One of the most personal and important aspects of your wedding planning process will be choosing your wedding party. Your wedding party will include not only the people who will help you plan your big day, but also those you will want by your side when you walk down the aisle.
Your immediate wedding party, which often includes the bridesmaids and/or groomsmen, is made up of family and close friends. Each member of your elite squad will have different duties to carry out, for you AND your partner, so choose wisely!
Below is a quick rundown of the basics to get you started. But, keep in mind these could absolutely change depending on you and your partner’s preferences!
Maid of Honor (MOH)
The maid of honor (or maids) puts forth the most effort to help the bride with pretty much
every aspect of the wedding. The MOH will be your go-to person before and after the big day. This may include:
– Wedding dress shopping
– Planning the bridal shower.
– Throwing the bachelorette party.
– Toasting the couple at the ceremony.
– Helping the bride get into her wedding dress and keeping it looking fabulous.
– Leading the rest of the squad to step up when needed.
– Serve as your emotional rock.
Best Man
The best man takes on many of the same duties of the MOH. Such as:
– Taking the lead for the bachelor party.
– Paying the officiate.
– Toasting the happy couple.
– Helping out during the ceremony.
– Keeping guard and holding tight to the oh-so important rings (this is not set in stone–if you feel more comfy with the MOH or the officiant holding the rings, go for it).
– Emotional support or right hand man.
Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids duties can be versatile and a big one is to support the MOH with her duties. For example:
– Assist with wedding planning.
– Help to plan pre-wedding parties.
– Help the bride get gorgeous on the wedding day.
– Be a shoulder to lean on.
Groomsmen
The groomsmen are there to help the big day run smoothly, among other duties, like:
– Assist with planning the bachelor party and or any other pre-wedding gathering.
– Walking the bridesmaids down the aisle before the ceremony or after the ceremony (depends on what the bride and groom choose)
– Serve as ushers at the wedding by seating the guests (if applicable).
– Help the best man and groom with wedding preparation.