The Bridesmaid's Checklist

Being a seamstress, I have been thrown face first into the art of being a wedding valet.

"My gown is wrinkled!" "Don't melt the veil!" "My strap broke!" "I have a run!"

Each of these phrases strikes fear into the heart of even the well-seasoned bridesmaid.

So, for you well-prepared brides and bridesmaids:

A Checklist -- Just for Bridesmaids.

ONE WEEK BEFORE WEDDING

Press gown.
Gather:
Gown
Shoes
Two pairs of pantyhose (one just in case of a run)
Make-up
Hair Pins and Barrettes
Slip
Gloves
Jewelry
Lint Brush
Post-It Note Glue (to stick straps to shoulders)
Safety Pins
Scissors
Seam Ripper
Small Mirror
Stain Remover (K2R)
Static Guard
Thread and Needle to match gown

If arriving from out of town, make sure everything above is in suitcase and/or vehicle.

MORNING OF WEDDING

Get hair and face done.
Get the things gathered One Week Before Wedding (see above) and make sure they are at the Wedding Hall or Church or on their way there.

ONE HOUR BEFORE CEREMONY

Bridesmaids should go to restroom.
Make sure perfume, make-up, slip, pantyhose, and undergarment is on, and hair is perfect.
Hair spray and perfume must be on before gowns come out of garment bags.
Put hair spray and perfume away or no one gets dressed!

Get dressed. Crinolines go on after gown is on. Dress from the bottom up.
(I.e. Step into dress and crinoline. They do not go over head or you will smear you makeup and ruin your hair.)

TEN MINUTES BEFORE CEREMONY

Check:
Hems
Hair
Makeup
Shoes
Flowers
Last minute alterations (e.g. cutting off hanging ribbons or threads)

FIVE MINUTES BEFORE CEREMONY
Line up in order of procession
That's it! Stand tall. Look straight ahead, don't look at your feet, smile, wait for your cue, and keep walking.
You are on their own.