The role of the Maid of Honour (called Matron of Honour if she is married) is similar to that of the best man, with the difference being that her duties are related to the bride.
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Like the bestman, the Maid of Honour is usually the closest friend to or relative of the bride. She may also be her sister. The closer to the bride she is, the better, as the two will understand each other better.
The Maid of Honour’s main role is to help the bride in planning her wedding and being the bride’s “consultant”. She must assist the bride constantly throughout the entire planning process, especially during the stressful times close to the wedding day, when the tasks start to breed uncontrollably! She must also work hand-in-hand with the bestman.
If the wedding is going to be a ‘big’ event, you might even consider having two Maids of Honour and share the tasks between them making sure neither of them feels left out. Typical duties include;
Before the Wedding
- Organise the Hen Party, often with the help of the bridesmaids.
- Help the bride buy the wedding dress and the wedding party’s attire.
- Help in addressing the wedding invitations.
- Buy a gift for the bride and for the bridesmaids.
- On the morning of the wedding help the bride and bridesmaids prepare and get dressed in time.
- Assist the bride’s mother with any last minute details.
- Help the bride get in & out of the wedding car, taking care of the dress and veil.
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During the Ceremony
- Hold the bride’s bouquet during the ceremony.
- Coordinate and help the bridesmaids.
- Stand next to the bride and, if required hold the groom’s wedding ring.
- Adjust the bride’s gown and veil when required.
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At the Reception
- Coordinate with the bestman.
- Collect any gifts presented by the guests.
- Assist the bride during the photo shoots.
- Help the bride change into her going-away outfit.
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After the Wedding
- Take care of the wedding dress and take it to a professional laundry.
- Deposit any monetary gifts and keep others in a safe place while the newly weds are away.
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