You have chosen your wedding party and now it’s time to pick your best man or maid of honor. Should you choose your brother, sister or best friend? The roles of best man and maid of honor are a big responsibility. Do they know the time and expense of this honor?

The best man pays for his tuxedo and the maid of honor pays for her own gown. It is these roles that is also responsible for arranging the group gift to the bride and groom from the entire wedding party.

Bridal Showers. The maid of honor attends all bridal/wedding showers given for the couple. Where couples showers are given both the best man and the maid of honor attend.

Bachelor/bachelorette party. It is also the financial responsibility of the maid of honor and best man for the bachelor or bachelorette parties. Invitations, favors and any gifts are their responsibility.

Bridesmaid dresses. The maid of honor typically helps the bride in selecting the dresses and assists the bride in coordinating the fittings for the bridemaids.

Transportation. The best man is responsible for the transportation of the couple to and from the church and to the wedding night location. He may even drive the couple, but he is responsible for ensuring transportation is set. The best man also presents the checks to the clergy and any music of the ceremony. He doesn’t take on the financial responsibilities of these but ensures they receive their checks and all is delivered.

Witnesses. Both best man and maid of honor have the privilege to act as witnesses to your marriage. When signing the license they are verifying that they have heard the vows and witnessed the ceremony.

Toasts. Both the best man and maid of honor say a toast to the happy couple at the reception.

Dollar Dance Anyone? The best man is the master of this ceremony and begins the dance by dancing with the bride and maid of honor with the groom.

Decorating the car. This is the fun part of these roles and who else but the best man and maid of honor!

Final responsibilities. The maid of honor assists the bride in changing from her gown to into her get away clothes and makes a final sweep to ensure nothing is left behind. It is the best man’s responsibility to ensure his and groom’s tuxedo are returned the next day.

No best man or maid of honor? Assign a special family friend as your personal attendant to ensure things run smoothly. Your day is filled with pictures, stylists, family well wishers and it is important to give responsibilities to others to help you!

Your friends have helped to make your special day a cherished memory. That’s what friends are for!