Make Money as a Professional Bridesmaid

I love hearing about unique home business ideas, and I know you guys do as well. This past week I was able to chat with Jen Glantz. Jen has carved out a unique niche for herself. She gets paid to be a professional bridesmaid! How cool is that?

You may already be familiar with other work-from-home opportunities in the wedding industry. You can become an event or wedding planner. You can handcraft wedding favors or invitations. You can even make money reselling wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses. But, getting paid to be a bridesmaid is something truly unique.

What Services do Professional Bridesmaid Perform?

We have all heard the phrase, “always a bridesmaid, never a bride.” Some lucky folks find themselves in those Maid of Honor shoes more often than most. If you have ever been a Maid of Honor for one of your besties, you know this gig comes with a lot more responsibility and financial obligations than you originally anticipated. You need to plan a shower, keep a record of incoming gifts, keep all of those other bridesmaids in line, shopping, write a speech… It’s tough doing that local, imagine handling these tasks long distance.

Jen found herself in this high-pressure role a lot. At one time she was even asked to be a bridesmaid in two weddings on the same day. As a result, she knew the ins and outs of a wedding. She knew there had to be many brides and bridesmaids out there who could use her expertise. There’s a big gap between what a wedding planner takes care of and the finished product. So, she started Bridesmaid for Hire. Jen’s service takes care of a lot of the traditional bridesmaid’s duties – and more – allowing the bride and her favorite ladies to simply enjoy the day. After an overwhelming response to a simple Craigslist ad, she knew she’d hit gold.

Jen’s business offers several packages for brides and bridesmaids in need of help. She offers both in-personal and virtual packages. Jen has plans to grow, too. Since she opened her Become a Pro page, she has had over 8,000 applicants! (You can apply here.)

What Skills Do I Need to Get Paid to Be a Bridesmaid?

Exceptional organization and customer service skills are a must. Your job is to make sure the bride is happy and stress-free. You also need to have a strong attention to detail. The details are your job after all! You aren’t booking venues and DJs. You may be shopping for dresses, organizing RSVPs, and buying favors for a bachelorette party.

Isn’t the Wedding Industry Really Seasonal?

Most of us consider the spring and summer as wedding months. When I asked Jen about the seasonality of running a business in the wedding industry, she had some great advice. Jen said to never allow yourself to think of your business as seasonal – no matter what kind of business it is. There is always work to be done, and every business owner should be diversifying. Jen said during slower periods she ramps up marketing, creates info products and online courses, and more.

Jen had more great advice for those considering a home business – START NOW. There is never going to be a perfect time. Get started and figure it out. She also says don’t quit your day job just yet. Work your business part-time until you can replace your income.

Jen also recommends “shaking things up.” Regardless of the industry, you want to get involved in, carve out your niche. There are a lot of people making money from the wedding industry, but not a lot of people doing what she’s doing. That creates excitement and demand.