Page 32 - Wedding Essentials & Essential Groom Issue 7

Being the maid of honour does require a bit of effort. It is a great honour to be chosen to be by the bride’s side as the person she trusts the most.
The maid of honour, bridesmaids and the mother of the bride traditionally ar- rive at the ceremony together and leave ten minutes before the bride so they are there to see her arrive.
Before the bride goes into the wedding ceremony, make sure she looks picture perfect by helping to arrange her hair and veil, and then walk down the aisle. Depending on the style of entrance the bride chooses, the bridesmaids go be- fore or after the bride. In British tradi- tion, the bride is to go rst. American tradition has the bridesmaids leading the way, the bride is last.
During the ceremony, you will need to hold the bride’s bouquet. You may also be asked to give a reading or be a wit- ness for the newlyweds as they sign the register. After the ceremony, the bride and groom will leave rst, then followed by the maid of honour and best man.
You will need to join the newlyweds at the reception to greet the guests as they arrive for the celebrations. If there is a
gift table (or a place where guests can write a message to the couple), direct the guests there or assist by taking the gifts from the guests and placing them at the table.
As the maid of honour, traditionally you will be seated at the top table along with the newlyweds, their parents and the best man.
During the celebrations you may be needed by the bride to assist in some tasks like helping the bride if she needs to go to the bathroom (which can be a challenge with a wedding dress).
The maid of honour is also expected to share a dance with the best man after the couple have their rst dance. After that, enjoy the party!
AFTER THE WEDDING
You may be asked to assist with returning any hired clothes and accessories to the store. You may also be needed to remove decorations from the wedding venue.
32 | Wedding Essentials