The good news is: your best gal is finally getting hitched and has asked you to be her bridesmaid. The bad news is: because of life (finances, work, health, etc.) you simply can't make it to the wedding. We know it's rough so we've gathered our best suggestions and favorite products to help soften the blow and say, "#wishIwasthere" without becoming overwhelmed by guilt.
1. Be upfront: When the invitations arrive and you realize you can't make the big day, let the couple know ASAP. Provide a concise and honest response as to why you will be unable to attend and offer a time to further discuss the decision, if necessary.
Skip the text or FB message on this one and opt for an old school phone or face-to-face conversation.
STATIONARY | 4 LOVE POLKA DOTS
Try this: "You two have always been great to me and I really wish I could make it but, I've got overlapping deadlines at work and no time off reserved. I'd love to make it up to ya'll post-honeymoon. Maybe dinner on me when you're free?"
2. Be Proactive: If you can't make it, you can't make it. Missing the wedding doesn't necessarily mean missing out on the friendship. Attend the other wedding-related activities or even offer to plan events with the couple after the wedding.
Try this: throw a gown shower! Make it small, simple, and magical like the bridal gown event we hosted with lovelies over at Lovely Bride.
3. Shower support: Just because you're physically distant doesn't mean you have to be emotionally distant. Show your friend how important your friendship is by showering her from afar. A pre-recorded video or surprise basket of your favorite items can mean the world before walking down the aisle.
PHOTO | EMILY MILLAY
4.Gifts, Please: Speaking of gifts....If you don't attend the wedding you don't technically have to give a gift but, if the bride/groom are important to you, sending a cute/quirky/sentimental gift can really help set the tone for the day and say 'I care; hate that I missed it.'
PHOTO | COPYPASTRY
PERSONALIZED FLASK | BLUDOG DESIGNS
Try this: send a special token via mail for the bride and/or groom - a telegram, fresh flowers, fruit, a handwritten note or even these adorable custom couple cookie cutters. Bonus points if you bake cookies and send those as well!