When your bridesmaid has to step out of the bridal lineup, no matter what the reason, she's most likely going to be very worried about what people will think about her. You may be the coolest bride ever, giving her the Out With Options, but other people are going to think she's a bad friend or cousin, or they're going to know she's short on money, or they're going to figure out that she's struggling in med school, or that she's in a depression...the anxiety can spin out of control.

So as the awesome bride you are, assure her that you won't share any details of her situation with anyone. If the gossips out there want to wonder what her story is, they're going to chat about her, but they're not getting the juicy details from you.

Even if you're mad about her stepping out of the bridal party just a few months before the wedding, resist the urge to vent to other friends, don't participate in a gossip firestorm, and let your friend save face. When the other bridesmaids start chirping about her, just say, "There's nothing to figure out about why (former bridesmaid) stepped out. This is just what's best, so let's move onward and start looking for a style of shoe for you all to wear." You can also shut them up by saying, "Seriously, we've lost too much time to this topic already, so let's get back to having fun and planning your bouquets."

You all get to return to Planning in Peace, and you have rescued your own wedding experience from the lure of gossip. Nicely done!

Ger your copy of "The Bride's Survival Guide' here.