Roles & Duties of the Bridesmaids & Maid of Honor

You’ve gotten engaged and have asked close family and friends to be a part of your wedding day! Now is the time to clarify the responsibilities of your bridesmaids and Maid of Honor, more specifically, what you expect from them and the assistance you will need. There are some traditional roles for these girls and I suggest tailoring the following list of responsibilities to your wedding and what you’re comfortable with.

Traditionally, before the wedding, the bridesmaid(s) is part of the emotional support team for the bride, helps the bride with pre-wedding tasks, such as addressing invitations, making wedding favors and running other such errands. They help shop for and may help choose the bridesmaids dress; but remember, this isn’t your wedding day, so you won’t necessarily get to wear the dress that you would have liked. You’re required to attend all pre-wedding parties, and don’t forget to collaborate with the maid of honor to plan and host the bridal shower or bachelorette party. Keep in mind that the party you would like, may not be what the bride would want; have a party that SHE would love! Before the bridal shower and as soon as the couple has registered, subtly let guests know where the engaged couple is registered or send a general e-mail to those they have invited to the wedding. Pay for your own bridesmaids gown and accessories, unless the bride insists on paying for this herself; if she has not mentioned it, offer to pay for it yourself. Ensure that you are available for and attend all gown fittings and rehearsals, contribute to a gift for the couple from all the bridal party, but also give a separate gift to the married couple. Last, but certainly not least, conduct yourself in a positive and constructive manner throughout the wedding planning process, even in stressful times. Remember, this is their wedding day and you’ve been chosen because they love you and want your support; so be as supportive as you can.

As the Maid of Honor, you will assist in the above mentioned areas, much like the bridesmaids, but you will also be responsible for helping the bride with all the minute details, from addressing envelopes to helping make final preparations, if she asks this of you. You might also be asked to help the bride choose the bridal party’s attire and arrange gown fittings before and on the day of the wedding. Most importantly, the Maid of Honor acts as the bridge in relationships, helping all the girls get along with one another even during the most stressful times. This includes maintaining a positive, focused and supportive outlook throughout the planning process. Consider your role as the “Lead” of the bridesmaids and the one that will help things run smoothly, should relationships or events start to unravel.

Well best of luck girls and in the meantime, if I can be of any assistance, feel free to drop me a line at bridalsolutions@xplornet.com.
Happy Planning!

Liz B.
Bridal Solutions Wedding Planning & Event Production