Bridesmaid Checklist for the Wedding Day

The maid of honor isn't the only bridesmaid with responsibilities.

A woman's wedding day is one of the biggest and most important days of her life. The day is equally important for the bridesmaids, as they are among the few who have been chosen to stand with the bride and share her special day. A bridesmaid plays an integral part in both the wedding and wedding planning. Not every bridesmaid will have the same duties, but it is important to know what the bride expects from each individual bridesmaid, as well as the bridal party as a whole.

Before the Ceremony

The bridesmaids should arrive to the wedding site early; the bride will often predesignate a time when all of the attendants need to be there. The bridesmaids typically assist the bride in getting ready. This may include helping her put on makeup and get into her dress. A bridesmaid should also double-check with the groom and make sure his attendants are also present and accounted for and that everything is going smoothly on his end. In some cases, one or more of the bridesmaids might want to provide a "Just in Case" kit, which may include bobby pins, hairspray, nail polish and any other last minute items that may have been overlooked.

The Ceremony

Just before the ceremony, one or more of the bridesmaids may be asked to help seat guests. During the processional, each bridesmaid will walk down the aisle accompanied by her corresponding groomsman. During the ceremony, the maid of honor will hold the bridal bouquet, while some of the other bridesmaids may hold a paper containing the text of any speech that may be given, or a copy of the bride's vows if she has written her own.

The Reception

Bridesmaids have a number of duties during the reception. They are required to sit with the bride and groom at a special table reserved for the wedding party. In addition to the maid of honor, other bridesmaids may give a speech if they desire and if it is OK with the bride and groom. Sometimes bridesmaids assist in the cutting of the cake as well. They have also been known to help with the opening of presents. They often keep track of what gifts came from what guests; this makes it easier for the bride when it comes time to write thank you cards.

After the Reception

A bridesmaid's job is not finished once the reception ends. They are sometimes required to help with cleanup; this generally occurs either immediately after the reception or the following morning. Whether they are required to help with cleanup depends on whether or not they helped with setting up the reception site. Sometimes the families of the bride and groom will perform these duties. It is also typical of bridesmaids to help the bride and groom load the presents into the vehicle they may be using to transport them from the reception.

References

• NZ Bride: Bridesmaid Duties: Your Complete Checklist

Resources

• The Knot: Maids and Moms