bridesmaids:

1. Be Honest About What You'd Like to Wear: One of the initial tasks as a bridesmaid is selecting the right dress. While it's essential to respect the bride's vision, don't hesitate to communicate your preferences as well. Opt for a mix-and-match approach or suggest comfortable alternatives that still align with the overall theme. Remember, happy bridesmaids make for beautiful and joyous photographs.
2. Respect the Bridesmaid Budget: Ensure you choose a dress within the suggested price range, especially if the bride is covering the cost. Being considerate of the financial constraints of the bridal party will foster a harmonious atmosphere and alleviate stress.
3. Be Available for Boutique Visits: Support the bride during wedding dress shopping by keeping your schedule flexible to attend boutique visits. Your presence can make a significant difference during this emotional and memorable experience for the bride.
4. Foster Team Spirit and Avoid Bickering: As a team, unity is crucial. Work together harmoniously with other bridesmaids and avoid conflicts. Remember that your primary focus is to support the bride, and cooperation will make the journey smoother for everyone involved.
5. Be a Calming Influence on the Big Day: The wedding day can be chaotic, and the bride might feel overwhelmed. Take charge of handling calls and queries, allowing her to relax and enjoy her special day.
6. Punctuality Is Key: Ensure you're on time for all wedding-related events. Being punctual is a sign of respect and helps the day run smoothly.
7. Assist with Finishing Touches: As a bridesmaid, you play a pivotal role in ensuring everything is perfect. Help with the bride's veil, organize flower girls, and assist with any last-minute preparations.
8. Avoid Upstaging the Bride: Remember that this day is about the couple, not the bridesmaids. Avoid trying to steal the spotlight and keep the focus on the bride and groom.
9. Offer Genuine Help: Be proactive and offer your assistance throughout the wedding day. Whether it's carrying the bride's lipstick or coordinating photographs, your support will be greatly appreciated.
10. Be Emotionally Supportive: Wedding planning can be stressful, and the bride will need emotional support. Be available and understanding, offering a listening ear and encouragement when needed.
11. Be a Sounding Board: Be open to hearing the bride's ideas and concerns. Offer your opinion when asked, but remember to be supportive and not impose your preferences.
12. Communicate Honestly: Have open conversations about your responsibilities and financial commitments from the beginning. Be honest about what you can handle and ensure you're on the same page with the bride.
13. Help with Pre-Wedding Events: Assist with planning and contributing to pre-wedding events like the bridal shower and bachelorette party to make them memorable for the bride.
14. Give a Thoughtful Gift: Consider giving a meaningful gift to the couple, either from the registry or a personalized present, to show your love and support.
15. Connect with the Planner: Coordinate with the wedding planner and cooperate with them to ensure the day runs smoothly.
16. Take Care of the Bride: Keep the bride hydrated and fed throughout the day, ensuring she feels comfortable and supported.
17. Prepare for Photos: Assist the bride with any items she may need during photos and the ceremony to help her stay calm and collected.
18. Be a Bathroom Buddy: Offer help when needed during bathroom breaks, especially if the bride's dress requires assistance.
19. Keep the Energy Up: Help set a celebratory mood at the reception and keep the party atmosphere alive.
20. Assist with Returns: Offer to help with returning any leftover items or rentals to lighten the couple's post-wedding tasks.
21. Share Photos: Create a digital collection of candid photos and videos taken during the wedding events, and share them with the couple to cherish while they wait for their professional photos.

Tips for Groomsmen:

1. Help Plan the Bachelor Party: Assist the best man in planning an unforgettable bachelor party for the groom, ensuring it's a celebration he'll cherish.
2. Be Punctual: Be on time for all wedding-related events to support the couple and ensure a smooth schedule.
3. Be Inclusive: Make an effort to welcome and include all groomsmen, even those who may not know the rest of the group well.
4. Give a Rehearsal Dinner Speech: Prepare and deliver a heartfelt speech at the rehearsal dinner to honor and celebrate the couple.
5. Offer to Help: Provide assistance wherever needed, from setting up ceremony chairs to helping with any logistical tasks.
6. Compliment the Bride and Bridesmaids: Show appreciation for the effort put into looking stunning on the big day with genuine compliments.
7. Usher the Ceremony if Asked: If required, take on the role of an usher and guide guests to their seats during the ceremony.
8. Act as a Point Person: Be knowledgeable about the venue and guest list, and be ready to answer any guest inquiries to ensure a smooth wedding day.
9. Get the Party Started: Encourage guests to hit the dance floor and set the tone for a lively and joyful reception.
10. Thank the Hosts: Take a moment to express gratitude to the hosts for inviting you and being part of the celebration.
11. Text or Email Photos to the Couple: Capture candid moments throughout the day and share them with the couple, providing them with a glimpse of their special day while awaiting professional photos.

The Alcohol, The Alcohol, The Alcohol…

In addition to all the tips provided for both bridesmaids and groomsmen, it is crucial for everyone in the wedding party to remember that moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption. While celebrating is an integral part of the festivities, it is essential to be mindful of how much you drink and to gauge what the couple would want for their special day. Because, who knows!? Maybe they would love for you to be a little crazy… but maybe that’s not their expectation. Drinking responsibly ensures that you can fulfill your wedding party duties effectively and be present for the couple throughout the entire celebration.

As a thoughtful gesture, consider surprising the newlyweds with a NextDay hangover beverage package the morning after their wedding. After a night of celebrating, they will surely appreciate a replenishing and refreshing treat to start their first day as a married couple on a positive note. This thoughtful gift not only shows your care for their well-being, but can be a pretty funny little treat to leave them the next morning (that they will actually use!!). Nobody wants a honeymoon to start off hungover. 

In conclusion, being the best wedding party member requires not only fulfilling your designated responsibilities but also being considerate, supportive, and mindful of the couple's wishes. By being there for them emotionally, helping with preparations, and celebrating responsibly, you can contribute to making their wedding day an unforgettable and joyous occasion. Now go off and celebrate!