Bridesmaids Survival Guide
IIt’s such a privilege to be chosen as a bridesmaid, you are officially a wing woman for the bride and you shouldn’t take your role and responsibility lightly.
You’re here because you matter deeply to the bride and this blog post is here to help you be the ultimate bridesmaid!
So, lets dive in…
Be early
Okay girls, I’m sorry but on time is late. Arrive a little early to planning meetings, dress shopping with a coffee in hand, calm and ready to support the bride.
Be actively involved in the journey
Share ideas, send inspiration, and help lighten the load wherever you can. Whether it’s floral options, make-up looks, bridesmaid dress ideas or new boutiques she may not have discovered yet, your input is incredibly valuable. Be her sounding board, her researcher, and her greatest support.
Know the preparation plan
Check all the details before the day.
Hair - who’s having hair done, where are you having hair done, how much time is allocated for each bridesmaid and what .
The same goes for make up and of course bring reference photos and arrive with clean, dry hair and a fresh face so the morning runs smoothly.
Know the timeline
Study the group chat. Know when to be dressed, what time the car will be arriving, when the photos start, and where you need to be — without being chased.
Stay photo-ready.
There will be SO many photos. Keep lipstick topped up, keep phones put away, keep bouquets out of water until the majority of photos have ended and help straighten the dress, veil and straps.
Pack a bridesmaid emergency kit
Think: mints, tissues, blotting paper, plasters, fashion tape, safety pins, mini deodorant, painkillers, eyelash glue, stain wipes, perfume, lipgloss, and a phone charger.
If you do a speech, please don’t wing it
If you’re giving a toast, don’t rely on adrenaline. Write it, practise it, and deliver with heart.
Be the bride’s calm in the chaos
Hold the bouquet, fix the veil, help with shoes, remind her to breathe, and be her emotional anchor during the moments that feel overwhelming.
Keep the vibes high (without going wild)
Celebrate, enjoy the fizz, but keep a cool head.
Respect the dress
Your dress, her dress — all dresses. Keep drinks away, avoid sitting on anything dusty, muddy or covered in animal fur, and always check for stray lipstick before hugs.
Stick with the bridal party for photos
Try not to wander off too much! Help organise family for group pictures, fluff the train, and make sure the bride has everything she needs.
Build a friendly bond with the suppliers
Learn the names of the planner, photographer, hair and make-up artists. When the bride needs something, you’ll know exactly who to ask.
Look after the little things
Hold her lipstick, keep tissues nearby for happy tears, protect the bouquet, and check the veil for stray hairs.
Be the dance-floor starter
Once the party begins, help get everyone moving! Bring aunties, uncles and shy friends into the fun. Your energy means more than you know!
Keep Stress Away from the Bride
Handle family questions, divert drama, and manage little hiccups calmly in the background so she can enjoy every minute.
AND FINALLY…
Show up for the marriage, not just the wedding
This is about more than the day. Be there for the moments that follow. Being a bridesmaid is about love, friendship and showing up where it counts.
I hope this has offered some clarity and comfort as you plan your special day. I’ll be back with our next post soon however in the meantime, join us on social media for more tips, inspiration and support.
With love,
Yasmin & Phil
From Yes 2 I Do