Important Facts To Remember About Your Wedding Party
Many people envision their wedding day as something magical with clear ideas of what the day will entail, including those who will support them at the altar. Members of the wedding party assume responsibility for helping a couple prepare for their nuptials. They should understand they’ll be helping you kick off this new phase in life. You’ll be asking a lot of these people, so remember these “facts” about those in your wedding party.
The Wedding Party is Not Your Wallet or Purse
It’s fairly common for bridesmaids and groomsmen to be responsible for paying for their attire, whether they’re renting or buying. A best man or maid of honor may have additional duties such as planning a stag and doe party or other prenuptial festivities. Be thoughtful about what the people in your wedding party are spending to participate. Your marriage ceremony shouldn’t be a financial burden to you and your future spouse. It definitely shouldn’t be one to those in your wedding party!
They’re Not Your Servant or Secretary
Your nearest and dearest friends and family members often have good ideas and wisdom, making them excellent resources when planning nuptials. Don’t take advantage of their willingness to help. It’s important to be reasonable when expecting others to accommodate your schedule. They have lives of their own. Inviting them to help you find an outfit or sample cakes is cool. Expecting them to be at your beck and call is not.
They’re Not Mind Readers
You might have a sibling or best friend that knows you really well. While they might have a strong sense of your likes and dislikes, you shouldn’t assume they can read your mind. Clear and constant communication is important when preparing for a marriage ceremony. If you want your bridesmaids or groomsmen to do or not do certain things, say so.
They’re Not Your Dolls
Many Canadian couples like the idea of a themed marriage ceremony and reception. A themed event may call for a particular look for your wedding party, especially when it comes to hair, makeup, and apparel. Remember your loved ones aren’t dolls where you can dramatically change their appearance based on your whims. Asking someone to wear a long-sleeved top to cover up tattoos is one thing. Expecting someone to change their hair color is another. It’s unreasonable to expect others to alter the way they look to please you.
They’re Not Your Subjects
Your nuptials are about you and your spouse. While your groomsmen or bridesmaids want you to be happy, you can’t force them to do things they don’t want to do. For example, if you have a loved one that doesn’t drink, don’t expect them to enjoy a glass of champagne just because it’s time to toast. While the day is one of the most important ones in your life, that doesn’t give you the right to bark orders to those in your wedding party. Respect your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
They’re Not Your Fixers
Despite the best-laid plans, something can go wrong, especially when you’re tying the knot. If a photographer fails to show up, don’t expect the people in your wedding party to “save the day” with a smartphone camera or something equally ridiculous. Mistakes are unfortunate, but you can’t expect your circle to fix everything that doesn’t go according to plan.
Having people who love you enough to be in your wedding party is a blessing. Not everyone has that kind of support, so be grateful for those who can handle reasonable duties as a bridesmaid or a groomsman. Making irrational or unrealistic demands of those around you can turn what should be a dream into a nightmare for loved ones.