cityweddingguide.com

Weddings are a good time for everybody involved, especially the wedding party. As a bridesmaid or groomsman you’re pretty much guaranteed one heck of a party with old friends and the possibility of making some new ones. From the bachelorette party to the couple’s shower, all the way to the last dance at the reception, fun is in store. But these special folks need to do more than just show up looking good on the big day, they need to lend a helping hand. You and your guy chose these people because they’re your oldest, dearest, and most trusted friends, right? Well, maybe you had to ask his cousin, or a new friend from work, but all in all, these are the friends and family you want right by your side at the altar. Of course you want them to have to have an amazing time, but there are certain things you can expect from each of them. First, all members of the wedding party should attend the rehearsal and subsequent dinner. If you have out-of-towners in your party, they might not make it to every shower or pre-party you have planned. Just be glad they’re coming to the ceremony! Next is a more specific list of duties for each player on your roster.

Bridesmaids:

·       Plan, finance and host a shower and/or bachelorette party

·       Pay for their dress, shoes, accessories of your choice, (and not complain about it)

·       Run errands before and the day of if necessary

·       Help assemble wedding favors, invitations and programs

·       Decorate both the ceremony and reception sites, if you’re not paying someone to do this

·       Arrive at the ceremony site with the bride at least an hour before

·       Help the guys get their boutonnieres pinned without bloodshed

·       Round up a shot of your favorite bourbon to calm your nerves

·       Hold your bouquet (and tampons, lipstick, gum, and extra bourbon)

·       Babysit your veil and train throughout the day to ensure you always look flawless

·       Have a stash of pre-ceremony snacks so you don’t pass out mid-vows

·       Handle any last minute crises, and keep you out of the loop until after they’re taken care of

·       The maid or matron of honor holds the groom’s ring and signs the marriage license as a witness

·       And of course, hike your dress up while in the ladies room after all that bourbon/Champaign/water

Groomsmen:

·       Plan, finance and host the bachelor party

·       Pay for their tuxes, suits or board shorts and actually show up wearing such attire

·       Run errands, including forwarding payment to the DJ and officiate the day of if necessary

·       Arrive at the ceremony site with the groom about an hour early

·       Make sure the groom doesn’t consume too many shots of bourbon

·       The best man holds the bride’s ring and signs the marriage license as a witness

·       Give hilarious toasts and encourage shy guests to cut loose on the dance floor

Ushers:

·       Distribute wedding programs

·       Escort guests to their seats: guests of the bride on the left and guests of the groom on the right

·       Reserve the first rows for immediate family

·       Finally escort the mother-of-the-groom and then the mother-of-the-bride

·       Direct late guests to open seats in the back

·       Answer questions about driving directions, bathroom locations and after parties

·       Assist guests in an orderly exit after the wedding party has departed the ceremony

·       Help transfer flowers or decorations from the ceremony to the reception if necessary

Flower Girl and Ring Bearer:

·       Parents pay for dress, suit or tux and shoes

·       Hold in all temper-tantrums until the wine is flowing

·       Precede the wedding party down the aisle, throwing petals or carrying the rings on a pillow, looking completely adorable

·       Arrive at the ceremony site about an hour before, if these kiddos are really young, let them show up 30 minutes before so they don’t get stir crazy

Personal Attendant:

·       Help you into your gown without smearing your makeup

·       Keep tempers from flaring by separating certain family members

·       Assist with any last minute touch ups before you head down the aisle

·       Prevent traffic jams by properly timing the entrance of each wedding party couple

·       Round up everyone needed for photos

·       Make sure all the gifts find their way to a predetermined destination

·       Ensure your needs are taken care of in a timely manner and with a smile

Just remember, being a member of a wedding party can take a toll on the wallet, spare time and nerves of your chosen few. When asking your pals, allow them to graciously decline the offer. But once they commit they need to be completely supportive no matter how overwhelmed they may feel. And don’t forget to reward them with lots of thank you’s and really fun gifts.