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What are your Bridesmaids really thinking?

What are your Bridesmaids really thinking?


Alison Hargreaves Guides for Brides Bio
Alison Hargreaves Updated:
8th of March 2023

From helping you with endless wedmin and tedious seating plans to organising a perfect hen weekend and standing by your side on your wedding day - your bridesmaids will be there for you every step of the way. Whilst they're probably bursting with excitement about their new found role, they may also have some unanswered questions on their minds. Read on to make sure you know what your girls may be thinking! 

I'm worried I won't like my bridesmaid dress. It is important to make your bridesmaids feel as comfortable as possible on your wedding day. Choosing a neutral dress style which suits all shapes and sizes is always a good choice. Meeting with your bridesmaids before shopping could give you a good guide of any dislikes or preferences for you to bear in mind.  Multi-way bridesmaid dresses are a popular option as they allow each bridesmaid to personalise her neckline to the one she is most comfortable and confident in. This also enables each individual personality to shine through! 

Should I offer to pay for my dress? Generally, the bride and groom pay for the bridesmaid dresses - but being a bridesmaid for the first time can leave you unsure of what to expect. In some cases the bridesmaid may be asked to pay for or contribute towards her dress. Either way, when you pop the question to your girls, make sure you let them know the financial situation so they don't need to worry. 

I don't know any of the other bridesmaids. Your bridesmaids may already be the best of friends or maybe they have met a couple of times before. However, if this isn't the case, then make sure you introduce your bridesmaids and organise a get together before the hen party. This will make them feel more at ease. By the time the wedding day arrives, they'll be best buds!

Three hen parties! Do I have to attend all of them? So you're making the most of getting married and planning 3 different hen parties! Why not? However, this may leave some of your bridesmaids worried about attending all of the events. Whether they have another important date in their calendar or just can't afford all 3 events - suggest one hen do as your main one (which is "not to be missed!") to relieve any pressure. 

How can I help on the big day? Being a bridesmaid is a lot of fun, but it also comes with great responsibility. Whether it be co-ordinating the other bridesmaids, pinning bridal hair back in place or carrying the bride's handbag - there are plenty of important jobs to share amongst your girls. It may be worth noting down any important duties and assigning them to each bridesmaid. This will make them feel individually important as they will have a specific role.

Alison Hargreaves Guides for Brides Bio

About the author


Alison Hargreaves

Alison has been advising brides, grooms and bridesmaids for more than 25 years. She has an unrivalled knowledge of the British wedding industry and frequently appears on podcasts and expert panels. She regularly attends international wedding conferences to keep the UK at the forefront of wedding planning trends.

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