Hi all, I’m Katelin. I write a blog that although is called gorgeous footsteps in the sand… that rarely talks about the sand or feet or footsteps but rather my life adventures, some wedding planning and random Hollywood stories. I got engaged almost a year ago and the big day is coming up on August 28th. So far we’ve checked a lot of things off of our list and I’ve shared a lot my wedding developments on my personal blog as well as on The Bridal Bloggettes. It’s been a great time so far and I can’t wait for it all to come together!

Nationwide Bridal Party

What do you do about dresses when your bridal party isn’t all in the same place? I saw this topic over on a forum at The Knot and I figured I’d bring my answer here instead.

I knew from day one this was going to be an issue for me. Like I mentioned before, I have seven bridesmaids and only three of them are in the same city, let alone state as me. The other four are in Arizona, North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania. On top of being all over the place, all seven ladies have very different body shapes and types. Some are relatively short (under 5′5″) whereas others are like me and over 5′9″. Not only was location and height an issue, but not everyone is super thin or has big boobs so I didn’t think the same dress would look good on everyone.

So my solution? I got navy blue ribbon from Michael’s that was the color I wanted the ladies to wear (looking back now I should have gotten an actual fabric swatch, but hey I was a newbie and didn’t know any better) and sent a piece to each of my bridesmaids. The only guidelines I set were to get a dress that went to the knees and was as close to the navy blue as possible and if need be go darker instead of brighter.

I know it’s sort of crazy because I’ll have no idea what they all look like until they show up for the wedding but I’m not worried and quite frankly I think it’ll be unique. Also, I think this way each girl can get whatever dress she wants (and will hopefully legitimately have use for it again someday) and determine their own budget and feel comfortable and happy at the wedding. Yes, I know it’s “my day” so to speak, but that doesn’t mean that everyone else deserves to look and feel good as well.

And so far to date, four dresses have been purchased and I’ve loved all of them and I can’t wait to see what the rest of my bridal party will look like.

Is your bridal party all over the place as well? What was your solution?

{excerpt from The Bridal Bloggettes}

Thanks for sharing Katelin!

{Matt + Katelin}

Share on Facebook

Polished Party: Silk halter is a excellent choice for the fashion-forward bride. Thick hem and gathered neckline are simple additions that make this dress distinct.

Tiers of Joy: Layers of crinkle chiffon add volume without drowning the maid. A contrasting bow for a pop of color.

V is for Vivacious: V-neck makes a modest swoop and finishes sweetly with a bow.

Bubble Yum: Crinkle chiffon folds into a slight bubble hem, adding a bit of oomph.

Simple Structure: Vertical pleating offers a stylish twist on the mermaid silhouette. Ruched bodice and embellished belt make this a strong fashion declaration.

Cotton Candy: Punchy and bold candy inspired palette make a stand-up statement.

Lean and Green:  A sensible empire silhouette with ruffled neckline detail. Flowy  chiffon makes it a fresh and spring-ready dress.

Grecian Goddess: Heavenly draping adds softness to this floor length concoction.

It may be hard to find a dress that suits all your maids body types, but being flexible in style and perhaps the shades of color will allow for more options. Thus, making your bridesmaids happy, because nobody wants a bridesmaid with a sour face in the pictures.

Share on Facebook

Stay clear of “Bridesmaid” or “Matron of Honor” titled items. After the wedding, your girlfriends will never use that item again. However, monogrammed items are a classy way to personalize an item. This collection of handmade gifts found on Etsy feature gift ideas for your gals that will be used over and over again.

Pretty Pashima: Find your bridesmaid’s favorite color! Rich and vibrant colors are found in this little shop. Delicate and soft, a perfect way to wrap up the ones you love. Ideal – The Classic Gal (Classy Wedding; $18)

Clutch in Time: Fashionable and pretty, yet it hold all your necessities for a perfect night out. Hardy canvas and vinyl to handle any liquid situation it may run in to. Ideal – The Practical Gal (Tenth Street Saks; $14)

Good as Gold: These gold plated leaf earrings are flashy and fun. Show her you appreciate her and dangle these beauties from your bridesmaid ears. Ideal – The Diva (Yeah Hello; $14)

The Write Gift: Environmentally friendly papers are bound in this attractive journal. Your bridesmaid will be writing all her sweet memories from your wedding in this handmade booklet. Ideal – The Creative Gal (Journalistic Tendency; $15)

Top Tank: The hand crafted ruffles are perfect for your girly-girls. A touch of whimsy makes this tank cotton tank a special reminder of your day. Ideal – The Fashionista (Everyday Fairytale; $28)

Chunky Monkey: Keep your bridesmaid cozy and warm with this long and thick scarf. A perfect choice for the upcoming winter months. Ideal – The Hip Collegiate (Save Our Home; $20)

What do you think? I personally want all six for my own. Have you thought of something creative or personal? Share your ideas!

Share on Facebook