Maid of honor’s roles

1. A GOOD FRIEND

A maid of honor is, above all, a good friend and a great source of support for the bride, no matter how many times the bride drives her to the edge of her nerves. Put yourself in the bride’s shoes and imagine how happy you would be to have someone by your side helping you with everything, just as you are helping her.

2. ATTENTIVE LISTENER AND ADVISOR (READ: PSYCHIATRIST)

Be prepared—you’re going to hear plenty of stories, wild ideas, problems, and dilemmas from the bride; but no matter how many times you hear the same story, and even if it seems like a trifle or nonsense to you, that little detail is very important to her.

Listen carefully to her concerns and offer the best advice you can, even if it’s the fifth time you’re hearing about the shades of the flowers or which of two wedding dresses is prettier (when to you, they look identical). Everything you do will mean a great deal to her.

3. RIGHT-HAND MAN

The maid of honor is the bride’s right hand at all times. This means stepping in to help if the couple is stuck finding a venue, if invitations need addressing at 11 PM, or—on the wedding day itself—if the bride can’t get into her dress or needs help buttoning it up every time she visits the restroom. You also assist the bride in packing an “emergency kit” and ensure it is always within reach should anything go wrong.

4. SHOULDER TO CRY ON

Planning a wedding isn’t easy, especially when you add work commitments, household chores, and—heaven forbid—PMS to the mix. This is a major life change for the bride, so it’s only natural for her to be emotional and irritable. That’s why it would be good for you to be a shoulder to cry on during all those stressful moments.

5. MAIN ENTERTAINER AND DANCE PARTNER

The best man and maid of honor are the next to take center stage after the bride and groom. They are the main entertainers who liven up the atmosphere.