Things bridesmaids should never do (and how to avoid the drama)

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is an honour - but it also comes with responsibility. Most bridesmaid “drama” doesn’t come from malice, but from mismatched expectations, poor communication, or misunderstandings about roles.

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about support, awareness, and remembering that your job is to make the bride’s experience lighter, not heavier.

Make it about yourself - The wedding is not the moment to centre your own stress, finances, or opinions.

Criticise choices publicly - If you have concerns, raise them privately - or not at all.

Ignore timelines or deadlines - Dresses, fittings, RSVPs, and payments affect many moving parts.

Undermine decisions - Even if you’d choose differently, your role is to support, not steer.

Compete with other bridesmaids - This creates tension the bride can feel immediately.

Over-promise and under-deliver - Be realistic about what you can commit to.

Disengage completely - Silence reads as disinterest. Presence matters more than grand gestures.