Whether you’ve been a bridesmaid a handful of times or you’re getting ready to zip yourself into a polyester bridesmaid dress for the very first time, there may be things you find yourself forgetting to do, or doing wrong, that can easily be prevented. Want to know what those things are? Here’s a list of 10 things that all bridesmaids, sometimes, forget to do.

 

1. Remember to Keep It Simple

The main task of a bridesmaid is to keep on being a good friend to the bride. Even if you feel like you’re getting suffocated by email chains or expenses that surpass the amount of money you have in your savings account, it’s important to put all that aside and be there for the bride in the best way that you can be – as a really stellar friend.

 

2. Pack a Survival Kit

You’ll need one. Not sure what should go inside? Ask yourself this: what items would you want on you if you just finished playing a round of kickball in the fanciest dress you own? Pack those things (ie. Band-Aids, Advil, Safety Pins, Snacks).

 

3. Get to Know the Gals

Comparing being a bridesmaid to kickball, again, you’re a member of a team. Get to know the other bridesmaids and the MOH. The less strangers on your team, the more you’ll make it to the finish line without any added stress.

 

4. Make a Budget

And stick to it! Do this the moment after you agree to be a bridesmaid. Look over your current state of affairs and budget out how much you can spend on this adventure. Then, alert the MOH so that she knows when planning the bachelorette party and bridal shower how much you’ll be able to contribute.

 

5. Price Check the Polyester

No matter what anyone else tells you, you’re truthfully not going to wear that bridesmaid dress ever again. So make sure you do some research and price checking at other stores so you can snag it for a decent price.

 

6. Give a Different Kind of Gift

You don’t need to hand over your credit card to pay for every gift during the wedding milestones. Instead, offer some of your own services as a gift. If you’re good at speech writing, offer to help with the bride’s vows. If you’re a professional DIY’er, offer to help put together the centerpieces on the day of.

 

7. Say Thank You

Sure you’re handing over your own precious time and money to be a bridesmaid, but it’s respectful and kind to thank the bride for asking you to take on this honor in her wedding. You can simply thank her with a nice card or by taking her out for a girl’s afternoon of nails and lattes.

 

8. Having One Too Many

Drinks that is. Set a limit. Try not the drunkest one in the room at any point.

 

9. Waiting Until The Last Minute

Book your flight, order your dress, and secure a place to stay ASAP. The longer you wait, the more stress you’ll acquire and the more of a dent you’ll put on your savings account.

 

10. Not Saying No

Being a bridesmaid does not mean you surrender your rights to freedom. You always have the power to say no. So, if you can’t afford an event or can’t make it to the bachelorette party, you can say no. Remember, this should be a fun experience for you too!