As we all know, planning a wedding can be extremely stressful. Brides and grooms are consistently bogged down with choices to make about their beautiful day. From selecting wedding invitations to deciding where to sit their crazy uncle at the reception, it can become pretty overwhelming.
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As a member of the bridal party, it is part of your responsibility to relieve the bride or groom of as much stress as possible. Below are some best practice tips for both groomsmen and bridesmaids to help make that happen and ensure the new couple truly has the best day ever.
Be the best you
You will be representing the groom as you walk down the aisle, give your speech, and interact with guests, so it’s important to not only feel your best but look it as well.
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Establish and maintain a strict self-care regimen leading up to the big day (it’s important to be consistent). Whether your beauty struggles range from thinning hair to razor burn, it’s important to take action early and invest in an aid for hair loss or focus on skin care products that work for your skin type. If you find something that is working for you, share it with the groom, as this could save him from any panics the day of.
Be responsible when drinking
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This may be one of the toughest dilemmas men struggle with throughout the day of celebrations. Of course, you should let loose and enjoy the day, however, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and limit the amount of alcohol you consume. One of your jobs as a groomsman is to help with any emergencies that may occur and you should be in the right state of mind to do so.
Bonus tip: Negate every alcoholic drink you have with a glass of water. If you need to take a break but still give the impression that you are drinking along with your buddies – add some ice, limes, and seltzer to your glass.
Be Present
It’s important to be present, both physically and emotionally. Offer to attend fittings, cake tastings, or even host a wine night for her to vent about her future mother-in-law.
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As a bridesmaid, it’s likely you’ll feel an array of emotions, overwhelmed being just one. While this is totally normal, take a step back and remember that if you’re feeling this way, the bride must be feeling it too. There is a reason she specifically chose you to be a member of her ‘bride tribe’, be her rock and help make the stressful times enjoyable.
Be Organized
Most couples plan out their wedding a year in advance, leaving you with the feeling that you have endless time to plan the major events that occur between the engagement and the wedding day (e.g. engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party, etc.) However, it is in your best interest to get cracking on the planning and organizing.
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There are helpful bridesmaid apps you can download to help keep the rest of the bridal party in check, and allow for a great platform to ensure all of the girls have access to important details. Taking the lead on this will allow the bride to take a deep breath and focus on the major areas of planning.