Roles played by bridesmaids and the maid of honor

During a wedding, the couple tying the knot certainly gets to shine, but so, too, do other ceremony participants. From the parents of the bride or groom, to the officiant to the ring bearer, there are many roles beyond bride and groom.

A bridal party typically includes a soon-to-be-bride’s close friends and family. The bridesmaid tradition may trace its origins to ancient times, when bridesmaids would be selected to dress like the bride, and confuse vengeful spirits or warring rival clans who might want to harm the bride.

A special individual gets to enjoy a higher-level job within the bridal party, serving as maid of honor, if she is unmarried, or matron of honor, if she has already walked down the aisle.

Bridesmaids lend support and provide help as needed, but it is the maid of honor, who will serve as the right-hand woman to the bride. Here is a deep look at the unique rolls these women play both before, and during, a wedding.

Bridesmaids

A significant amount of planning goes into a wedding and bridesmaids may be called upon to help brides make various decisions. Bridesmaids also offer support to the bride, who may feel a tad overwhelmed. It is important for bridesmaids to calm the bride and care for her, while she tackles the tasks necessary to host such a momentous occasion.

Bridesmaids can lend support and opinions, when visiting with vendors like florists or musicians. A bride-to-be also may ask certain bridesmaids to come to dress appointments.

Collectively, bridesmaids will plan and help pay for the bridal shower, and bachelorette party. They also can assist the mother-of-the bride with whatever extra help she may need.

Maid of honor

The maid of honor (MOH) does all of the above and more. She will attend wedding dress shopping appointments and serve as a trusted source of honest feedback. The MOH also may be called in to mediate any conflicts within the bridal party, as these ladies may not all know each other prior to the nuptials.

She will check in with the bridesmaids to be sure they are on task and fulfilling any responsibilities in a timely manner.

The MOH will be the main point of contact for the bridal shower and bachelorette party. She will keep track of gifts, so that the couple can follow up with thank you notes. She also may help assemble and mail out wedding invitations.

The MOH will help the bride get dressed on the wedding day, and attend to any needs she may have, including providing snacks and water. In the event the bride’s gown is cumbersome, the MOH may need to assist the bride, by adjusting the dress while seated or when visiting the restroom.

During the ceremony, the MOH will hold the bride’s bouquet and she will give a toast at the reception. She also may make music requests to keep the party upbeat and fun.

There is no minimum or maximum number of people who can be part of a bridal party, but it is important to choose people who can be relied upon and who will enhance the experience. The brideto- be can discuss her expectations from bridesmaids and the maid of honor at the start of the wedding adventure, to ensure that everyone can help ensure the day is a momentous occasion.