Bridezilla Q & A with Bridal Guide Expert

Q: Hi, my name is Alicia and I am getting married on August 25th, 2007 at 5 p.m. So far it has been good, but all my bridesmaids and fiance think I’m controlling and I am a mess. They said I want everything my way. That’s true. I want a nice wedding. Technically I just need them to follow rules: no one can get pregnant or fatter than they are currently before my wedding, and everyone has to have their hair the way I want. I want them to have their nails the same way. Everything has to be uniform and done in a proper manner. Is that too much to ask for?
Alicia, Bewildered Bridezilla
A: “The best bridezillas know how to control their wedding to end up with the vision they want without alienating their friends and family. Rather than issue obvious commands, take the subtle approach to get the same results. For example, if you want your bridesmaids to have matching manicures-take them out for a bridal team mani a day or two before the wedding instead of doing a traditional bridesmaids luncheon. Hair is very personal, so pick a general hair “look” (sleek and polished, loose and carefree, whatever) rather than a specific style, or perhaps designate identical hair accessories that they can then use how they like. Generally uniform is good, Stepford bridesmaids is not. Want to encourage them to stay the same size? Get a move on, get the dresses fitted and be done with it. They’ll automatically strive to fit the dress they already have. The only thing even a top bridezilla can’t control is family planning. You can ask someone not to walk down the aisle if you must, but you can’t tell ’em not to procreate,” said Lisa Dickens, Bridal Guide Magazine.
For other tough wedding planning and etiquette issues, check out www.bridalguide.com.