Her opinion will be helpful in selecting the wedding venue, reception site, invitations, decorations and favors.  Most importantly, she will be asked to help shop for the bride’s gown as well as the bridesmaid dresses.  She may be asked to go to register at various stores with the bride-to-be, if the groom is not available.  Many times the maid of honor will plan and host the bridal shower as well as the bachelorette party.

Being a maid of honor can require a lot of time and money.  The bride needs to sit down with this sister, friend, cousin, or future sister-in-law, and find out exactly how much time and resources can be expected.  She needs to inquire about work schedules, babysitting requirements and budget constraints that might figure into the attendant’s ability to participate.  The bride can then accurately assess how much responsibility to give the maid of honor and then delegate to other attendants and family.

If the maid or matron of honor is coming from out of town or state, she may be coming the day before the wedding and leaving the day after.  Most of her moral support will come by telephone in the weeks and days before the wedding.  Although far away, she can still give her opinion about wedding colors, decorations, food, and music.  

The out of town maid of honor probably will not make the bridal shower, but will be available for the rehearsal dinner and bachelorette party.  On the wedding day, her duties will be assisting the bride in getting into her gown, veil and makeup.  She can be a calming source for the nervous bride, and keep track of the bouquet and the groom’s ring. 

By having an honest discussion with her maid of honor, the bride can avoid overwhelming her with responsibilities.  The bridal party should be happy and relaxed, enjoying this memorable event with the bride and groom, their cherished friends.