A bride's detailed 'bridesmaid contract,' reportedly requiring attendees to sign off on a list of strict conditions, has resurfaced online, igniting widespread controversy. The document outlines numerous demands, including stipulations on weight gain, alcohol consumption, hair changes, and even a request concerning bridesmaids' sexual activity.
According to the notes, the contract was presented to the bride's eight bridesmaids, who were expected to agree to its terms before the wedding day. While beginning with expressions of gratitude, the document quickly established a series of unusual requirements.
Key stipulations included a mandate for bridesmaids to attend all bridal events unless prevented by extreme weather. They were also required to wear designated attire and accessories without alteration to ensure a uniform appearance. A particularly contentious rule stated that bridesmaids should not gain more than 7 pounds (3 kilograms) to avoid looking 'plump in the photos.' The bride cited concerns about future archival images as the reason for this clause.
Further conditions addressed personal appearance, with bridesmaids needing to seek approval from the bride before making any significant changes to their hair. Even the use of wigs or extensions was subject to discussion to prevent the bride from having a negative reaction on the wedding day.
The contract also included a clause requesting bridesmaids to avoid unsafe sex for three months prior to the wedding, unless already pregnant. The bride reportedly provided several reasons for this, including the cost and difficulty of altering or replacing dresses for a pregnant bridesmaid and concerns that a pregnancy could make the wedding photos appear 'lopsided.'
Bridesmaids were also expected to assist with various tasks throughout the wedding weekend, from venue setup and dressing the bride to gathering guests for photographs and monitoring the bride's makeup. Post-celebration duties included helping to pack away wedding items. They were also instructed to maintain a fresh appearance at all times due to the possibility of cameras being present.
Alcohol consumption was also regulated, with bridesmaids permitted a maximum of five units of alcohol at the pre-wedding dinner due to the early start on the wedding day. Once their bridesmaid dresses were on, they were expected to remain wearing them for the duration of the event, with comfort shoe swaps being the only permitted alteration. The contract concluded with a stern warning against outshining the bride, humorously stating, 'I WILL not attempt to outdo the bride in any way because I value my life!'
While some clauses were perceived as lighthearted, many online commentators expressed strong disapproval, particularly regarding the weight and pregnancy-related rules. Criticisms focused on the bride's perceived vanity and the controlling nature of the demands. Some users noted similar clauses in other disclosed bridesmaid contracts, while others engaged in humor, suggesting ways to circumvent or humorously comply with the stipulations.