How to bribe your bridesmaids with gifts, trips, and good vibes

Operation "Bribesmaid" begins. No, not finalising the décor or finding a mehendi artist that doesn't ghost you. We’re talking about recruiting your bridesmaids. Because being part of the bride tribe isn’t just about walking down the aisle with a basket of rose petals anymore, it’s a commitment—emotional, financial and occasionally spiritual (shoutout to your MIL-to-be’s tantrums). And as much as they love you, your besties need incentives.

Sure, they’re thrilled you’ve found your soulmate. They’re even ready to ugly cry at your pheras and send daily affirmations when the lehenga fittings feel personal. But that doesn’t mean they signed up for a three-month unpaid internship involving dance practices, beauty timelines, and tissue duty during breakdowns over blouse borders. Let’s be honest—between their full-time jobs, situationships, and mental health journeys, your friends need more than “because I love you” to say yes.

Welcome to your guide to building your "Bribesmaid" army.

Step 1: Lead with the dream (a.k.a. bachelorette in Barcelona)

Start strong. When you pop the “Will you be my bridesmaid?” question, don’t let it stand alone. Pair it with something outrageous and irresistible—like a European bachelorette that promises Aperol, sunsets and zero spreadsheets. Think Amalfi. Think Mykonos. Think “We’ll never forget this trip, even if we don’t remember it.”

The keyword is “abroad.” If you’re still pushing Goa, be prepared to sweeten the deal with unlimited wardrobe allowance.

Step 2: Gift them like you mean it

These women will be steaming your dupatta at 2 am, soothing your makeup meltdown, and pretending to enjoy the choreo WhatsApp group. They need compensation. Enter: silk PJs. Monogrammed, of course. Add a custom tote, mini skincare kits, and maybe a scented candle that smells like peace.

Don’t skimp. You’re buying loyalty, not just appreciation.

Step 3: Give them a glam moment

Let your bridesmaids feel like stars, not stylists. Give them the freedom to choose their own outfits within a palette, throw in an MUA on call, or plan a dedicated glam hour before events.

You need them smiling in all the photos. Treat them like influencers on a PR trip. Because technically, they are.

Step 4: Food, footwear and fuss-free schedules

Nothing tests friendship like hunger, heels, and heat. Make sure your girl gang is well-fed (hello, snack carts), allowed to wear juttis (no questions asked), and isn’t summoned at 6 am for a 9 pm event.

Minimise chaos. Maximise champagne. That’s how Bribesmaids are born.

The grand finale

Being a bridesmaid is a labour of love. But with the right perks, it can feel like a paid holiday—emotionally, at least. So go ahead, bribe with style. Throw in a handwritten note, a customised playlist, or a reel-worthy reveal box. At the end of the day, it’s not manipulation—it’s bridal diplomacy.

And hey, what are girls for if not being by your side on your big day, bribed or unbribed.

Lead image: Aaliyah Kashyap/Instagram 

Inside images: Pexels

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