Your “bestest” has asked you to stand up with her—so now what? That’s exactly what happened to San Francisco–based freelance writer Kate Chynoweth, so she went to work researching the role and gathered all her tips and must-dos in this handy book, The Bridesmaid Guide: Modern Advice on Etiquette, Parties, and Being Fabulous (Chronicle Books, $14.95). The newly revised version covers all the nitty-gritty, from the bridal shower to the bachelorette party to the wedding speech and everything in between. Sift through cool themes for showers and parties, from spa days to personalized themes like the preppy “Wear Your Whites” bridal shower or the “Time Capsule” bachelorette party, which takes the bride down memory lane. And there’s plenty of practical advice, too, such as what is expected in the gift department (you don’t have to bring one to every shower) and how to budget your dollars to cover all the expectations, i.e., parties, dresses, accessories and more. Whether you are a type-A bride who wants everything to go just so or a bridesmaid lost in the engagement ring glare, this book is for you.
