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Being asked to be the Maid/Matron of Honor is a very esteemed compliment from a bride. Accepting the invitation to such an honored position is easy but it comes with responsibility outside just standing by her side. The following responsibilities are a guideline, some brides require more or less. The best thing to do is clarify upfront her expectations so that there are not communication errors that can hurt feelings or harm the relationship.

Prior to the wedding, the maid/matron of honor is usually responsible for planning and hosting a bridal shower for the bride. Sometimes showers are hosted by other friends or family and it is not necessary for the maid/matron of honor to perform this duty. If someone else is hosting the shower, it is nice to offer your assistance to the host in the way of time and finances for the shower.

Assisting with planning the wedding is also appropriate but the level of involvement will depend on the bride's desires and needs. The maid/matron of honor should offer her assistance and leave it up to the bride. Typically the maid/matron of honor is responsibility for purchasing her own dress, shoes, and any make-up or hair services required for the wedding day.

The maid/matron of honor should attend the rehearsal dinner. Assisting the bride and her family with transportation of guest coming in to town or helping with other pre-wedding needs will be again dependent on the bride and also the ability of the maid/matron of honor. If she doesn't live in the same town as the bride some duties of helping may not be feasible.

On the day of the wedding, the maid/matron of honor traditionally assists the bride in getting ready. During the ceremony she also ensures that the bride's train is straight if appropriate. She will hold the bride's bouquet during the ceremony and the groom's ring during the ceremony. She needs to be present for pictures and can help with the reception as necessary. Today, many receptions are hosted by someone paid by the site and there really isn't much for her to do. She may also be asked to sign the marriage license as a witness.

Once the wedding is over, the maid/matron of honor may be asked to help prepare the bride and groom for departure to the honeymoon and assist with any clean up that may be required.

In many cases, the maid/matron of honor is the bride's back up. Any and all issues that come up, the bride may call on the maid/matron of honor to help with handling.

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