Maybe you’re thinking about having bridesmaids or perhaps you’ve been chosen to be one for a friend. Apart from a nice dress you might be a little clueless about what the role involves.

Bridesmaid Duties
There are several duties a bridesmaid has:

• The Bridesmaids are a collection of the most important women in the Brides life. You do not have to like them all, but you do have to get along. Leave all pettiness at home, be gracious - even if it kills you.
• The Bridesmaids will accompany the bride when she goes shopping for her dress, if the wedding party is large, only the Maid of Honor should accompany the Bride, too many opinions make it difficult for everyone.
• The Bride and the Bridesmaids will choose the bridesmaid dresses, accessories, shoes and jewelry. This may be a time consuming and expensive shopping trip. Who pays for what will be a big question, each situation is unique. Be sure that everyone is aware of the expectations before committing.
• Hair and make-up expenses are usually paid by the Bridesmaids, if the Bride wants everyone to be made up together, then the Bride should cover parts or all of the costs.
  
• Help address the invitations.
  
• Assist in creating the wedding favors.
  
• The Maid of Honor, together with the Bridesmaids, will plan a bridal shower and a bachelorette party.
  
• Communicate to the wedding guests where the couple have registered their wedding list.
  
• Help coordinate guests from out of town and book accommodation and transportation for them.
  
• Collect the gifts and envelopes at the reception and make sure they are safe.
  
• Help direct guests to their seats, making them feel comfortable and generally overseeing the reception.

What to wear
Bridesmaids are required to wear whatever the bride decides upon. You may be able to have a say in what you wear or the bride may have a ‘look’ in her head that you will have respect. As a bridesmaid you may have to pay for your outfit, shoes and jewelry; make sure you know what the expectations are before you agree to being a bridesmaid.

Choosing your Bridesmaids
Before you choose your bridesmaids, you need to decide how many you want. Traditionally the bigger the wedding the more bridesmaids are chosen. You may want to choose friends, relatives or soon to be sister-in-laws. It’s completely up to you. You should consider whether you expect your bridesmaids to pay for their outfits and whether the people you have in mind can afford it.