We asked the BuzzFeed Community what they wish they knew before being a bridesmaid. Here are the insightful results.
1. First of all, know that being in the wedding party is guaranteed to get super expensive. 💵
2. Sometimes an uncooperative bridesmaid can cause a LOT of problems for the bride. Don't be the one to cause any problems.
#bridesmaidproblems
"This is the bride's big day. Do what she needs."
—Kelly Steiner, Facebook
3. If you feel like you can't handle it, it's OK to say "no" to being a bridesmaid. Just do it ASAP, and do not wait 'til the last minute.
4. If at any point you're unsure what the bride expects of you, ask and clarify. It'll save you lots of unneeded stress.
5. In fact, figure out early on which bridesmaid will be doing what -- have LOTS of conversations until it's clear.
6. And if you’re the maid of honor, gear up: You're most likely gonna have way more responsibilities than the other BMs.
7. But if you're the MOH and feel overwhelmed, don't be afraid to ask the other ladies or lads for some help.
8. If you live far away, your duty 'til the wedding is to be a huge moral support. It helps more than you know.
9. Even if you hate the dress, suck it up and wear the dress.
10. Weigh your dress alteration options. The shop you buy from may offer services, but there's a huge chance you can get it done cheaper somewhere else.
11. Help the bride out by creating some downtime outside of planning. Take her to a movie, out for drinks -- something non-wedding-related.
12. Get to know the bride’s future spouse before the big day. Go to lunch or do a group outing -- that'll make wedding events much more smooth.
13. On the big day, 👏 pack 👏 snacks 👏 in 👏 your 👏 purse. 👏 You or someone else will need them.
14. And have a mini "emergency kit" for the wedding day. Include bobby and safety pins, band-aids, deodorant -- anything you can think of!
15. Stay out of the other bridesmaids' drama. It may sound clichè, but it's true.
16. Even if she doesn't directly ask for help, be constantly offering help anyway. All brides communicate differently!
17. Wear waterproof makeup — ESPECIALLY if it’s going to be hot outside or if you get emotional at weddings. It’ll save lots of time cleaning up your ~look~.
18. If all else fails, just be there for the bride. No one bridesmaid can do everything!
19. And when all is said and done, don't forget to have a good time -- all of this craziness is temporary!
Note: Submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.