Being asked to be a bridesmaid is an honour, a celebration of friendship and a chance to stand beside the bride on one of the most important days of her life. But with that honour comes responsibility.
Your job as a bridesmaid isn't just to wear a beautiful dress. You're there to support the bride, keep things running smoothly, and make sure she feels calm and cared for.
And if your bride has sent you this guide, don't worry - she's not trying to boss you around. She simply wants you to feel prepared and confident about what's involved.
Here's everything you need to know about bridesmaid duties and responsibilities.
Before the Wedding
The most important thing is simple: be there for the bride. Offer help where you can - join her at appointments, help with small tasks like RSVPs, or just be the person she can vent to over coffee. Sometimes the best support is simply showing up with positive energy.
Be realistic about your time and budget. Bridesmaid duties often include fittings, pre-wedding events, and of course the hen do. The couple may cover costs like dresses, hair, makeup and travel, however some couples may ask you to contribute - so it's always best to chat about expectations early.
When it comes to bridesmaid dress shopping, the bride will usually make the final call, especially if she's paying. If you try something on and it feels uncomfortable or doesn't fit well, be honest. The goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and confident.
If you're invited to wedding dress shopping, keep your feedback gentle and positive. She's trusting you with a big decision, so focus on encouragement and hype her up when she finds “the one.”
And don't forget to back up the maid of honour. She's juggling the busiest to-do list, especially around the hen do, so offer ideas, keep the group chat moving, or just take small tasks off her plate.
Lastly, remember you're still a guest too - so make sure you choose a thoughtful wedding gift.
On the Wedding Day
This is when your bridesmaid responsibilities on the wedding day really matter. Arrive on time and come prepared with an emergency kit - tissues, safety pins, plasters, paracetamol, mints, blotting paper and a phone charger. You'll be the hero if anything goes wrong.
Your role is to keep the bride calm and comfortable. The morning can be a blur of hair, makeup and nerves, so put on her favourite playlist, make her laugh, and remind her to eat and drink.
Be hands-on with getting her ready - from tricky buttons to adjusting the veil. If there are younger bridesmaids or flower girls, give them a helping hand too.
Know your ceremony role - where to walk, where to stand, and when to move. Even without a rehearsal, a little prep makes everything smoother.
Throughout the day, be her second pair of eyes. Check her lipstick, fix a stray hairpin, and keep tissues handy. Agree who will look after her phone and, if she wants, capture a few behind-the-scenes snaps alongside the professional photos.
And don't forget veil and bouquet duty - straightening, fixing, or holding them when she needs her hands free. Small touches that make a big difference.
During the Reception
Your role doesn't end once the “I dos” are done. Keep an eye on the couple - they'll be busy greeting guests and can easily miss out on food or drinks. Bring them canapés, save them some cake, and check they're comfortable.
Be the friendly face at tables. Bridesmaids are often seated across the room to help host, so chat to guests and keep the vibe upbeat.
And when the music starts, lead the dancefloor. After the first dance, guests will look to the wedding party to get things moving.
After the Wedding
When it's time for the send-off, be part of the farewell and help collect any last bits - bouquets, gifts, overnight bags. The couple will appreciate it more than you know.
Bridesmaid Duties Checklist
✔ Support the bride with calm energy and practical help
✔ Be clear on time, budget and what's expected of you
✔ Arrive on time and be ready for photos, fittings & fun
✔ Bring an emergency kit (tissues, pins, mints, charger)
✔ Keep an eye on the little details - veil, bouquet, lipstick
✔ Make sure the bride eats, drinks and takes a breather
✔ Join in hosting guests and keep the party atmosphere going
Being a bridesmaid is about more than wearing a gorgeous dress. Your bridesmaid duties are all about support - making sure the bride feels calm, happy and loved on her big day. Do that, enjoy yourself, and you'll create memories neither of you will ever forget.