HOW TO REALLY DECIDE WHO SHOULD BE YOUR BRIDESMAIDS

Saying yes to the right man and yes to the dress is a breeze
 compared to selecting the women who will make up your bridesmaids. I’ve
 witnessed bridal parties where the women all look alike or are all the same size.
 I have seen bridesmaids where the women are all cranky about the expense or
 reluctant to fuss over the bride. I’ve also seen bridesmaids who were honored
 to be chosen, took their responsibility seriously, and did everything they
 could to help the bride pull off her special day

If I could give brides to be a single tip on choosing their
 bridesmaids, it would be this – choose the women YOU want. Here’s why:

That allows you to prepare a rough estimate of the total cost of
 being a bridesmaid before asking your friends. Because you’ll have a pretty
 good idea of their financial situation, you’ll know how far ahead they need to
 budget and plan without creating a financial hardship for them or hurt feeling
 for you (should they decline your invitation due to limited finances).

Being a bridesmaid is more than just standing at the altar
 looking pretty – it’s a responsibility. When you choose someone to be in your
 bridal party, you’re leaving the responsibility of your bridal shower in their
 hands, asking them to plan your bachelorette party, and asking them to see to
 many of the last-minute details that make or break a wedding. Think carefully
 about your maid of honor and bridesmaid selections. You’re asking them to care
 for you and plan for you like you would plan for yourself – and the last thing
 you want or need is someone envious, selfish, or disinterested in your bridal
 party.

Take proximity into consideration when deciding your bridal
 party, if your friend lives five states away and you really want to include
 her, have a frank, honest conversation about their responsibilities and if they
 feel they will be able to uphold their duties. Are they willing to fully
 participate, fly in for each bridal event, and commit to each fitting and
 celebration? Don’t forget – proximity, and travel time and costs, are also a
 serious consideration for destination weddings!

The bottom line is that YOU know your friends and should be free
 to choose the ones you really want in your bridal party. Eschew outside
 pressure, well-meaning relatives, and other misplaced feelings of peer
 pressure. Choose the women who mean the world to you and who won’t mind making
 the world about you on your special day.