Being the maid of honor is without a doubt, a big job, and one that starts long before the wedding day. This honorable role comes with many tasks and commitments that need to run smoothly, or you may have a bridezilla on your hands…

First, what is the actual definition of the maid of honor? She’s in charge of the bridal shower, bachelorette party, as well as leading the bridesmaids throughout the planning process and on the day of the wedding. But besides being available to the bride at ALL times, there are a few other key responsibilities you can’t leave out!

Key responsibilities BEFORE the wedding:

PLAN THE ULTIMATE BRIDAL SHOWER

It’s often a good idea to delegate tasks and costs to the other bridesmaids when planning this. Make this a fun and bonding task instead of stressful by getting everyone involved. Don’t forget that it’s also completely acceptable to ask the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom for help.

PLAN AND BOOK THE BACHELORETTE PARTY

Let’s be honest, this is the event we’ve all really been waiting for. Even if this is a surprise for the bride, make sure you have some of her direction and that you give yourself enough time to plan. Another useful tip is to discuss what the other bridesmaids and attendees are willing to spend on the party. Either way, this is a fun weekend that you’ll all be looking forward to, so make sure you choose something that matches the bride’s personality!

WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING AND ATTENDING FITTINGS

This will include helping the bride in and out of dresses, giving her your honest opinion, and helping choose the bridal parties’ attire. Even once the bride has confirmed her choice of dress, there will still be fittings to follow…which you’ll need to attend. Get ready to give your opinion on shoes, jewelry, and the dress! Remember that you need to ensure that the bride feels confident and beautiful above all!

GO TO MENU AND CAKE TASTINGS

We’re definitely not complaining about this one. Although tastings are often a bride and groom experience, the bride may want an extra opinion (especially if everything tastes great and you need to make a decision). It’s also helpful for the bride if the maid of honor is there to take notes on options and availability.

HELP MANAGE THE BRIDAL PARTY

As the maid of honor, you’re at the top of the bridal hierarchy (besides the bride of course). Helping out with questions the bridesmaids or groomsmen may have is a huge help to the bride and is often more work than it seems. Besides the above-mentioned, you may also need to step in if there’s any bridal party conflict. Overwhelmed? Recruit one of the other bridesmaids to help you.

KEEP TRACK OF RSVPS AND ANSWER GUESTS QUESTIONS

Tedious, we know, but someone has to do it! Make sure you’ve got a final headcount at least two weeks before the wedding day as most suppliers will need this confirmed. If you really want to score some brownie points, offer to be the point of contact for all guests’ questions!

Key responsibilities ON THE DAY of the wedding

BE THERE FOR THE BRIDE

Whatever and whenever she needs something, make sure you have it. Be prepared to wipe tears, feed her, and help her use the bathroom. A great tip is to have a bridal emergency pack on hand. Whether this needs to include food, champagne, or a hair clip, make sure you’ve got it. Other good items to include are a phone charger, tape, tissues, and scissors. Most importantly, don’t let the bride panic.

HOLD THE BOUQUET

Once you’ve finally walked down the aisle, it’s time to help arrange the bride’s train and veil, hold her bouquet, and enjoy the special moments that will follow as she stands next to her future hubby. You may also need to hold the groom’s wedding ring until the exchange of rings.

GIVE A TOAST

This may either be the greatest, or most terrifying responsibility of the day/night (liquid courage, ladies). Your bride may have opted for family-only speeches, but if not, be ready to give a fabulous speech for your BFF (without embarrassing her too much).

HAVE A GOOD TIME

Once the bride and groom start dancing, make sure you encourage all the guests to get to the dance floor and have a good time! You’ve made it to the end (almost), so now it’s time for you to let your hair down and celebrate with your best friend.