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Weddings

5 Tips for Dealing With an Overbearing Bridesmaid

Overbearing bridesmaids can really put a damper on the whole wedding planning process, so knowing how to deal with them is essential.

Laura Kelly Photography

Weddings are exciting for everyone involved, so don’t be surprised if a few of your bridemaids get extra invested in the wedding planning process. It’s totally normal for VIPs to try to take the burden off of the bride by doing some of the more monotonous chores, like invitation prep, decorating for pre-wedding parties and playlist making, but if one of them starts to get too invested they may cross the line into maidzilla territory. Turn to this list if one of your ‘maids starts getting a bit too demanding and diva-like.

Here are a few tips for dealing with an overbearing bridesmaid.

Be clear when delegating duties
Sometimes all your overbearing bridesmaid needs is a little structure. Instead of letting her chip in on every task, delegate specific jobs to her so that she can focus her attention on one or two things instead of taking over your entire wedding. Putting together your wedding favours, crafting your welcome baskets and tracking RSVPs are tried and true options.

Don’t bring them to every appointment
While having a type A friend by your side can be super helpful, they don’t need to come along to every single wedding-related appointment, tasting and fitting. That’s right, there is such a thing as involving your bridesmaids too much. Yes, you should bring ‘em along to fun events like trying on dresses and tasting cocktails, but they don’t need to be by your side while you and your fiancé(e) draft seating plans and choose aisle markers.

Don’t be afraid to speak your mind
Your friend may need a reminder that she’s not the captain of this ship - you are. If she starts taking your spot in the limelight, kindly ask her to take a step back. Instead of turning into a bridezilla yourself and demanding a new attitude from her, keep calm and be kind. As the saying goes, you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar.

Ask her to take a breather
At this point you’ve probably figured out that weddings are mentally and emotionally taxing. Taking a day or two off from the excitement of wedding planning may be just what the doctor ordered for your overbearing pal. Kindly ask your friend to take a hiatus from Pinterest and step away from envelope stuffing for a few days to recalibrate.

Remember that it’s coming from a place of love
The reason that your friend is turning into a bit of a maidzilla is because she wants your big day to be perfect. Yes, her antics may be annoying at times, but she’s only acting like this because she loves you.

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