10 Ways to be a Supportive Virtual Bridesmaid

The pandemic put a lot of big celebrations on hold. Birthdays, engagements, weddings, holidays...it started to seem like the joy of being surrounded by the ones we love was an impossibility.  

While I completely understand the difficult choice of postponing big celebrations, that wasn't the solution for every bride and groom during the 2020/21 wedding season. 

In fact, I had the honor of being a bridesmaid in my best friend's California dream wedding, standing by her side all the way on the east coast while seated at my kitchen table. 

I was a virtual bridesmaid. 

Of course, this wasn't the original plan. We had big plans to order dresses, go on a big bachelorette party destination vacation, the whole nine yards. But like so many things last year, plans for her wedding needed to change in order to keep loved ones safe. Despite everything, it turned out to be one of the most beautiful weddings I've ever attended. 

What was it like being a virtual bridesmaid? 

As a bridesmaid, it's our duty to care for the bride and ensure that everything goes as planned (HA!), but is that even possible when you're almost 3,000 miles apart? YES!

Here are 10 ways you can be a supportive bridesmaid even during a pandemic: 

1. Get Ready with the Bride on Zoom

Just as you would in person, it's so important for the bride to be surrounded by her girls as she prepares for her big day. 

Get comfy and dress for the occasion in your matching bridesmaid pajamas! 

Our bride LOVES cheetah print...can't you tell?! This simple, cozy touch joins everyone together no matter how far apart they may be. You all want to be there in person, of course, but dressing similarly gives that all-important feeling of unity. After all, there are few things that a fun pair of jammies can't cure.  

Don't forget to pop the champagne and drink some mimosas! Toast are great if you'd like, but this is really a time to swap stories, compliments, and laughs with the bride. Drink up!

2. Create a Shared Spotify Playlist

Did you know you can allow multiple people to add to a playlist on Spotify?

Create a shared album full of music to listen to while the bride is getting ready. Romantic songs are go-to adds, but be sure to include songs that remind you of the happy couple. 

Is the bride a family member? Add songs you sang together during family karaoke. Former roommates? Be sure to add the songs you sang at the top of your lungs for the whole dormitory floor to hear at 2am. 

Keep it light and fun! I'll admit...I've returned to our playlist many times after the wedding day was well over. So many new (to me) songs from a diverse and amazing group of ladies. It's a good one!

3. Mail a Supportive Card Before the Big Day

Stuff the bride's mailbox with advice and kindness leading up to the big day. Let her know how much she means to you and how amazing her special day will be. After all, you'll be working hard to ensure it's one of the greatest days of her life. Show your support even before your day of bridesmaid's duties begin.  

4. Participate in a Bridesmaid Group Chat

Communicating with bridesmaids all over the country can be a challenge, but it's so important. Sure, you all have things to plan and discuss regarding the wedding, but there's a good chance that you don't know everyone in the bridal party. 

In your group chat, talk about more than just the wedding. The more comfortable you are talking with each other, the more natural Zoom conversations will be on the wedding day. Plus, every bridesmaid is important in the bride's life. What better way to show support for her than to get to know them? 🤍

5. Create a Video from Family and Friends

Compile a bunch of videos from the bride's family and friends to surround them with love! 

I used iMovie to create our video, but I've recently come across an awesome and easy-to-use site called VidHug (not an affiliate). It's a really simple way to contact people and have them upload their own special messages. It's free to invite participants but requires a $15 payment to watch, personalize, and download your video. It would certainly make for a great small gift from all the bridesmaids!

6. Text the Bride "Things to Remember"

The bride has enough to do and remember on the day of her wedding, especially with her bridesmaids scattered around the country. To help keep her on track, text her a list of things to remember that she can check at her convenience.  

Is the bride typically running late? Keep a running list of important times and let her know when she needs to get moving. 

7. Get Fancy for the Virtual Ceremony

Put on that dress you have hanging in the back of your closet. Pull out your makeup bag and those sparkly earrings you have hiding deep in your pre-quarantine drawers. Show the bride you're all in for her. Even from behind the computer camera, you're wedding-ready. 

8. Take A TON of Pictures

Screenshots are a girl's best friend here! Sure, the bride may have professional photos taken that day, but who doesn't love a few sneak peek shots? You may not be there in person, but there are still plenty of special moments you can capture for the happy couple. 

9. Celebrate on Social Media

In addition to sharing photos from the day, dig deep into your pictures to find special memories you've shared with the bride. 

Break out those wine nights, crazy college days, or (better yet) embarrassing childhood pictures. Pair them with kind words and stickers to celebrate the big day!

10. Always Be There, No Matter the Distance

Being a virtual bridesmaid has it's challenges, but none compare to the emotional rollercoaster virtual brides experience. 

Your most important job is to be a shoulder to lean on and a sounding board for the bride all throughout her wedding planning journey. This may not be the style of wedding she originally dreamed of, but you can help make the day just as special. No matter the distance, you are her greatest support system.