Roles of the bridesmaids
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 be feeling 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-tobe 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 motherof-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 bride-to-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 .
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