The bridal party will minister to the needs of the bride. Traditionally female, in modern times, the party for the bride can now include men. Normally, the party is made up of close friends and family members. Some brides choose to bestow the honor of bridesmaid’s duties onto a close relative of the groom. Brides can also choose to select a maid or matron of honor. Equal in title, the only difference between the two posts is that the matron of honor is a married female.

Members of the bridal party, particularly the maid or matron of honor, are responsible for many small, but important roles in the wedding. For example, this honoree will usually coordinate bridal shower arrangements, in addition to preparing the bride for all the events of this special, once in a lifetime gala. The bridal party will assist the bride with all arrangements for the wedding, such as the planning of travel arrangements, communication between vested parties, and coordination of special duties.

The bridal party must also plan the bridal shower. While this is a fun, yet sentimental gathering, do remember that this party honors the couple. Attendees of the bridal shower are unconsciously expected to provide the couple with items that are needed to begin their new lives as man and wife. This party can take place at any time prior to the wedding. Most people, however, do host the bridal shower between 3 months – 3 weeks prior to the wedding day. Bridal showers can vary in tone, and may be coed events. In some instances, the shower is open to anyone who is invited the wedding. Coworkers may also host a bridal shower.

A member of the bridal party should prepare an emergency kit for the day of the wedding. This kit should plant for unforeseen bridal ‘emergencies.’ Accordingly, it will make available items such as a pen, an extra pair of hose, needle and thread, tissues, lip gloss, water, a small snack, tampons or sanitary napkins, and a hair brush.

The bridal party, in general, must ensure that guests sign the wedding book. Bridal party members must also take care of the gifts and ensure that the happy couple receives all offered gifts.

Clearly, a great deal is expected of the bridal party. For this reason, it is both customary and appropriate to thank all members with a gift. These gifts need not be expensive, but they must be selected with utmost care, sensitivity and graciousness. The type of gift may vary from bridesmaid to bridesmaid, but must be relatively equal in price. It is appropriate, however, to give a larger token of appreciation to the first bridesmaid and or the maid or matron of honor.

Proper bridal party gifts can range in sentiment and tone from humorous to silly to timeless. Many women choose jewelry as bridal party gifts. Birthstone rings, pearl necklaces or earrings are all suitable. Brides may also choose elegant compacts as gifts, or monogrammed items such as jewelry boxes, linens, bathrobes or journals.

Jen Carter is owner of My Wedding Blog, a free wedding planning guide about weddings. You may publish our articles on your website only if you do not edit the article in any way, and include all html as direct links to our site. Visit us at www.my-wedding-blog.com