One of your dearest friends just called… she’s engaged! As if your excitement wasn’t big enough, but you’ve also been asked to stand beside her on her big day. What an honour! But it’s also quite the responsibility. Being a bridesmaid is no small commitment, so it’s important to know what to expect, and what will be expected of you. With that in mind, here are 5 things you need to know before saying yes.

It’s All About The Bride – This is the most important rule throughout the planning stages, and on the big day itself. Wear the dress she wants, carry the flowers she likes, and encourage her in her gown selection, even if none of them suit your personal taste. The bride has been dreaming of this day for her entire life, so do not make her feel poorly about her decisions. Your day has either already happened, or is well on its way. Let her enjoy her big day, her way!

Listening Is Key – Be prepared to act as a sounding board for the bride and her many ideas. Help her wade through the seemingly endless options of menu choices, flower arrangements and colour schemes. Be there to hear her concerns and soothe her worries.

It Takes Dedication – Being a bridesmaid requires a lot from you. Time, effort, and finances can take a hit. It is important that you are realistic about what you are expected to give, and what you are capable of giving before you say yes. If you cannot give of yourself and your resources to the level required, it is often better to bow out gratefully than to make a promise you cannot keep.

Problem Solving – One of the golden rules pertaining to bridesmaid-hood is not to stress out the bride on her big day, no matter the circumstance. If a problem arises, it is the responsibility of the maids and any other helpers to solve them without giving the bride cause to fret. If the caterer is late, if decorations fall down, or if the dress has a malfunction, or if someone is sick be ready to step in and get the job done.

It’s Rewarding – The months and days leading up to the wedding will challenge you, stretch up and exhaust you. BUT, very little compares to the feeling that comes with standing beside your best friend as she says I do to a forever with hers.