8 Essential Must-Haves for Every Bridesmaid

Like the bride, bridesmaids need to be prepared for the wedding day. This is why we've created this simple list of things bridesmaid should have for the wedding. Here are just some of many ideas we came up with to make the wedding planning process a smooth one.

The Right Fit for Your Bridesmaid Dress: Make sure you pick the right size for your bridesmaid dress. Often times bridesmaids will pick a dress that is a size or two larger than their actual size which allows room for alterations later. If you're the bride looking for the right bridesmaid dress for your girls, be sensitive to the color you choose and the style. Not every color or style will work for every girl. When it comes to a great bridesmaid dress, one of our many favorites is the Twist Wrap Bridesmaid Dress. It's versatile, comfortable and perfect for any season!

All the Right Accessories: You will want to complete the look for the wedding. So, having all the right accessories is important. Need a clutch? How about a pair of earrings? Check out the Eva Jeweled Minaudiere (and more!) available at Dessy.com.

The Right Shoes to Dance in: Everyone loves dancing at a wedding and it would be ideal if we could dance in our shoes the entire time, but often, shoes get thrown to the side and most bridesmaids are found dancing barefoot. This is why it is important to find a shoe you know you will be comfortable in. Your shoes must feel good as well as look good.

All of your Appointments Set: Whether you're making them or it is a task the bride has given herself, make sure all your appointments are set for the wedding day, this includes makeup, hair and nail appointments. It is difficult to get major appointments at the last minute, so plan accordingly. Brides: want to keep your bridesmaids organized? Check out our Bridesmaid Planner app!

The Help of Other Bridesmaids: When you're part of a bridal party, it is not just a one-woman show; bridal parties rally around the bride in support for one of the most important days of her life. This is why it is important that as a bridal party all the girls are involved in some facet of the planning. The maid/matron of honor should delegate tasks and communicate in a timely fashion about what needs to get done. This will prevent any drama on the day of the wedding.

Enough Time and Money to be in a Wedding: While no one likes to back out of a wedding, or decline from the start, it does happen. Before you say yes to being a bridesmaid, (and we know this is hard) see if in fact you have the time and money to in fact be part of it. If you're already part of other weddings or you're attending multiple weddings or you are a bride yourself (it can't get any crazier than this… we hope), you may need to think twice before you say 'Yes' to being in yet another wedding. Or if you simply don't have the finances to be part of even one wedding, understand that it is fine to say no.

A Little Rest and Relaxation: We all have jobs, families and lives of our own, so it can get pretty stressful to juggle all of that and be part of a wedding party. This is why it is important for bridesmaids to find time for rest and relaxation. We recommend this even for brides, but it is also important for bridesmaids to take time off from everything and do something they enjoy - even if it is just sleeping!

A Good Attitude: If you have agreed to be part of a wedding, try and maintain a good attitude throughout. Be willing to help out and keep complaining to a minimum. While it is okay to say no to some things, keep in mind you have agreed to be part of a wedding and with that comes responsibility. So smile and show your support!

Need a bridesmaid dress in a hurry? Check out our In-Stock Bridesmaid Dresses!