@kaleyfromkansas, @adrianamoraisphotography
Congratulations, you have been chosen as the maid of honor! Well, what exactly does that mean? Simply put, a maid of honor is the most important bridesmaid at a marriage ceremony. Traditionally the bride appoints a female relative or best friend for that position. The maid of honor plans the bridal shower and bachelorette party, manages guests, and assists the bride whenever it is required. Safe to say, the maid of honor is a real jack of all trades. Yes, it is challenging but totally worth it. Still confused? Here are 10 duties the maid of honor is in charge of.
Be the bride’s helping hand
Your number one duty is to be there for the bride before the wedding and during the celebration itself. The maid of honor is second in command, so be ready to guide your best friend whenever she asks for help. This could be anything! Tasks may vary from putting invitations together and talking through color schemes to choosing cake decor. Major decisions are usually on the bride and her wedding planner, however, as the maid of honor, provide your suggestions, and don’t hesitate to give your own thoughts.
Attend wedding dress shopping
Already used to going on a shopping spree together with your friends and sharing pictures from the dressing rooms? This one is for you then. Though wedding dress choosing is quite an intimate process, some brides feel more comfortable with besties around. So don't be surprised if you are asked to join the bride on her shopping journey.
Plan and host a bridal shower
Hosting a bridal shower also falls on the maid of honor’s shoulders. You will be in charge of picking a venue, ordering catering, sending invitations, and managing other sometimes not-so-exciting tasks (like writing down all the gifts received at the party). Yes, it is a serious job, but don’t try to do everything by yourself. Remember: other bridesmaids are willing to help as much as you do, so delegate some duties to the rest of the team.
Plan a bachelorette party
As the maid of honor, it’s your responsibility to throw an unforgettable bachelorette party. Always keep in mind that planning the perfect girls-only getaway is not all rainbows and unicorns, but indeed hard work. The maid of honor needs to discuss important party-related details with the bride. Does she want a bachelorette party close to her home or a destination one? What will the event size be? These aspects are essential for venue choosing and logistics. Sounds scary, we know, but when there is a powerful team beside you, anything is possible.
Be the peacemaker
Being the leader, the maid of honor not only connects bridesmaids but also is in charge of conflict solving if some disagreement occurs. Indeed, divided opinions and different views on the wedding-planning process inside the bridal support team might become the reason for unnecessary drama. Let everyone turn to you with any questions, comments, or concerns if they have one. The maid of honor should listen to everyone attentively, stay out of trouble and maintain peace among the team. The key to a successful wedding celebration is understanding.
Help the bride get dressed
Hurrah! The big day has come, and now it is the time to get ready. Traditionally, the bride and the maid of honor dress together. The reason is obvious. The maid of honor helps the bride to get into the wedding dress and assists with some hair and makeup arrangements if needed. It's not a small task and, to tell you the truth, one of the trickiest. The bride and every little detail about her should be picture-perfect. Remember: there is no time for last-minute decisions, so everything should be laid out and ready in advance, from jewelry to the gown.
Be the bride’s spokesperson
The unofficial spokesperson for the bride — this will be one of your responsibilities as the maid of honor during the wedding celebration. You will have to convey important messages and handle some situations on your friend’s behalf. The last thing the bride wants to do during such a big day is to deal with vendors and guests. So everything will be under your control! Make sure to have all important contacts saved on your phone. By doing so it will be easier to get in touch with key people involved in the event.
Provide emotional support
Marriage is a big step for the bride. That is why it is so important for the maid of honor to be a reliable source of positive energy and support system for the bride before and during the celebration. Let your best friend know you are available whenever she needs to pour her emotions out. The maid of honor is a bride’s safe space and a shoulder to cry on. However, try to be supportive without being overbearing. Otherwise, it might turn against you. At the celebration, keep the bride calm and remind her to always stay hydrated!
Give a speech
Not everyone is into public speaking. However, sometimes the maid of honor has to give either a reading or a heartfelt speech. So be ready! First, show gratitude to the couple for giving you the opportunity to play a significant role in their wedding. Then, if it is okay, tell funny stories related to the bride. Here’s the tip: try to keep your speech simple and sweet, avoiding awkward situations. Talk about how you came to know the bride, what memories you share, and what are her best qualities as a friend.
@jackhenryphoto, @maloriekerouac
Make sure you are having fun too
Good job! You worked hard before and at the celebration, so now you deserve to enjoy the party to the fullest. The bride is surely proud of you and will treasure every moment you have spent with her during the big day. Eat, drink, dance, and don’t forget to pat yourself on the head!
