Bridesmaids Duties: What does a bridesmaid do at a wedding?

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is super exciting—it’s a chance to be right by your friend’s side on one of the biggest days of her life! But along with all the fun, there are a few key responsibilities to keep in mind, both before and during the wedding. Don't worry, though—it's all about being there for the bride and making sure everything goes smoothly.

Bridesmaids - Before the wedding

One of the main jobs of a bridesmaid is to be a support system for the bride during the planning process. This might mean joining her on dress-shopping trips, helping her pick colours and themes, or just being a shoulder to lean on when things get stressful.

Bridal Shower & Hen Party/Bachelorette Party

In the UK, it's tradition to celebrate the bride with a hen-do! Whether it’s a spa weekend, a city getaway, or a big night out, the bridesmaids (especially the maid of honour) are in charge of planning something the bride will love.

In some places, especially in the US, bridesmaids will help organise a bridal shower—a fun daytime event where the bride is showered with gifts and good vibes. Then there’s the bachelorette party, which is usually a wild night (or whole weekend) of celebrations.

On the Wedding Day

When the big day arrives, bridesmaids have a few key jobs to help keep things running smoothly.

Getting Ready

The morning of the wedding is all about hair, makeup, and excitement! Bridesmaids help the bride get dressed, make sure her veil is sitting perfectly, and handle any last-minute details—like tracking down missing shoes or calming any pre-wedding nerves.

Walking Down the Aisle

Bridesmaids usually walk down the aisle before the bride, either in pairs or as a group, depending on the style of the ceremony. Once up front, they stand by her side, ready to hold her bouquet or straighten her dress if needed. Younger bridesmaids (sometimes called flower girls) might also have fun jobs like scattering petals or carrying a small bouquet.

Helping Out at the Reception

At the reception, the bridesmaids’ job is basically to keep the energy up and make sure the bride has the best time! This might mean helping guests find their seats, making sure the bride actually eats something, or hitting the dance floor early to get the party started. In some traditions, the maid of honour gives a speech, but these days, more bridesmaids are also stepping up to toast the happy couple.

After the Wedding

Once the party’s over, bridesmaids might help tidy up, return rented items, or gather the couple’s gifts. In some cases, they also make sure the bride has everything she needs for her honeymoon.

Being a bridesmaid is about more than just wearing a pretty dress—it’s about being there for the bride, helping out where needed, and making sure the wedding is as stress-free and fun as possible. It’s a big role, but it’s also an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, love, and plenty of happy memories!

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