We always hear how stressful wedding planning is for the bride and groom. The truth is: being the maid of honor isn't much easier! As the bride's right-hand woman, there is a lot on your plate to ensure things run smoothly before, during, and after the wedding ceremony. Here is a breakdown of key maid of honor duties that you should expect.

• You are the bridesmaid ringleader, so take charge! Assign or divvy up responsibilities amongst other bridesmaids so everyone plays a part and nothing is overlooked.
• Go wedding dress shopping with the bride; attend dress fittings; and help bridesmaids pick out dresses, accessories, shoes, etc.
• Plan and host the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. Coordinate logistics (e.g., travel, expenses, activities, and invitations), and keep records of all gifts received at bridal parties/showers.
• Offer assistance with picking out the wedding venue, sending out invitations, arranging seating assignments, and organizing dress rehearsals.
• Prepare a speech and toast (optional) for the reception. Write down notes on cue cards, and rehearse beforehand. Don't even think about winging it!

• Familiarize yourself with the timeline, and keep everyone on track. It's helpful to give out your phone number to key vendors and family members in advance-as the point of contact, you can make sure things run smoothly and keep the bride stress-free on her big day.
• Create an emergency kit to battle any potential disasters. At the very least, consider including the following items in your kit: clear nail polish, bobby pins, lotion, tissues, sewing kit, extra panty hose, as well as the bride's favorite snacks and drinks.
• Keep the groom's ring safe! Guard that thing with your life.
• Pick up any last minute décor (e.g., flowers, cake, candles), or drop off any reception items if necessary (e.g., registry book with signing pens, toasting flutes, party favors).
• Do not overlook your duty to straighten or fluff out the bride's dress! Keep your eye on her veil and train before the ceremony and at the altar.
• Provide emotional and physical support for the bride by being completely available to her. Focus on keeping her smiling so she feels 100 percent confident about being able to depend on you.

• Pack all of bride's belongings, take charge of her gown after the ceremony, and assist with her wardrobe change.
• Collect presents or gift envelopes brought to the reception, and keep them in a safe place.
• Do a final walk-through the venue to make sure nothing is left behind.

Now, there is no quick formula to being the best maid of honor, but this breakdown list should get you pretty damn close. At the end of the day, the most important thing to remember is that everything revolves around keeping the bride happy and stress free-this list just helps you stay more organized while in pursuit of doing so. Happy planning, ladies!

Here are some gorgeous bridesmaid dresses for you to get inspired!

Featured Photographer: Bek Smith PhotographyFeatured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDNFeatured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDNFeatured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN

Featured Bridesmaid Dress: BHLDN

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