My Top Ceremony Tips for Bridesmaids
If you’ve been asked to be a bridesmaid—congratulations! It’s such an honor to stand beside your friend or loved one on their wedding day. But beyond the dresses, flowers, and fun, there are a few important details to keep in mind during the wedding ceremony itself.
As a North Carolina wedding planner and coordinator, I’ve seen countless ceremonies, and I know that when the bridal party feels comfortable and confident, everything flows more smoothly. Whether you’re part of a formal church wedding or a casual outdoor celebration, these tips will help you look and feel your best as you support the couple on their big day.
Here are my top ceremony tips for bridesmaids:
1. Listen for Cues
Your wedding coordinator (that’s me!) or officiant will give you clear instructions before the ceremony begins. Pay attention to when you’ll be asked to line up, start walking, and move during the ceremony. If I’m coordinating your wedding, I’ll even give you a little signal when it’s your turn!
2. Walk Just a Little Slower Than Normal
It’s easy to speed up when you’re nervous! Walk just a bit slower than your regular pace to keep things graceful and give your photographer time to capture the moment.
3. Hold Your Bouquet by Your Belly Button
This is a simple trick that instantly improves your posture and makes photos look balanced. Keep your hands relaxed and hold the bouquet right at your belly button—it’s the sweet spot!
4. Match Your Stance to the Couple
During the ceremony, watch how the couple is standing. Are they facing forward or toward each other? Adjust your stance to mirror them slightly—this looks more natural in photos and keeps everyone aligned.
5. Don’t Lock Your Knees While Standing
This is a big one! Standing for an extended time with locked knees can make you feel lightheaded (and no one wants to faint during the vows!). Keep a soft bend in your knees and shift your weight gently if needed.
6. Watch Your Posture
Stand tall, roll your shoulders back, and relax your arms. Good posture makes you look confident and poised—and helps those dresses shine!
7. Be Ready to Help the Bride with Her Dress
If her train needs fluffing or her veil gets tangled, be ready to step in (discreetly!) to help. It’s always appreciated—and I’ll usually give you a subtle nod if assistance is needed.
8. After Recessing Out, Keep Walking
Once you’re walking back down the aisle during the recessional, keep moving all the way to the end of the aisle or wherever your coordinator directs. Don’t stop at the back of the ceremony space, or it may cause a traffic jam!
9. Don’t Forget to Smile!
It sounds obvious, but in the moment it’s easy to look too serious. Take a breath, relax, and smile as you walk. You’re celebrating something beautiful, and your joy will shine through in the photos!
You should be able to trust your coordinator.
When I’m coordinating a wedding, I always review these tips with the bridal party before the ceremony and guide you through every step. My goal is to help everyone feel calm, confident, and prepared—so you can focus on celebrating this incredible moment.
If you’re planning a wedding and looking for an experienced North Carolina wedding coordinator to keep things running smoothly, I’d love to chat!