​Choosing Your Party

​Choosing your wedding party can be super personal! These are the people who are going to accompany you through planning and stand next to you on your big day. My #1 rule for picking a bridal party is to ONLY choose people you feel confident about choosing. Do choose them out of  pressure or guilt. There is no right number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Most couples choose to have an equal number but that is not necessary. Remember having a larger party may equal more expense when it comes to bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts.

Who pays for what?

​There are lots of opinions as far as who pays for what and there is no rule written in stone. IMO you should pay for breakfast/brunch the day of the wedding and a small bridesmaid/groomsman gift. Your bridal party is responsible for their dress/tux, hair and makeup, accessories and travel expense. If you want your bridal party to have an exact pair of earrings or hairstyle you should offer to pay. If you budget allows and you would like to pay for their dress or travel it would be a nice gesture but generally not expected. dresses, travel, shoes and accessories

Gifts

Giving your bridal party a small gift is expected as a thank you for the effort and expense of being a bridesmaid.
Ideas for a gifts: tumblers, robes, jewelry for the big day, alcohol, wine glasses, whiskey glasses, emergency kit, pocket knives, sunglasses, jewelry box, bridesmaid “boxes”, custom anything like stationary, candles,  compact, a clutch, flask, bottle opener, art, jean jacket

Parties

Bridal Shower
 If you choose to have a bridal shower it is typically hosted by your maid of honor  or bridal party. But it can also be hosted by your mother, sister or mother in law. What is the difference between a bridal shower and bachelorette party? A bridal shower is more rooted in the tradition of preparing a girl to be a wife. Items for your home, kitchen and lingerie are typical gifts. The woman who are close to you like grandmas, aunts, other family, coworkers and friends are typically invited.

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
Whether you choose to have a wild Vegas road trip or trips to the spa it will be a memory you both cherish. The one rule is DO NOT have them the day before the wedding! These parties tend to run late into the night and may include indulging in alcohol.