the chief bridesmaid

The chief bridesmaid is commonly the sister of the bride or one of her close mates. However if the bride is a widow, or the selected chief bridesmaid has been married herself, then her title changes to 'Matron of Honour'. She will liaise closely with the bride, assisting with all of the arrangements of the wedding. She will also be responsible for looking after the bridesmaids, flower girl and pageboys

9 months

Assist the bride in choosing her dress and the bridesmaid’s dresses.

6 months

Plans should be discussed with the bride, groom and best man.
Communicate with bride over the dress or outfit, particularly if being made. Establish who will be paying for the outfit.

1 week before

Final travel arrangements should be confirmed with the best man and any other ushers, including the time of arrival at the church or registry office.
Obtain a list of family and guests who should be personally escorted to their seats, to pass on to the best man.
Attend the wedding rehearsal if requested.
Have your hair cut (and coloured if necessary?!).
Obtain some large umbrellas.

The day before

Collect any hired clothing and accessories.

On the day

Make sure that the bouquets are ready for the bride, bridesmaids and flower girl.
Assist the bride with her hair, make-up and dress.
Assist other bridesmaids, flower girls and page boys in getting dressed and ensure they are made aware of any final instructions on their duties.
Leave for the ceremony 10 minutes prior to the bride.

At the church

Organise the bride's dress and veil.
Follow the bride and her father (or chosen person to give her away) up the aisle.
Keep hold of the bride's bouquet during the ceremony.
Witness the signing of the register if necessary.
Leave the church after the bride and groom, accompanied by the best man.
Leave for the reception, after the bride and groom, with any other bridesmaids and the best man.

At the reception

Greet the guests, standing in the receiving line.
Assist in displaying and recording gifts received.
Hand out slices of the wedding cake to the guests.
Have your first dance with the best man.
Assist the bride in changing into her going away outfit.
Take care of her dress and accessories if necessary.

After the wedding

Return any hired clothing and accessories.