Being asked to be a bridesmaid is a genuine honour and a lot of fun, but it can also feel a bit nerve-wracking. If you want to be genuinely helpful, not just present, this guide breaks down what to do before the wedding, on the day, and afterwards.
Weddings vary hugely in terms of budget, style, and personality, so do not assume your responsibilities. Ask early:
That first conversation sets expectations and prevents awkward misunderstandings later.
Part of the job is practical help, but a big part is emotional support too. You will be a sounding board for ideas, nerves and the occasional wobble.
A good rule is to listen first, then positively offer help. If you disagree with something, be tactful and keep the focus on what will make the day smooth and happy.
There will be stressful moments, and not everyone will agree on everything. Try to avoid arguments and keep teamwork at the centre.
Simple ways to make this easier:
Remember, it is not a competition. It is about making things easier for the bride.
Hen parties come in all shapes and sizes, from relaxed weekends to activity-packed days. Organising a hen do does come with its own challenges, but it really does boil down to one core factor: the best hen do is the one the bride will genuinely enjoy.
Before booking anything:
The hen do often becomes a story people tell for years, so aim for memorable, not stressful.
If you have agreed to be a bridesmaid, you have agreed to wear what the bride chooses. It can be hard to find a dress that suits everyone, so there is usually a compromise.
Your job is to turn up with your best smile, be supportive during fittings, and get alterations done in good time.
6) Do not feel pressured to spend a fortune
If you are helping with decorations or favours, you do not need to cover costs yourself or overextend. Often the most meaningful touches are personal, not expensive.
If money is tight, be honest early. It is far better to set expectations than to quietly stress about it.
It is a long day, and alcohol is usually easy to come by. Enjoy yourself, but remember you are also part of the support team.
Being tipsy makes it harder to help with:
So drink water, eat something, and keep it classy.
Small mishaps happen. Having an emergency kit makes you look like a wizard.
Bridesmaid emergency kit essentials:
Tailor it to the bride and the venue, but this list covers the most common “save the day” moments.
If you are planning your wedding at The White Hart, Great Yeldham, you can book a showround or send a wedding enquiry via the website, or call the team on 01787 237 250.
The perfect setting for your celebration is out there - we want to help you find it. Our guide will help you navigate your search with a clear checklist, questions to ask at viewings, and a closer look at what makes a truly beautiful barn wedding venue.
Warmer weather, longer days, and soft spring light, as well as an abundance of blooms, mean spring is an ideal season for planning an outdoor wedding. But if you still need convincing, keep reading to discover why we think spring weddings here at The White Hart are perfect.
Are you looking for the perfect photographer for your big day? Here at The White Hart, we have years of experience helping couples tie the knot in our stunning venue and have worked with some of the best Essex wedding photographers.
Spring weddings are a dream come true for many couples, with warmer weather, brighter skies and, of course, lots of budding blooms. Should you be thinking about tying the knot this sweet season, then you’re in for a treat with all sorts of fresh and vibrant florals ready to add an eye-catching touch to your day.
If you’re planning to tie the knot this year but are looking for inspiration, our 2025 wedding trends guide has you covered.
With years of experience helping brides and grooms-to-be plan their big day, at The White Hart, we know what’s hot and what’s not, so can help you plan a day that gets everyone talking for all the right reasons.
So, let’s jump into the top trends you should consider for your big day.
So, you want a barn wedding – but you're a little stuck for inspiration. Perhaps, in fact, your list of barn wedding ideas doesn't go much further than 'barn' and 'wedding'.
Fret not, brides- and grooms-to-be. Here at The White Hart, we began hosting gatherings around the same time Christopher Columbus was sailing to America. It's fair to say we know a thing or two about planning a memorable wedding.
As we become more aware of our carbon footprint, more couples are embracing more environmentally conscious celebrations. From food to transport to floral decorations, there are plenty of opportunities to make your wedding more sustainable. So where do you start?
Eco-friendly wedding favours are a quick and easy way to make your wedding more mindful of the planet. Having come from far and wide, your guests will appreciate that little token of thanks for coming to join the celebrations. However, done without thought, these can quickly end up in the recycling bin or left behind at the end of the day, creating unnecessary waste.
With lengthening days, lighter evenings and the blooming of new life, spring is one of the most beautiful times of the year for a wedding.
Take advantage of the gently warming days, glorious spring flowers and the accompaniment of birdsong and uncover our top spring wedding ideas for a day to remember.
For some planning the decorations and styling for a wedding can be a minefield of different ideas and inspirations. The White Hart Wedding Venue always enjoy working with first class suppliers like Elf Occasions to make sure your wedding looks fabulous. Elf Occasions are based in Witham, Essex and specialise in wedding venue decoration. Emma and her team are brilliant at transforming venues for the big day using creative chair decoration and chair cover hire along with their original and stylish table centrepieces. We asked owner Emma some questions about her business and how she makes sure that the couple get a beautiful looking wedding venue on the day.