The bride never clearly communicated her expectations or needs to the bridesmaid. The bridesmaid offered help, but the bride did not provide any direction or specific tasks. It's unfair to blame the bridesmaid for not fulfilling responsibilities that were never clearly defined. The bride's lack of communication is the root cause of this misunderstanding.
The bridesmaid's initial offer of help seems insincere, given the lack of follow-through. While the bride could have communicated more clearly, the bridesmaid should have taken more initiative to inquire about specific needs. The bridesmaid's excuse of being busy with grad school and work doesn't excuse a complete lack of involvement in a friend's wedding. It appears the bridesmaid prioritized her own convenience over supporting her friend.
The bride's failure to communicate specific needs or delegate tasks is a significant oversight. However, the bridesmaid's initial offer of help carries some weight, and a more proactive approach to inquire about wedding preparations would have been appropriate. The lack of clear communication from the bride contributed more significantly to the conflict.