While you and your partner will have the final say on all of your wedding day decisions, a little bit of help from your nearest and dearest can really go a long way. Wedding planning is "very" or "extremely" stressful according to 72% of couples, but don't feel like you have to do it alone.
Both in the build-up and on the day itself, your bridesmaids have a lot of responsibility to ensure everything goes smoothly. That's why you'll want to know you can trust whoever you enlist to join your bridal party, and think carefully about the sort of tasks you ask them to do. In this guide, we explore four of the most common things brides will ask their bridesmaids for help with.
Organising the hen party
In the run-up to the big day, you're bound to have plenty on your mind, and the thought of planning a hen do probably isn't top of your priority list. Traditionally, organising this landmark celebration is the responsibility of the maid of honour, with the other bridesmaids helping out in more advisory roles.
Unless you completely trust your friends and family to organise the perfect party that aligns with your tastes and interests, it can be helpful to offer some guidance on your dos and don'ts when it comes to the hen party. This can help to take some of the pressure off the bridesmaids, while also ensuring it's in keeping with your personal preferences.
Adding a personal touch
There are so many ways you can incorporate your bridal party into the big day to add a more personal touch to proceedings. Whether there's a talented singer in the group who'd be willing to perform a few special songs, or a baker who can craft a unique wedding cake, asking your bridesmaids to play different parts in the wedding makes it all the more special.
All of these little elements are also so much more memorable when it's delivered with love by one of your bridal party members - just make sure they're comfortable playing whatever role you ask of them, and give them plenty of time to prepare.
Flower coordinator
Flowers play such a pivotal role in any wedding day, and you've likely already spent many months planning the placement of every last petal. However, particularly when it comes to any sartorial flora, it takes a lot of last-minute coordination on the day; and, when you're busy getting yourself ready for the most important moment of your life, flowers are unlikely to be your primary concern. Whether it's a corsage, boutonniere, or just the bouquets for the bride and bridesmaids, it's helpful to have a trusted friend on hand to ensure everyone has the right flowers on their person.
The post-wedding admin
After the whirlwind of your big day, unfortunately, you're soon brought back down to Earth by a list of tasks that need to be done. These could include returning any rented dresses/suits, coordinating the photo albums, repurposing flowers and leaving reviews for your vendors. However, especially if you're jetting straight off on your honeymoon, it can be useful to have a few helping hands at home to carry out the most urgent tasks that can't wait until you get back. Just make sure you speak to them well in advance, rather than leaving them with lots of last-minute jobs.
