Bridal Party Do's and Don'ts

All members of a bridal party have to observe important do's and don'ts. As a bride, it is important to set a good example during all stages of dealing with the bridal party, while the members should respect the bride's (and groom's) wishes. Most importantly, following proper etiquette prevents you from turning into Bridezillas. This may seem funny on TV, but is not humorous in real life.

Do's for the bride. Do take great care when selecting the bridal party and state your expectations upfront. If someone cannot meet your particular hopes, you are then free to choose someone else without hard feelings.

Communicate effectively with all members in your wedding party, including the groom. Do make everyone feel special. Even if the wedding is thought to be about the bride, it is important to treat everyone in the bridal party, male and female, with respect and consideration.

Don'ts for the bride. Do not subscribe to archaic concepts, and do not be stifled by gender roles. If you have a male friend who is suitable as, or would love to be, Man-of-honor or Best Woman, do not overlook him in favor of a female who is not even a close friend, nor otherwise suitable, just for the sake of status quo.

Once you have chosen a bridal party, do not set unrealistic expectations, nor hold them up to ridiculous standards. For example, do not choose bridesmaids' dresses out of their price range. Also, do not require members of your bridal party who live farther away to incur large travel expenses for showers and parties if they cannot afford them.

Do's for the groom. As a groom, it is important to know the appropriate duties and etiquette. Lack of family support or money is no excuse. The groom's main duty in regards to the bridal party is to select all the apparel and accessories for the male members of the bridal party. In addition, the male groom has to provide lodging information for all out-of-town bridal party members and other guests.

Don'ts for the groom. Gone are the days when all the groom had to do was pay for the ring and the honeymoon. As a groom, don't make yourself scarce while she stresses over choosing the bridal party and all other planning she has to do in relation. While etiquette does not directly dictate a groom's involvement in female matters, do not be emotionally unavailable at this most important time. In addition, do not forget to pay for the corsages and the bridal bouquet.

Do's for bridal party members. Respect the religious, spiritual, or nontraditional aspects of the wedding, regardless of whether or not they agree with your individual beliefs. If there is a personal conflict, do speak up at the very beginning. Do understand what kind of commitments are involved with your role and that you can fulfill them.

Don'ts for bridal party members. It is important to not violate bridal party etiquette because of ignorance, regardless if you are male or female and what part you play. Do not solely rely on the bride or groom to inform you of your duties. Also, do not forget that personal standard of conduct starts way before the rehearsal dinner and extends to past the end of the reception. Getting drunk during the celebration, or causing problems at any time during the bridal party planning stages and actual wedding, is definitely a don't.