Being A Maid Of Honor

5 helpful hints that can make this experience great

Recently, my oldest sister got married, and it was one of the most beautiful days that I have ever experienced. Everything about this day was breathtaking—the bride, the groom, the wedding party, the decorations, the venue, and the gathering of many dear friends and family. But it wasn’t just the setting that made this evening so special, rather the role that I had been given. Not only was I the sister of the bride, but I had the privilege of being the maid of honor.

There was something special about being able to go shopping with my sister, planning her bridal shower, helping her find her wedding dress, reminding her to calm down, giving a toast in her honor at the wedding, and even consoling her the morning of the wedding when she felt overwhelmed with nerves and emotions. It was all very exciting and memorable.

But it wasn’t easy.

In fact, it was one of the hardest and most stressful things I have ever done. I am not organized, I am very indecisive, and I enjoy winging it.

So you could imagine how the planning and organizing of parties, and everything else that pertains to the traditional role of a maid of honor—was a bit overwhelming, and way out of my comfort. But some how I managed, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had.

I’ve decided, that if I can do it, then many others can as well. I have created a list of pointers and ideas that I hope will be helpful to any who find themselves in the role of the maid of honor.

First and most importantly,

1. KNOW YOUR BRIDE

Know what she's likes and dislikes. (For an example, does she like to be surprised, or would she like to be a part of the planning of her own bridal shower etc.?) When you know what your bride likes, dislikes etc, it can be very helpful to make decisions and to know how to go about things. Another thing to consider is her personality. Does she like to wing everything, or does she want to pin point every single detail?

2. KNOW YOURSELF

What are your strengths and weaknesses, what is your personality, and how is it different or similar to the bride? That way, you can make changes and compromises that will benefit the bride and yourself. ( I am more passive than my sister, so at times I needed to push myself to be more on top of things— that way I didn’t stress the bride.) Lastly, know your limits. What you can and can’t handle.

3. UTILIZE FELLOW BRIDESMAIDS

Just because you are the maid of honor, doesn’t mean others can’t help. Many times, others bridesmaids can contribute a lot and be very helpful. In my experience, the other bridesmaids had some great ideas that I had never thought of, and were very helpful with purchasing items that I needed. And the additional support and encouragement was very beneficial aw well.

4. UTILIZE OTHER RESOURCES

There are many apps, website, blogs, books etc. That have great ideas and can provide support, and tools. (I used Pinterest religiously to find games and activities to play at the bridal shower, for gift ideas, and for free printable.) There are many sources out there that have great ideas that can be very helpful for last minutes planning or for those who (like me) aren’t the most creative.

5. DON’T WORRY

Perfection is impossible, it’s what you make of it that makes it memorable. Just focus on positivity, don’t let your judgmental thoughts, insecurities, or your desire to seek perfection get in the way of your enjoyment. Being a maid of honor is really fun, and I am confident that with a little bit of support from others, Pinterest, and lots of prayer, your experience will be great.

If you have any pointers that you also found helpful, feel free to comment below! And I hope those in the same position as I was, find this somewhat helpful.