WEDDINGS: It’ll definitely be a challenge but writer eagerly decides to ‘bridesmaid up’

STEPHANIE IP
VANCOUVER DESI

Often, one of the commitments of being a bridesmaid is attending a wedding fair, such as the annual one in downtown Vancouver that is running this weekend, Jan. 5-6, 2013. Ward Perrin/PNG

Every once in a while, life hands you an awesome opportunity that you just cannot turn down. For me, that happened this winter when one of my dearest friends in the world asked me to be a bridesmaid at her wedding this summer. Obviously, I agreed.

Now, some would find this daunting — it’s not just wearing a pretty dress, you know. There are duties one must uphold as a bridesmaid that go above and beyond. It’s like being a quality wingman, Barney Stinson style.

There’s the usual — you’re expected to make a great speech, and help jump-start the dance floor. You’ve also got to help in the planning process, making phone calls and booking appointments.

Even if the bride is in control and seems to have everything plotted out months in advance, there’s a lot you can do just by being enthusiastic. That’s where you come in.

Basically, you have to help throw the best party of your friend’s life, the party to end all parties and cement the hopeful promise of this marriage.

While not every bride is a “Bridezilla,” it’s still no excuse for a bridesmaid to slack off. The goal is to help ensure the bride enjoys her wedding and ends the day with memories that will last a lifetime — period.

Now, I’ve never been a bridesmaid before so I did a bit of research to make sure I was on top of my game. Sheila Orchiston of Rare Earth Weddings, and Briar Johnston of Epic Events were kind enough to share some advice with me on how to make sure the big day goes off without a hitch.

For their thoughts, please click here.

As well, both Orchiston and Johnston will be in Vancouver this Saturday and Sunday for the 36th Annual Wedding Fair at the Westin Bayshore in downtown Vancouver. If you’ve never been, I’m telling you it is both madness and a blessing in disguise.

The fair features dozens of vendors, and you could literally book every single aspect of a wedding over the course of a single weekend if you wanted. Tickets are $20 each in advance, $25 at the door. You can find more info and tips on how to survive a wedding fair at www.weddingfair.ca.

Tags: Barney Stinson, bridesmaid, Bridezilla, wedding, wedding fair