5 Tips for Being the Best Bridesmaid at an LGBT Wedding

Weddings are always equal part exciting and stressful, and most couples are aware that they can’t plan the whole thing all on their own. That’s why they rely on their bridesmaids to step in and share the load, and being invited to join the event is one of the greatest honors you can receive. Is your dear friend or cousin finally getting hitched with their partner and they want you to be there to share the joy with them? That’s great! LGBT weddings are usually extremely fun, but they follow a slightly different set of rules. For those who want to do their best and follow these rules, here are some tips that will help you be the best bridesmaid at the event.

Don’t offer commentary unless asked

The brides are likely to be stressed and telling them something like “Well, that’s not what I would wear” is just going to send them into a fit. You might not understand their choice of attire or decorations, but keep it to yourself unless asked directly for an opinion. This is especially important for straight bridesmaids who might not understand the LGBT culture or why the brides both want to wear a fitted suit instead of a dress. When someone does ask you for an honest opinion, then do your best to answer kindly and truthfully.

Discuss your attire and makeup with the couple

The brides are likely to leave you with the option of picking either a suit or a dress. After all, at a queer wedding, gender identity is a big deal—the couple will want you to feel comfortable in your own skin. Still, you should discuss your choices with them to make sure they agree. When it comes to makeup, going for a natural look is always a nice option, and as long as you have all the tools, you can probably paint your face on your own without hiring a makeup artist. You can stock up on basic necessities over the internet—simply buying mascara online and maybe investing in a nice brow pencil and lipstick is more than enough to make you look fresh and glamorous. Show the brides what kind of look you plan to rock for their wedding, and make sure they approve it.

Keep an emergency kit around

A good bridesmaid is always there to help in an emergency. To make this possible, create a small emergency kit where you’ll keep a needle and thread, wet wipes, duct tape, Band-Aids, blotting paper, painkillers, and maybe some makeup for touching up. If one of the brides rips her outfit or gets a paper cut, you’ll be able to solve the problem quickly and efficiently. Everyone loves that one person who stays calm in the face of panic, and this will definitely help you keep your head cool.

Bring good energy

The brides are probably nervous as hell even though they won’t admit it, and having a positive personality there who can get things started and lift up the atmosphere is invaluable. Let your excitement show, and help by communicating with other guests and getting them hyped up as well. Another thing you can do is help non-LGBT guests feel more at ease by chatting them up, explaining things they don’t understand, and showing them that this wedding is just like any other.

Be punctual

Would you like everyone in the room to hate your guts? Then be a minute late to a rehearsal, or even worse, the ceremony itself. Tardiness is out of the question when it comes to anything wedding related—everyone is already super stressed, and waiting around for one person who doesn’t know how to manage their time is nerve-wracking. Never be late to anything because the brides will appreciate simple punctuality and competence more than anything.

There’s really nothing quite as fun as a gay wedding. While they are a little different than straight weddings, in the end, they’re all about love. The couple just wants to share their joy with their closest friends and family, so as long as you help them do that, you’ll be