the chief bridesmaid

As the Chief Bridesmaid you have many important duties to perform and you will work very closely with the bride. The Chief Bridesmaid is often a sister or close friend or family member of the bride. However, if the Chief Bridesmaid is already married or if the bride happens to be a widower re-marrying, the name will change to Matron of Honour. The Chief Bridesmaid will liaise closely with the other bridesmaids as well as the bride and is responsible for helping the bride choose her dress for the big day. The following is a timeline of when each duty should be performed.

9 months

Assist the bride when she is choosing her dress and the bridesmaids dresses

6 months

Discuss all wedding plans with the bride and groom
Talk to the bride and discuss all matters concerning the dress, especially if it is being made. Ensure you are aware of who is paying for the dresses.

1 week before

Make sure all travel arrangements are confirmed with the best man and ushers and check that everything is running according to schedule
Give the best man a list containing all the names of family members who may need special seating arrangements at the ceremony
Partake in the wedding rehearsal
Go to the salon to get your hair cut and styled
Ensure you have some large umbrellas to hand in case of rain

The day before

Pick up all hired items of clothing

On the day

Check that all bouquets are ready for the bride and bridesmaids as well as the flower girl
Assist the bride with hair and make up and help her get into her dress
Help younger bridesmaids, flower girls and page boys get dressed and gently remind them of any duties they may have for the day
Leave for the ceremony 10 minutes before the bride is due to leave

At the church

Make any final adjustments to the bride’s dress and veil
Walk behind the bride and her father as she proceeds down the aisle
Keep a firm hold of the bride’s bouquet throughout the ceremony
Witness the signing of the register if this is required of you
Leave the church behind the bride and groom and accompanied by the best man
After the bride and groom have left Church, you should leave for the reception with the best man and bridesmaids

At the reception

Greet all the guests as part of the receiving line
Display all gifts received and help record who each gift is from
Help with passing out wedding cake to guests
Dance with the best man once the bride and groom have finished their first dance
Help the bride out of her wedding dress and into her going away outfit
Look after the bride’s dress for her and any other hired items of clothing

After the wedding

Return all hired clothing and any accessories