Here is a quick chronological checklist of things you will need to do leading up to your friend's wedding. Being the maid of honor is a little easier with a simple guide like this. Feel free to print it out and use it. (Provided courtesy of Bachelorette.com):
Early Stuff:
- Attend as many prenuptial events as possible.
- Help address invitations.
- Wedding invitations
- Bridal shower invitations
- Bachelorette party invitations (e-mail is OK here)
- Help the bride choose the bridesmaids' attire.
- Purchase and have your dress tailored.
- Makes sure that all the bridesmaids, the flower girl and ring bearer have been fitted for their attire in time.
- Organizes bridesmaids' gift to the bride
- Purchase a wedding gift for the couple as well.
Pre-Parties
- Co-host the bridal shower.
- Plan games
- Organize gifts
- Keep a log of the gifts given and the person who gave them
- Most bachelorette parties are hosted by the maid of honor.
- Help address the place cards
- Prepares a speech or toast for the reception.
Before and During The Wedding
- Attend the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner.
- Help the bride prepare for the wedding by helping her get dressed.
- Ensure the bride has something to eat before the ceremony so she does not faint. Makes sure she has no lipstick on her teeth, etc.
- Make sure the bride adheres to the schedule.
- Arranges the bride's veil and train for the processional.
- Takes part in the processional and recessional.
- Hold the ring which the bride will present to the groom.
- During the ceremony the maid of honor holds the bride's bouquet.
- Adjusts the bride's gown before the recessional.
- Adjusts the bride's gown, hair and veil for photography.
At The Reception
- If a receiving line is used, the Maid of Honor usually stands in it.
- Usually give a short speech or toast following the best man's toast.
- Helps the bride change into going away clothes if this is her plan.
- Dances with the Best Man.
- Socializes and has fun.
- Ensures that the bridal gown and accessories are well cared for after the wedding and until the bride is able to have them attended to.
Reference: Emily Post's Wedding Etiquette
