The Role of a Bridesmaid

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is a beautiful honour and a testament to the closeness you share with the bride. But it also comes with a variety of responsibilities that can make a big impact on the wedding day and the overall planning process. If you've just been asked to be a bridesmaid, or you're about to ask your besties to join you in this role, here's a breakdown of what to expect, from duties to helpful tips!

Photo: Austin Kylie Photography

Emotional Support

One of the most important duties as a bridesmaid is to be the emotional support system for the bride. Weddings can bring a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, stress, nervousness, and joy—and being there to listen, comfort, and encourage the bride is invaluable. Whether it's calming her nerves during a tough planning moment or simply celebrating the happy milestones along the way, your presence and positive energy are key.

Help with Wedding Planning

Depending on the bride’s preferences, bridesmaids may assist with various aspects of wedding planning. This could involve dress shopping, organizing wedding-related events like bridal showers or bachelorette parties, giving input on decor or themes or helping with DIY projects. It’s important to remember that this help should be supportive and not overwhelming for the bride—offer your assistance, but always respect her vision.

Pro Tip: Create a group chat with the other bridesmaids to stay organized and communicate about key events or tasks. Being on the same page will help ensure everything runs smoothly!

Keep it Drama-Free

Avoid any complaints or negativity through the wedding planning and on the wedding day. It's all about celebrating the couple, so maintain a positive, supportive attitude. Drama and stress can detract from the joy of the occasion, so focus on being a calm and enthusiastic part of the celebration.

Photo: Brittany Mahood Photography

Assist in Dress Shopping

Bridesmaids often play a role in helping the bride find the dress and selecting their own bridesmaid dresses. It's an exciting moment, but it can also be a bit overwhelming for the bride. Be honest with your opinions while remaining supportive of her final decision, and be flexible when it comes to choosing your own dress. Bridesmaid dresses should complement the wedding’s colour palette and theme, but they should also make you feel comfortable and beautiful.

Pro Tip: Keep alterations in mind when budgeting for your dress and make sure to order early to avoid rush fees or delays.

Attend or Help Plan the Bachelorette Party & Bridal Shower

The maid of honour typically takes the lead in planning the bridal shower and bachelorette party, but bridesmaids are often expected to assist with the planning and preparation. Whether it's helping to secure an activity, arranging the games, booking a reservation or contributing to the cost, being involved in these celebratory events is part of your role. Remember to make the bride feel special and plan an event she’ll truly enjoy, whether that’s a wild night out or a cozy gathering with close friends.

Attend the Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner

Show up for the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner to practice for the big day and bond with the wedding party. This time is crucial for understanding the flow of the ceremony and spending quality time with other members of the wedding party.

Photo: Camryn Elizabeth Photography

Day-Of Duties

On the wedding day, the bridesmaids are essential in ensuring things run smoothly. Here are some key responsibilities:

• Getting ready: Spend the morning with bride as you all get your makeup, hair done, and help the bride get dressed.

• Keeping calm: Be a source of positivity and calm for the bride, especially if nerves are running high.

• Pumping up the bride: Keep the energy light and fun! Play her favourite music, share memories, or give her a pep talk to keep her excited and less anxious about the day ahead.

• Feed and hydrate the bride: Weddings are long, and with all the excitement, brides sometimes forget to eat or drink. Make sure she's snacking on something light and staying hydrated.

• Be a bathroom buddy: If the bride’s dress is voluminous or formfitting, she may need help in the restroom. Be there to assist her in maneuvering the ensemble and keep things as comfortable and graceful as possible.

• Organizing: Keep track of the bride’s personal items, like her phone, lipstick, or bouquet.

• Walking down the aisle: Depending on the wedding, bridesmaids may walk down the aisle either solo or paired with a groomsman.

• Fluffing the dress (Maid of Honour): If you are the maid of honour, step forward when the bride reaches the front to fluff her dress for photos and the ceremony.

• Holding the bouquet (Maid of Honour): The maid of honour takes the bride's bouquet at the altar to free her hands for the ceremony.

• Signing the marriage license (Maid of Honour): The maid of honour serves as a witness and signs the marriage license alongside the best man.

• Reception fun: Help get the party started! Dance, mingle with guests, and ensure the bride is enjoying herself.

  
  

Pro Tip: Keep a mini-emergency kit with items like bobby pins, safety pins, mints, and tissues to handle any last-minute mishaps.

Provide Post-Wedding Support

After the big day, your role may extend into helping with post-wedding tasks. This could involve assisting with cleanup, returning rented items, or helping the bride with thank-you cards. It’s a thoughtful way to wrap up your bridesmaid duties and show continued support.

Final Tips for Being a Great Bridesmaid

• Communicate openly: Stay in touch with the bride and other bridesmaids to ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Stay organized: Keep a calendar of all wedding-related events and deadlines.

• Be flexible: Weddings are full of unexpected changes. Stay adaptable and ready to help when needed.

• Have fun: Remember to enjoy the journey! This is a special time for your friend, and your enthusiasm and joy will add to her experience.

Being a bridesmaid is a rewarding role that comes with both responsibility and joy. By staying organized, supportive, and communicative, you'll not only help make the bride’s day perfect but also create lasting memories for yourself and your friend.