Freaking out!

[BountyBop]

So I'm maid of honour for one of my closest friends this weekend, the first time I've ever been part of a wedding party!

I know for some people this would be nothing, but as it gets closer I'm getting so nervous!!! I'm a pretty socially awkward person, and absolutely hate the thought of people looking at me....I'm dreading beyond words walking down the aisle.

I mentioned this to the bride when we were all together the other day, in a light hearted, jokey way, but also looking for some reassurance - one of the bridemaids basically shut me down saying it will only be a few minutes, and it's not about me, people will be looking at the bride.

Yes I know that! Helpful! 🙄

Anyone more confident than me got any advice for how to stay calm and get through it? I would actually like to enjoy it, but its definitely got my anxiety racing!

Will there be a rehearsal?

@TwoManyKids No rehearsal 😬

I felt like this every time I’ve been a bridesmaid (3 times); mainly you want shoes you can walk in without feeling unsteady and the bridesmaid is right that everyone will be looking beyond you at the bride so I wouldn’t worry too much. It’s over quickly and then you can enjoy the rest of the wedding

I don't think it's very fair to put your anxiety on the bride and seek reassurance from her, which is probably why the other bm shut you down.
Maybe do some calming, meditative exercises in your head beforehand, which you can revisit as you walk. It really takes no time at all to walk down the aisle.
Are you doing a speech or anything like that?

Have you picked your shoe? A block heel might be ideal?

I'm a wedding registrar. Here are my top tips for nervous wedding party participants. Obviously when asked I frame this more softly, but here it is a little more rough:

1. You are like the olive and nuts snack selection served before the main course. Nice to have but no one really pays much attention to. If there are other members of the bridal party, you'll just blend in.
2. The aisle (unless a very big church) is likely to actually be quite short and therefore less than a few mins walk.
3. If you don't know where to look, keep your eyes up front at the groom/registrar.
4. Your job up the aisle is only to walk, and then sit down when told. You've been doing that your whole life no problems.

1. Have a selection of small talk ready in your head for after the wedding.