Bridesmaids

Lean on Me: Picking your maids

Have a friend that makes you laugh even when you feel the world is going to end? Have a girlfriend that you trust with all your dirt, fears and triumphs? Have a super-organized friend that always has it together? Well my dear you have some perfect friends to make your Bridesmaids!

We've all seen the comedy Bridesmaids where the bride has a girlfriend she's shared her whole life with just for her to also pick a "newbie" friend that her bestie feels a tinge jealous of.. Park the jelousy at the door ladies and be mindful of your friends' strengths AND weaknesses when choosing their role.

I lucked up. My sister Addie (who got married last year) is serving as my VIP Matron of Honor along with one of my favorite older relatives who is like a mother to me, my cousin Ann.

My closest girlfriend at work- super organized, and my ready-to-ride no matter what the occasion bestie Allison is my maid of honor. Before anybody knew, she knew I was getting married. Before we could get all excited about the details- she had already purchased a wedding planning binder for me full of great ideas and tons of resources.. It has been the single most sentimental item I have in preparing for my big day.

The most thoughtful, considerate, fun, organized, energetic, and resourceful of friends is who you want in your corner.

IF you have folks in your life you can hardly get to answer the phone, but they're fun to be around- send them an invite, but don't put yourself and your fiance in a bind worrying if they will show up on your most important day.

Have a clear vision of what you expect, and have a heart-to-heart with each friend on the importance of your day and if they are interested. Everyone may not have the resources, time, or WANT to participate in your wedding.. remember not to take it personally.

Also- be accommodating as much as possible- avoid BRIDEZILLA status please! If you have a close friend you can't imagine not being in your wedding party, but the economy has touched her pocket- meet in the middle and see if you can go 1/2 on her dress or shoes.. remember- this is YOUR wedding, not a reason to ruin a friendship or create tension in an already tense time in your planning.

Hope this helps! In a future post I will talk about some awesome ideas on HOW to ask your maids.. tune in and by all means, message me! I need help with ideas too! lol