How to handle sticky situations with grace, including what to do when you can't afford to buy the dress that the bride wants, you're the only bridesmaid who isn't close with the rest of the girls, and more.
By: Sharon NaylorDilemma: The bride wants one thing for the shower, but her mom wants something completely different, so you're stuck in the middle.
Photo Credit: Chrystal Cienfuegos Photography
Problem Solved:
When moms are included in the bridal shower plans, they often help save the bridesmaids money—that's one perk to keep in mind if she's being a royal pain in the you-know-what. Some moms latch on to the shower because they're not as involved in the wedding plans as they'd like to be, or maybe they're just very enthusiastic by nature.
Your primary loyalty is to the bride, though, so when her mother pushes for something that's completely different from what the bride wants, take a deep breath, be calm and confident, and tell her the bride's wishes that were relayed to you.
What to say: "Even though your idea won't work for the shower, it would be phenomenal for any other parties you're hosting on the wedding weekend!"
Don’t complain to the bride about her mom’s pushiness unless she truly acts out, like calling the caterer to change the menu that you and the other bridesmaids already set. While you want to spare the bride the embarrassment, her mom is more likely to take "no" for an answer if it's coming from her, not from someone she doesn't know that well.
