Being a bridesmaid for a friend or family member is a honor. If you are asked to do so it is because the bride wants you to be a huge part of the big day. Many ladies, and in some case men, accept this responsibility without actually know what is involved and what duties you are expected to do. There are quite a few, but the top five are listed below. Keep these in mind and you will be the perfect bridesmaid for the bride!

1.      Manage your finances. In many cases, the bridesmaid is expected to pay for her bridesmaid dress. Luckily, these days, so many beautiful styles are affordable, ranging from $99 to $200 on average. You also need to think about a gift for the couple as well as gifts for bridal showers and bachelorette parties. And, if you are live far away, travel expenses must be considered. Therefore, know your limits when it comes to money. If for some reason you cannot afford these costs, talk to the bride and be honest. There is always a way to work things out.

2.      Be available for events. If you live close by, it is essential that you attend any wedding-related events that you can, such as engagement parties, bridal showers, bachelorette party, rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner. This is a stressful time for a bride, so she will need as many friends and family members around as possible. Be sure your schedule is cleared for these events.

3.      Assist with planning the wedding. There is a lot of work that goes into organizing a wedding. Be sure and offer to help in any way you can. Maybe the bride is making the favors or centerpieces? This is a great way to pitch in and help. Talk to the bride and see what you can do to help. There are sure to be little things that will make a big difference.

4.      Know your role in the ceremony and be prepared. This may sound silly, but you would be surprised how a wedding can go wrong when the bridal party does not know what they are supposed to do. This brings us back to rehearsal, etc. Make every attempt to be there and know exactly when to walk down the aisle, where to stand, and what to do afterward.

5.     Be there for the bride.  Simple but so important… be there for your friend or family member not just financially or to help physically, but as shoulder to cry on in case the bride gets overwhelmed. Let her know if she needs to talk, you are more than willing to listen.