wedding planning: bridal party

Next to who you’re choosing to marry, which is pretty freaking important, it’s so important to choose the very best people to stand by you on your big day. You think it’s a no-brainer, but it’s not always the easiest task. Choosing your bridal party is so important because it can really affect how your wedding day and all the other special days go. So, I’ve put together a guide for brides and bridesmaids breaking down all the important parts of your bridal party.

Side note, I had literally the very best people in my life by my side. My bridal party was one of my few bridezilla moments, but I stuck with my heart and felt like if someone couldn’t take a couple days out of their life to support me, then they weren’t a true friend. Sounds harsh, but when it comes down to it, you’re only doing this once. The people standing by you should be so supportive. In the end, I had the best bridesmaids I could imagine. Every vendor commented on how fun and funny we are (hair flip) and we kept my hair girl laughing the whole time. That’s just who we are.

• Pick people that would drop anything for you and vice versa. After all the engagement hype dies down, who is really there for you? Those are your people.
• Spoil your bridal party. I think it’s so important to spoil the people in your life all the time, but especially during this season of your life. They are about to spoil you with their time, gifts, and love, so return the favor.
• Pick the girls that you have fun with. Nobody like a Debbie Downer on your big day.
• Make them feel important. You’re obviously like number one during this whole thing, but it’s also your job to make them feel number one too. This kinda goes with spoiling them, but honestly just don’t go bridezilla all the time.
• Include your bridal party in planning. When I was my besties maid of honor, she asked my opinion throughout the process and trusted my ideas. I was so appreciative. And honestly, it never hurts to get a second or third opinion on things.
• Choose people that are supportive of you and your future husband.
• It’s never too late to make changes to your bridal party. This goes back to my bridezilla moment. It’s so true though. Sooo many people don’t talk to a bridesmaid or two down the line, but I didn’t want that at all. I mean nobody does, but I wanted to make sure that wasn’t going to happen. Don’t be afraid to stick with your gut and make changes. J was so supportive when things went south with one of my girls and it made it so much easier to make that decision.

Honestly, don’t expect your bridesmaids to drop their lives and book a week long bachelorette party to Vegas and buy the $400 bridesmaids dress. Be realistic and be respectful of their time and money. At the end of the day, what’s important is that you have your favorite people by your side.

From left to right: My little sister, Corinne. J’s sister, Mae. My KS gal, Kelsey. My college bestie, Lizzy. My big, Brittany. My college roomie, Kelly.

Also, you can read about their dresses and accessories here. Highly recommend watching the wedding video here to hear speeches and see how amazing the day was.