The Ultimate Guide to Being the Perfect Maid of Honor

Congratulations, you’ve made the honor role! You’ve been selected to fill the role of maid of honor, that is.

Not sure exactly what that entails?

Keep reading.

You’ll not only learn what’s expected of you, you’ll also know how to have a blast throughout the whole process.

You Were Chosen for a Reason

First things first. You were chosen because you’re responsible and fun. The bride can trust you, you know her well, the two of you have a history of all sorts of… ahem, experiences.

There’s a reason she picked you.

Now, in order to absolutely rock your role, you’re going to want to be the Watson to her Sherlock. What’s the best way to do that – know what she expects of you – and learn how to support her?

Ask.

All brides have a different dream of the specifics that make up their big day, and having her plot out the points that anchor her vision will give you a better idea on how to help her bring it to life.

As maid of honor, you’re basically in charge of starting parties and putting out fires. Both can be accomplished with a little creativity and attention to detail. 

Bridal Shower & Bachelorette Party 

Here’s where you can get really creative and have some fun. With the other bridesmaids help, you get to plan the bachelorette party and bridal shower, if she’s having one.

Now, the bachelorette party need not be the female version of the movie The Hangover. 

Honestly, both festivities can be something that suits the bride’s vibe. It doesn’t have to involve Las Vegas, a huge expense, or any of that.

There are a ton of fun and creative ways to celebrate the bride and her upcoming nuptials – you know you’ll have a fabulous time no matter what you choose.

So, clear your mind of what people tell you it’s supposed to look like, and focus instead on what’s true for you, the bride, and the rest of the crew.

What does the bride love? 

What’s her idea of a good time? 

Incorporate it all, and if you’re feeling cheeky, a little extra – just enough to lightly nudge her out of her comfort zone.

Backyard parties are a blast, so is a night on the town in your local area. Neither need be extravagant; you know it will be a night to remember, no matter what.

Dress Selection: The Bridal Gown and Bridesmaid Dresses 

If shopping is your thing, this will be fun. If shopping isn’t your thing, you can still have fun.

Have the bride give you an idea of the look she’s going for; bonus if she shares a wedding dress related Pinterest board with you.

When it comes to trying on dresses, exercise kindness and honesty. Have her try on a few that you think would look fab on her, and maybe one that’s just so outlandish you can’t help yourself…as mentioned before, you can still have fun.

Besides her dress, there are bridesmaid dresses to consider too. Here’s where you can have more of a say, because that’s what you’ll be wearing, after all.

If you’re not sure where to look, check out bridesmaid dresses here. This incredible selection of dresses covers all cuts, colors, fabrics, and budgets. You’re bound to find one (or five) you love.

Rehearsal Dinner & Wedding Day

It’s go time! For the rehearsal dinner and wedding day, you are here to support her.

She may send you out to Walmart after midnight on an emergency safety-pin run. She may ask that you do your best to fill uncle Kenny’s champagne flute with non-alcoholic cider – and hope he doesn’t notice – because she knows he’s prone to clearing the dancefloor with  his version of the worm after a few. 

By being attentive to her, allowing her to vent and helping her come up with contingency plans, you’re the one she relies on through it all.

It may feel stressful, but it needn’t be. There is no reason why you can’t have fun as well. It’s a celebration after all, and you were picked because she knows you’re able to handle both the responsibility, and have a great time.

Conclusion

Alright, now you know exactly what’s required to be the perfect maid of honor. You know what she  expects of you. 

You know the bride well, and are brimming with bachelorette party ideas that you can’t wait to share with the rest of the bridesmaids. And… uncle Kenny’s on your radar. There’s no doubt about it – you’re it. The ultimate maid of honor. 

Have fun, you’re a big part of this special day too.