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This weekend my best friend Ashley came to visit and we had such a great time hanging out and catching-up. Our friendship means so much to me and I truly value her being in my life. I say this because when selecting your bridesmaids and groomsmen it can sometimes be difficult. Over the years, it is natural to acquire many friends that are dear to you and your fiance, but when selecting your wedding party you should be very selective when appointing those special people that will be helping you all along the wedding process.
As a member of the wedding party, you are responsible for (1) helping out in any way that you can leading up to the wedding and on the wedding day, (2) being respectful of schedules and deadlines, (3) planning pre-wedding events and (4) costs for attire, travel and accommodations.
That being said you want to select family and friends that you know whole heartily will be supportive and make this time enjoyable and fun!
For the other friends or family members that are close to you, but may possibly bring additional stress to the planning process appoint them an alternative role, so that they are still involved on the wedding day.
Such as:
Usher (escort guests to their seats for the ceremony)
Hostess (pass out the ceremony programs, greet guests at the reception site)
Special tasks (if a friend has great penmanship have them do the escort cards, etc.)
Ceremony Reading
Musical accompaniment
Check-out this great link that has printable responsibility cards for your wedding party:
Wedding Party Responsibility Cards
Great points. All too often brides let guilt dictate who will be in their bridal party.
ReplyDeleteJust because someone is a relative or a long time friend doesn't mean that they should automatically be part of your wedding party.
Brides need to remember it is their day, and they really don't have to do things just to make others happy.
I agree. My motto is, if you're lucky to have friends in your life for a long period of time, then those are the ones that should be in your wedding. I'm talking 10+ year friendships...I think those are the ones that will be genuinely happy for you, understand your needs for your day, and utimately bring joy (not stress) to your wedding day.
ReplyDeleteBTW, I had a great time with my best friend this weekend (as well). Carla is definitely a life long friend and I'm blessed to have her in my life. I had the pleasure in being in her wedding as a maid of honor, and took those responsibilities very seriously. I planned things as well, if not better, than if it was my own wedding because I wanted her to have the time of her life. And I truly enjoyed the experience & can't wait for her to be a part of my special day as well.
Ashley