1. Don't Get Caught up in Gossip

2. Plan Events Well in Advance

New Year's Eve is just around the corner, so there is no time like the present to start thinking about those resolutions. If you are a bridesmaid this upcoming wedding season, it's also a great time to develop a game plan for mastering your new position.

3. Be a Supportive Friend

Photo Credit: Dabble Me This

4. Avoid Making Negative Comments About the Dress

It's often comical how being a bridesmaid can go hand-in-hand with drama. Whether people are jealous of the bride, unfamiliar with basic email etiquette, or are simply too busy to help out, bridesmaids frequently create plenty of gossip-worthy material. It's easy to get annoyed when you suddenly have to dedicate a chunk of your free time to people you may not know well (or even dislike). This year though, vow not to sweat the small stuff! Keep in mind that your best friend is getting married and that you will love being a part of her big day.

5. Don't be Afraid to Suggest Cost-Cutting Tips

Don't let your bridesmaid responsibilities sneak up on you! Things will be much less stressful (and potentially cheaper) if you plan in advance. Talk to the bride and the rest of the bridal party early on so that you can lock down dates for the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. You want to make sure that everyone can attend. When it comes to the bachelorette party, be sure to check out the party planner tool on The Bach so that you can quickly find amazing venues and easily coordinate with your guests.

It's no secret that planning a wedding frequently creates a lot of stress. The bride will be juggling a lot of tasks while trying to please two families. Make sure you check in with her to see if you can lend a helping hand. Taking the time to listen and offer advice will likely be a huge help to her, and will only strengthen your friendship!

It's never fun being told what to wear. When you agree to be a bridesmaid though, that typically means you will need to purchase a dress that the bride chooses. Complaining about this tradition though will only lead to drama and hurt feelings. Instead, trust that the bride has a vision in mind for the wedding day, and that you will love being involved in the celebration, no matter what you are wearing.

Between the gifts, the dress, the bridal shower and the bachelorette party, the total cost can easily add up. If you are feeling completely overwhelmed by your bridesmaid expenses, don't be embarrassed to talk to the bride or the other bridesmaids about the situation. Avoid simply complaining about the costs though, and instead look to offer solutions to the problem. Suggest organizing group gifts or budget-friendly bachelorette party activities. Need ideas? Head here for creative tips for streamlining the bachelorette party expenses.