Weddingbee Blog

Last weekend, May Bride S and May Groom M had their dream wedding. They’re now dream-honeymooning in Hawaii and posting pics for those of us at work. THANKS, GUYS.

MBS and her ladies in our reception outfits. Pic by Lalit Lakshmanan

Though I was ass-deep in the deets of Bridesmaid A’s 2008 wedding and bachelorette weekend, she didn’t have a formal bridal party. So, until now, I hadn’t worn a matching dress, carried a bouquet, or walked down an aisle.

As bridesmaid duties wrapped up with outfits on and hair did, I made a mental list of all the takeaway lessons. I figured I’d share some thoughts for first-time brides and bridesmaids alike.

• Having snacks and water in your hotel room, even if food places are nearby, is important. I didn’t feel like eating much, but I was thankful to have refreshments at-hand when needed.
• I didn’t feel like drinking beforehand, either.
• …but some sparkling wine can’t hurt for the alcohol-amenable. Completely for the soothing bubbles of course, wink-wink.
• BM dresses with an organza layer will pick up everything and broadcast it to the world: oil from your food or lotion, as well as droplets from your bouquet and water bottle. It’s easily ignored, but you may fret about it nonetheless.
• Don’t store cry tissue in your cleavage.
• I’m pretty sure I only smiled for a portion of the way down, which was not my plan. I hope I at least didn’t look angry, but it’s tougher than it seems to not trip, not cry, and smile for 130 people and their cameras.
• May Groom M and I go way back. I knew I’d cry if I looked at the groom, and you might, too. So maybe glancing at him with a smile and then eyeballing a couple spots behind the officiant is your best move.
• MBS sent a rough itinerary beforehand for everyone with a job on Friday and Saturday, which helped a lot. Brides, leave plenty of time (at least a day or two) for people to call or email questions. As a BM, if you have questions or are confused, it’s your responsibility to ask (politely) beforehand. Conversely, as a bride, I’ve tried to imagine every possible question that may arise. I never think of all of them, so remember that we don’t read minds, as much as we wish we did.

Any other tips for BMs or suggestions for us brides (so we don’t drive the girls crazy)?