The chief bridesmaid is an important role from the moment she’s asked right up until after the ceremony. There are certain things you need to remember if you’re asked to be the chief bridesmaid and tips we can give you to make sure you’re the ultimate right-hand woman.
The planning process
Make time for a new best friend in your life…step forward Pinterest! Here, you can happily whittle away hours browsing boards of all things meringue and wedding and pass it off as ‘research.’ Make sure you pencil in days with the bride to plan for her big day without interruption. This way, you can guarantee your full attention to an already stressed-out bride. No one is asking you to give up every weekend, but if you can stay ahead of what will need to be done, you can have everything pencilled in nice and early to make your other life plans. Remember to take the groom’s opinion into consideration as well; your job description also requires you to act as chief bridesmaid not just for the bride, but for the groom too.
The hen do
Now is the time to be cut throat. Pick a reasonable date and location and stick to it. Send out a detailed itinerary to invited guests a couple of months before the actual occasion, which includes detailed information such as the cost, activities involved etc. this will open a great communication channel between you and the guests, ensuring the already stressed out bride is not bombarded with questions. Above all, ensure the date and choice of party suits the bride and other guests and not just you. There is often a wide age range at hen parties so the activities have to match the group.
The big day
Your duties don’t stop once the wedding day has arrived. You’re on hand all day to wipe away tears, calm nerves, reapply lipstick and generally be the best friend/chief bridesmaid you can be. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep beforehand so you have a fresh mind to deal with any problems that may arise on the day. It’s always a good idea to carry around some spare tissues in your bag, and also some goodies for any bribery that may be necessary to calm an unruly flower girl or pageboy. As chief bridesmaid, there’s no time to be a shy and retiring wallflower. It’s customary for the chief bridesmaid and best man to join the newlyweds halfway through their first dance. So kick off your shoes and get the party started.
- Michelle Storey
Image credits: White dresses: Jose Villa | Pink dresses: Eden Day Photography | Grey dresses: Marissa Lambert Photography