Bridesmaids. White? Ivory?

Bridesmaids in White

Bridesmaids in White

You might think dressing your bridesmaids in white or ivory is taboo, but it’s actually quite traditional (and very stylish).

In olden times, bridesmaids served as “decoys,” wearing white to distract those hoping to kidnap the bride!

How many bridesmaids should you plan on

Bridesmaids at play

This is a personal choice.  The average number of bridesmaids is about 3-5, plus the Maid of Honor.  This gives the altar a nice, full look without it looking over crowded.

Usually you match bridesmaids with groomsmen, so consider how many groomsmen your groom would like when choosing your bridesmaids.

Remember, no matter how many you choose, it is your (and you grooms) decision.  After all it is your wedding day.

Then there’s the bridemaids’ gifts

Spa Treatments

Today’s top 10 bridesmaids’ gifts:

  1. bold coctail rings-major bling for minor bucks
  2. mini camcorders-cute, and your’re sure to get at least one great take of the first dance.
  3. statment cuffs,-perfect for sleeveless dresses
  4. spa treatments-who doesn’t crave a massage?
  5. clutches-this year’s chicest accessory
  6. pashminas-the kindest gift for those going strapless in Seattle
  7. personalized jewelry-a symbol or an initial add meaning
  8. ballet flats-practicality meet style
  9. long pendant necklaces-2010′s pitch-perfect bauble
  10. gift card-the ultimate custom present

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

“What do I get my bridesmaids?”

If you had been pondering this question, here are just  a few ideas:

  • Spa certificates: or plan a trip to the spa, and treat everyone to a massage.  Your “maids” will appreciate the special pampering.
  • Personalized picture frames: Including an individal photo of you with each bridesmaid in their frame.
  • Jewelry: Maybe something to wear at the wedding, choosing something they will wear again.
  • Monogrammed totes: A fun canvas bag and fill it with several of the items they will need the day of the wedding.  i.e. hand cream, clear nail polish, hankie, kleenex, mints, etc. (for more ideas of bag inserts, check out my website under bride’s room emergency list)

Were you ever a bridesmaid?

 What did you do with the dress?  Could you wear again?  Could you wear it to an formal evening out? Did you like it?

What about it brides?  Why not choose a bridesmaid dress that…can be worn again and again? Or let each girl wear her prom dress (of course it has to be somewhat in your color scheme)?  Anyone else have any ideas on good bridesmaid’s dress choices?

Past bridesmaids, how about commenting on this post and let all of the brides and our followers know just how much liked your dress? (and it’s cost?)

Would it be rude if…

I asked my bridesmaids how much they could afford to spend on dresses and accessories?

It’s not rude to ask your bridesmaids about the price ranges when it comes to dresses, but it might be a little awkward.  Start by feeling out what each girl’s situation is.  If you are unable to figure it out, by all means ask.  You don’t want a bridesmaid to feel she has to back out or not pay a bill.

Chosing Bridesmaid’s Gifts

The perfect bridesmaid’s gift is a cinch with a little thought and effort. Since everything gets hectic as the wedding approaches, the best time to think about these gifts is when you make your selection of the bridesmaids. A simple gesture with a sweet intention and a meaningful slant makes the best gift of all.

Finding the perfect bridesmaid’s gift is often a daunting task. Take the time to really think about what would be meaningful, not only to you, but also to your bridesmaids. The appreciation that you are showing for all of their help and support with the perfect thank you gift should be sweet, simple, and meaningful.

The perfect gift to say thank you with will have special memories attached to it. For years to come, the gift will be cherished fondly as a reminder of the wonderful friendship and camaraderie experienced during this momentous time. A gift that has been selected with the bridesmaid in mind will be treasured more than a gift that has been selected on the basis of expense or affectation.

#2 Trend Black accents and bright, bold colors are in…

for  everything from bridesmaid dresses to flowers to table linens. However, if you want a timeless dress for your bridal party, you can always do classic black with vibrant accessories and bouquets.

#1 Wedding Trend – Forget what is in – Be Yourself

The top wedding trend for 2010 is personalization. Instead of a cookie-cutter ceremony and reception, the new focus is on customizing the big day for the bride, groom and wedding party.

  1. Do you and your future hubby share a special hobby? Whether it’s exotic travel or tennis, find a way to make your passions part of the celebration.
  2. The emphasis on individual style includes your bridesmaids. Instead of clones wearing the same dress, shoes and identical updos, try picking a color scheme and giving each bridesmaid the opportunity to choose a dress that shows her personality… and complements yours. 

Can you imagine being hit by a shoe?

The tradition of tying shoes to the back of the couple’s car stems from Tudor times. Back then, guests would throw shoes at the bride and groom. If they or their carriage were hit, it meant good luck was bestowed upon them. In Anglo Saxon times, to establish his authority the groom symbolically struck the bride with a shoe. Brides would then throw a shoe at the bridesmaids to see who would marry next. Makes you appreciate the bouquet toss, doesn’t it? 

Throwing old shoes after the bride is a sign that authority is being transferred from the bride’s father to her new husband. A variation is for the bride’s father to throw her shoe after the groom as a token of his surrender of his daughter.