b'12+ MONTHS BRIDESMAIDSBridesmaid dutiesBeing a bridesmaid is a huge honor but also a hugecommitment. A lot of time, money, and patience is required from your closest friends to help make your wedding abso-lutely perfectand thats just the beginning! Share these few things below with your bridesmaids to help prepare them to tackle any task as a dutiful bridesmaid.Planning and hosting parties The wedding party may be in charge of planning and throwing boththe bridal shower and the bachelorette party. This means brain-storming game ideas, researching locations, chipping in on theSTORIES BY SAMANTHA costs of decor, food, and prizes, helping decorate, and assisting with hosting duties. Be sure to confer with the bride to see if there are dates that do not work with her schedule, if she has any specific wishes or expectations, if there are any dietary Average cost of guidelines to be followed, and ask her for a guest list.being a bridesmaid is$1,200 Help choose the bridesmaid dresses You may be asked to help pick out some options for the bridesmaid dresses about seven to eight months before but can quicklythe big day. While you might be the one wearing the increase! dress, this is not the time to make your opinions known. If you find yourself moments away from saying, Spaghetti straps are the worst, or, Magenta isnt my color, remember one thing: this day isnt about you.However, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the bride to stick to a bud-get. The bride doesnt want you to break the bank or go into debt for her weddingjust dont be too restrictive. When addressing the budget, try not to come off as aggressive or demanding. Simply ask kindly if theres any way you could stay under a certain dollar amount to ease expenses.One way to do this is by having mix-and-match dresses.Whether theyre different styles in the same color or different shades in the same color wheel, this allows bridesmaids to show their style, feel comfortable, and stay within their own budget.Another way to save is to buyin-store vs. online. When you QUESTIONS TO ASKbuy online, you have to pay forHow long does it take toshipping and other fees, andship a dress?youll most likely need alterationsCan bridesmaid dresses beor have to exchange your dressaltered in house?for a different size. These costsHow many fittings willcan add up quickly, so there be?shop smart!Will the dresses be pressed Helping the bride with before pick-up?wedding planning tasksDo you offer a discount toAlthough this may not be askedmy bridesmaids if I buy my of you, be prepared and willing todress from you?help the bride with any wedding planning tasks. This could beDont forget to ask the general questions on page 4 KILLIAN ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY32 TODAYS BRIDE|12+ MONTHS UNTIL I DO|BRIDESMAIDS'