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Raquel Kelley, E! Fashion Police producer and the creative force behind the wedding blog, I Guess I Do, is sharing her top tips for keeping your bridesmaids happy.
Has your bridal party gone from seven to six? Have your best friends from high school and college entered into a battle royal over who's the favorite yet? Were the tequila shots and inflatable penises a recipe for disaster and drama at your Bachelorette party?
If you answered no to the questions above, then you are on the right track. If you answered yes, then let's deal with the task at hand — before they start dropping like flies.
Bridesmaid Isn't Slang for the Word 'Servant'
Often times we get caught up in the "It's My Day!" philosophy, but we mustn't forget that before these people signed up to buy some taffeta dresses and walk down the aisle next to your husband's weird cousin, they were your friends.
Realize that your friends have lives too. And just because they can't clear their schedule at the drop of a hat to help with your DIY glue gun project gone awry, doesn't mean they don't care. Don't let a relationship that has flourished for years suffer over a single day.
You Said 'Yes' to Their Dress, But They Sure Didn't
Ah, the ever-dreaded bridesmaid dress. My closet in Ohio is full of them (somehow they magically didn't make the trip back to Los Angeles). When it comes to dresses, it's impossible to please everyone, but it's also important to be conscious of body shapes and sizes when selecting.
If your bridal party has a variety of body types, then selecting a color and letting everyone choose their own style in a coordinating shade could work. There are also different companies out there that rent bridesmaid dresses. This is a sure fire way to get on your girls' good side. Which leads me to...
See More: How One Bride Managed Her 13 (Yes, 13!) Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids & Bankruptcy Should Not Be in a Monogamous Relationship
I've had many friends open separate savings accounts in order to start saving for the weddings they were in that year. Yes, you may be paying a lot per plate, but all of your guests especially your bridesmaids are shelling out a ton to be there too. Any way you could lighten their load would be greatly appreciated on their end.
If you really need them to buy that $400 dress, then you should also contemplate paying for half of it. And all of those matching accessories add up, so splurging for their shoes and jewelry could make for a great gift.
In the end, these ladies are not only your bridesmaids, they are the shoulders you've cried on, and the hands that held your hair back in college. They've sat through countless conversations over wine about you and your soon-to-be husband's relationship — from the first date, to the first kiss, to the first time he forgot your birthday.
These gals have been there for it all and are part of the reason you are with your man today. So be sure to show your appreciation and help give their bank accounts a bit of a break!