the bridesmaids

Bridesmaids are commonly sisters or family members of the bride or chief bridesmaid, but may also be close friends of theirs. The bridesmaids work with the bride and chief bridesmaid on wedding preparations and dress selection, and have the pleasure of trailing behind the bride down the aisle come wedding day. In the event of younger bridesmaids, they will not be expected to take an active role in wedding preparations. Here is a timeline of duties bridesmaids routinely perform throughout weddings.

6 months

Confer with the bride, groom, best man, and chief bridesmaid on various wedding preparations
Help the bride and chief bridesmaids choose dresses for all involved, and determine who will pay for them

1 week before

Take part in the wedding rehearsal

The day before

Any hired clothing or other items should be picked up

Wedding Day

Talk with the chief bridesmaid to receive any final instructions or updates
Get yourself dressed, and help any younger attendants get dressed as well
Depart for the church 10 minutes before the bride is scheduled to

At the church

Trail the bride and chief bridesmaid up the aisle
Trail the chief bridesmaid from the church following the ceremony
Travel to the reception along with the chief bridesmaid and other bridesmaids

At the reception

Greet guests outside the reception venue
Help pass out slices of the wedding cake to guests

After the wedding

Return any hired clothing or other items