Listen
If you can bear it, let her vent and get it all out. Weddings are a lot of pressure and she might be holding in steam, struggling to keep both families happy and having to work to a budget. Helping her unload might make for a sweeter bride-to-be.
Bite Your Tongue
Yes she’s being a drama queen, but sometimes, arguing’s not worth the effort. Obviously there are times you have to speak up, but try let a few things slide. It’s her day after all and she’ll (hopefully) only do it once.
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Negotiate
Want to be her bridesmaid but don’t feel like shelling out $500 on a puffball you’ll only wear once? Try to strike a deal. She can still choose the dress, but nudge her towards a cheaper price tag instead. Get the rest of the wedding party on board with this one as well, giving you more support without making bridezilla feel like she’s losing control.
Honesty is (Sometimes) the Best Policy:
If she’s being a Class-A nightmare and you really can’t bear it anymore, tell her, tactfully. If it’s over a bridesmaid’s dress that’s too hideous to dress cattle in, there’s no harm in letting her know that you don’t think it’s right for your body shape. Do it right and she won’t hate you.
Violence is not the Answer
Tempting as it is, a good slap isn’t going to knock any sense into her. Dream of planting her one in your head, instead. Feel better? Thought so.
Distract Her
Chances are, she’s stressed to the max with wedding planning, which is why she’s being such a shrew. Take her mind off all things bridal with a girly night, or perhaps a fun trip away. No wedding talk allowed. It’s probably just the tonic she needs and will remind you all why you’re friends in the first place.
Vent
There’s only so much ‘me, me, me’ we can cope with before we need a good scream. Do yourself a favour and don’t bitch to the wedding party or other people who are close to her - it looks really bad and Cruella de Bride doesn’t deserve that. Have a good vent to someone not involved in the wedding instead. Let it out. All of it.
Just Say No
If she’s really asking too much, put your stilettoed foot down. She might be upset at first, but if she really values your friendship, she’ll listen, move on, and you’ll get to wear/do something you like.
Cut the Cord
If she’s really being unbearable – and we mean you really don't know whether you can keep being friends with her after this – gracefully tell her you think it’s best for your friendship if you don’t take part in her wedding. You still want to go as a guest, but don’t feel you can be in the bridal party anymore. If you’re having to put up with a bridezilla without the reward of being in the wedding party, keep your distance from her until the big day. Then breathe – it’s over!
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