Bridesmaid: Expectation vs. Reality

Bridesmaid: Expectation vs. Reality

We are often asked, “What is expected from bridesmaids?” Our answer is always the same: “Every wedding is different, but it is always the bride’s responsibility to set expectations.”

HOW you go about setting the expectations and timing is key.

We have heard bridesmaids complain about time and financial commitments that go along with being part of a wedding. Obviously, this is not a nice feeling. First, we want to make sure that you are choosing the right people to part of your wedding party. For more on that, you can read our blog what to considering when you are choosing your bridesmaids.

After you decide on your wedding party, it is important to be transparent about what you expect from them. You should do this early on. We recommend that you put the ball in their court and let them decide if it is something that they are even able to commit to.

It may be seen as bossy to ask your bridesmaids to style their hair a specific way or wear a dress that they may not feel comfortable in. We understand that each wedding is unique. Traditions vary culture to culture, religion may play a role, family, and/or lifestyle. So, where to start and what is best practice? We have the inside scoop!

The dress

Traditionally bridesmaids wore the same dress and style of shoe, but thankfully those days are gone! Every body is different and style preferences vary person to person. It is important your bridesmaids feel confident and comfortable in what they are wearing and how they look.

We don’t see the mismatched dress trend going anywhere. If you choose to go ahead with mismatches dress, it is realistic to give guidance. You should feel comfortable telling them the colour scheme, length, material, but let your bridal party choose the neckline and a fit that suits their style.

Tip: forget the notion that your bridesmaid dress is a dress they will wear again. With the number of photos and the symbolic representation of the dress, they will associate the dress with feeling like a bridesmaid.

Hair & Makeup

You can set loose parameters for hair and makeup. Feel free to offer guidance that goes along with the theme of your wedding, for example, formal or relaxed and beachy. It’s okay to ask them to incorporate an element such as a braid for a bohemian look etc.

It is important to keep in mind that jewellery accents and bouquets can really tie the look together. Do worry too much about the mismatched look. You can always lean on your wedding planner for tips on how to create a cohesive look and feel.

Credit: Sara Rogers Photography

xo ~ Nargess