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You've been picked! Whether it was with a teary "I can't do this without you" or a surprise box full of sparkly stuff and chocolate, congrats, you're officially a bridesmaid. And not just any bridesmaid, an Egyptian one. That means you're in for a wild ride full of love, traditions, loud music, and so many WhatsApp group messages. Wondering what you actually have to do? Grab your drink, and let's get into it.
1. You're Her Ride-or-Die (with a Planner App)
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Think of yourself as the bride's emotional support system crossed with her personal assistant—but make it glam. You're there to help her plan, keep her sane, and tell her (gently) when she's being a little dramatic about the flower colours. In a nutshell, don't ghost the group chat, answer her calls, and try not to roll your eyes if she changes the theme for the third time.
2. Henna Night = Full-On Girl Gang Vibes
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It's not just some pre-wedding gathering; it's a whole mood. Get ready to dance, sing, and possibly help the bride change her multiple (possibly belly-dancing) outfits for the night. Make sure she's glowing, hyped, and has the prettiest henna in the room. Bring backup safety pins and some tissues for when grandma starts crying, and maybe wear something you won't mind getting glitter all over.
3. Yes, You'll Probably Be Wearing Matching Dresses
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This isn't the time to go rogue with your own fashion show. The bride will most likely choose the dress style and colour for the whole squad—and yes, sometimes it's a bit extra. But hey, it's not your wedding. Smile, sashay, and own it. Bonus points if you help the other girls get ready and stop anyone from doing last-minute dress swaps.
4. Katb El Ketab Chaos
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Whether it's at a mosque or a hall, the Katb El Ketab is where things get official. You might be helping the bride into her dress, calming her nerves, or sneaking her water during the signing. Expect chaos. Expect shouting. Expect aunties asking why you're not next. Your job? Keep her calm, hold her belongings, and deflect nosy questions like a queen.
5. Zaffa Madness: Be Her Wedding-Day Wingwoman
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The zaffa (grand entrance) is THE moment. Whether it's traditional drums, a saxophonist, or a full-on Dabke squad, the energy is electric, and the bride needs her squad glowing and pumped beside her. Help with her train, fix her veil, and, for the love of all things sparkly, make sure she doesn't trip on those heels.
6. Be the Emergency Kit Legend
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Every Egyptian wedding has that one bridesmaid who saves the day with a pack of tissues, safety pins, lipstick, and Panadol. Be that girl. Keep a tiny clutch of just-in-case items, and make sure the bride knows you've got her back. Someone's press-on nails falling off? You've got glue. Dress zipper broke? You've got magic fingers. Mummy is panicking? You've got mint tea and a soft voice.
7. Dance Floor = Your Time to Shine
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Let's be honest, Egyptian weddings are half about the ceremony and half about the dance floor. So once the music starts, don't be shy. Pull the bride into the action, get grandma up for a twirl, and create the party she's dreamed of. And yes, you will end up barefoot at some point if you do not switch your heels with sneakers early on in the party.
8. Don't Disappear After the Wedding
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After all the lights are out and everyone's eaten their body weight from the buffet, she'll still need you. Whether it's helping her pack for the honeymoon, sorting out dress returns, or whatever has left panicking before she heads to her honeymoon, just stay close because being a bridesmaid isn't just about one day. It's about showing up for your girl before, during, and after her biggest day.
You don't have to be perfect. You don't need to know every wedding rule or be a wedding planner in disguise. Just show up, stay kind, and be all in. You'll laugh, cry, eat too much, and maybe even dodge a few proposals yourself. It's all part of the ride.
