b'12+ MONTHS BRIDESMAIDSBridesmaid dutiesBeing a bridesmaid is a huge honor but also a huge commit-ment. A lot of time, money, and patience is required to make your best friends wedding absolutely perfectand thats just the beginning! Here are just a few things you should be prepared to tackle as a dutiful bridesmaid.Planning and hosting parties The wedding party is in charge of planning and throwing both the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. This means brainstorm- LAURA KELLY PHOTOGRAPHYing game ideas, researching locations, chipping in on the 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 guidelines to be followed, and ask her for a guest list.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 the big day. While you might be the one wearing the 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 Average cost of my color, remember one thing: this day isnt about you. being a bridesmaid is However, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the bride toANNA DELORES PHOTOGRAPHY$1,200 stick to a budget. 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 but can quickly increase! 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 toQUESTIONS TO ASKsave is to buy in-store vs. online. When you buy online, you have1. How long does it take toto pay for shipping and othership a dress?fees, and youll most likely need2. Can bridesmaid dressesalterations or have to exchangebe altered in house?your dress for a different size.3. How many fittings willThese costs can add up quickly there be?so shop smart! 4.Will the dresses be Helping the bride with pressed before pick-up?5. Do you offer a discount to wedding planning tasks my bridesmaids if I buy Although this may not be askedmy dress from you?of you, be prepared and willing toKRISTINA STAAL PHOTOGRAPHY/ EYE OF LUNA / BLUU RIBBON EVENTS / EYE OF LUNA, JENNY YOO NYChelp the bride with any weddingDont forget to ask the general FROM BELLA BRIDESMAIDS / MISS HALEY PAIGE / FANI FLOWERS / MODELS (IG): @MARIAELENA_PEREZplanning tasks. This could bequestions on page 4@SVRVHV @INSTAHENROSEN @TAIANA.NICHOLE fun stuff, like going with her to 32TODAYS BRIDE|12+ MONTHS UNTIL I DO|BRIDESMAIDS'