Your sister/cousin/BFF bride-to-be just chose you to be her Maid of Honor! Hooray! More than being a very touching gesture, it also undeniably sounds a bit pressuring. What exactly will you contribute to the wedding? Honestly, it can be a bit tricky, since not all brides will expect the same thing out of their MOH. The best thing you can do is ask, but it’s also nice to know some of the traditional roles that you might do prior and during the big day. Take some notes, darlings!

Photo: Paopao Sanchez | Post: http://brideandbreakfast.ph/2016/06/30/picturesque-in-panglao/

1. Planning the bridal shower. How exciting! There are so many fun things you’ll think of doing to celebrate and honor your best friend, but the best way to go is to consider what the bride will like the most. Talk to the rest of the bridesmaids and brainstorm the best way to make this one of the best days ever!

2. Choosing the Dress. Bridal gown fittings can be confusing, especially when your friend is going for RTW or when she doesn’t know what style looks good on her yet. Expect some fun times and unleash your inner fashionista!

3. Assistance in the details. Your bestie may or may not have hired a wedding planner, but there will be times that when her decision is needed, she won’t be able to choose. You can be there to help her with that! “Will this décor look good here?” “Is this cake design too over the top?” If she’s starting to second guess most things, help clear her mind!

4. Lead the bride tribe. You’ll mostly be in charge of the bridesmaids and relaying important info to them. Make sure you coordinate with them about the day’s activities and help them out with stuff like hair and makeup ideas and dresses if needed!

5. Hold the bridal bouquet and the groom’s wedding band during the pre-vows. Gotta be careful with this one! No need to worry so much, though–just be mindful and things will go a-okay.

6. Prepare a speech. It’s always nice to prepare your talking points beforehand! If you’re not especially comfortable in speaking in front of a crowd, rehearsing might be a good idea too. But at the end of the day, your message should come from the heart. Just be you!

7. Be her confidant. Wedding planning and the day of the wedding can get a bit tough on the bride, especially if there are unexpected problems that arise. Like the good friend you are, this will come naturally to you–just be there for your friend and help her get through the stress!

And there you have it! This is by no means a rulebook that you should follow to a T, but it helps that you’re aware of the things MOHs are usually involved in. The bottom line is don’t forget to consult with the bride, always be there for her, and have tons of fun! Enjoy!