The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markel, decided not to have an official maid of honor to avoid tension in her tight knit circle of friends.
Weddings bring out the “crazy” in people, craziness from the bride or even the bridal party. Some people choose to remove themselves from the chaos and decline the invitation to participate in the wedding party, but how can you bow out gracefully?
I am offering you my excuses from the many invites that I received over the years. The most polite ways I ave declined a wedding party invite.
“Girl, I just can’t afford a wedding right now."
Recent stats show that the average cost of being a bridesmaid is $1200…yes, $1200! This may include:
the dress; accessories; makeup and hair; travel and accommodations; hosting responsibilities; and finally getting a wedding gift…these can unknowingly add up quickly. This is the easiest way to get out of participating by saying you simply cannot afford to participate.
“Girl, my sister is getting married this year.”
Limiting one’s self to a certain number of weddings a year is a smart move. When I participated in a wedding-I no longer do-I established a life rule of limiting myself to having a prominent role in only one wedding a year. This resolution allows you to clearly explain to the bride that you want to ensure that you are fully invested when you participate and have dedicated your time to another wedding. Also, due to the level of responsibility and the financial obligation these things can bring stress and debt.
“Girl, I just go this new job and it is a lot of travel and work.”
Being a bridesmaid is a honor and a major level of responsibility, if you know that you will not be able to be as dedicated as you think you should be on such a special day, you may politely decline.You would not want to neglect her special time by causing more hassle because you have dropped the ball.
When it comes down to it, you are not mandated to accept the invitation. Hopefully your friendship with the person inviting you is strong enough and mature to withstand this decision.Don’t feel guilty for truly expressing yourself in this situation, in the end you will always feel best expressing your true feelings.
AkilahSiti