While the summer months are winding down and we bid farewell to warm-weathered weddings, we also begin to look ahead. Autumn weddings are becoming increasingly popular- the leaves begin to change and the kind of chill that makes you want to cuddle up with your love will soon fill the air. This wedding season had us thinking, what exactly is the responsibility of the bridesmaid or maid of honor? Sure, we all know to collect the ribbons from the shower or host a girl’s night out, but what about actual wedding day duties?
While looking through recent wedding submissions I began seeing more and more of those lovely friends that stand by their bride and I thought to myself, it is time for a photo round-up! So here’s to exploring some of the unspoken tasks of the bridal party:
Mind Reader
This day is about your glowing best friend and her groom, but even with excitement in the air there is plenty of room for hand holding and tear wiping. It’s hard not to get swept up in the romance of it all, but remember to stay grounded for your bride. Do your best to anticipate her needs. She may need someone to tell her to eat breakfast if nerves have taken hold and her appetite is lost. She will probably not have another chance to sit down and eat during the day so make sure to get her something for breakfast and if you can, try and steal her a few bites at the reception. You might notice that she just needs a hand holder or a prayer giver. Or perhaps she just needs someone to be silly with (and say, jump up and down on the bed with)! You know your bestie the best! Read her cues and figure out what she needs, even if she’s not asking.
Guard that Gown
Your bride’s dress is probably the most expensive clothing investment she has ever made. It is your job to take up the defense and help her keep it as nice as possible. She may want to have it preserved, passed down to children, or resold and in each case you wont want grass stains or ripped hemlines. While you might remember to straighten the train at the altar, keep in mind that she needs help getting to that point too. If you’ll be walking outside watch for patches of grass or mud and remember throughout the course of the day that she may need your help with even the most basic of activities.
Music & Mix Master
Your most precious time together will undoubtedly be while you are prepping for the walk down the aisle. Help make this a fun time for all of the ladies in the bridal party by thinking ahead and bringing some drinks and a playlist. Jamming out to Bruno Mars’ “Marry You” or Fefe Dobson’s “I Want You” with champagne in hand can help start the morning off energized and upbeat. Feel free to even give your playlist some throwback classics like “Love Shack” and “Do You Believe in Magic!”
Go to Girl
As if your day job wasn’t enough, it is now time to work alongside the vendors (especially the photographer). If there is no florist or rental company, you may need to help with setup. And some shots that the photographer or bride have in mind might take a bit more than a pose and a smile. Do what needs done to help them get the perfect shot. When it comes to staging the dress or capturing a sparkler shot, be prepared to scale a ladder or run around looking a bit silly. We promise, it will pay off for your bride!
Party Pumper
For some of you, this might be second nature. But for the rest of those bridesmaids out there who would be perfectly content seated at the head table all evening, push yourself out of your comfort zone! Although your bride and groom are the main attraction, they will likely be pretty busy during the reception greeting guests. Help get the party going and don’t let it die down!
