The bridesmaids are chosen by the bride from amongst her (usually) unmarried friends, or relatives of hers or the bridegroom. The duty of the bridesmaids is to assist the bride from the moment she arrives at the venue for her wedding until she finally leaves the reception on the first stage of her honeymoon.
By tradition, the bridesmaids pay for their own outfits, and so the bride should take care not to ask anyone who would be unlikely to welcome the expense - unless, the bride is willing to provide the outfits herself. Whoever pays for the dresses and accessories, it is usual to let the bridesmaids keep them after the wedding unless they are hired.
The Bridesmaids' Duties
Before the wedding day, the bridesmaids need to:
- Discuss their dress or outfit with the bride, and establish who will pay for it
- Attend the wedding rehearsal
- Collect any hired clothes and accessories
On the day itself, they should:
- Receive any final instructions from the chief bridesmaid
- Get dressed and help any younger attendants
- Leave for the ceremony 10 minutes before the bride
At the ceremony, they will:
- Follow behind the chief bridesmaid or matron of honour up the aisle
- Leave the church after the chief bridesmaid
- Depart for the reception with the chief bridesmaid and any other bridesmaids
At the reception, they should:
- Stand in the receiving line and greet the guests (if required)
- Distribute slices of the wedding cake to the guests
After it's all over they need to:
- Return any hired clothes and accessories
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