It was said that in Roman times the Maid of Honour held the responsibility of weaving the wreath of aromatic flowers that the Bride wore, to ward off evil spirits. She was also the person who tended to the Bride, helping her into her dress and taking care of her throughout the ceremony.

Today the role has evolved somewhat and it carries with it a bit more responsibility (minus the wreath I think). Today’s Maid / Matron / Man of Honour has duties starting way before the actual ceremony. We’ll take a look at some of the traditional responsibilities.

First and foremost the Maid of Honour is usually a very close friend or relative, someone who is close to the Bride and will serve as a confidant and emotional support during the preparation stage of the wedding. She is there throughout the planning of the wedding, assisting with colours and pattern ideas, theme choices and so on.

Maid of Honour also serves as head of the Bride’s Maids. Ensuring coordination of travel plans (if necessary), and that collection of, and payment for, outfits are done on time. Ensures all Bride’s Maids meet and get to know each other.

Another duty is the planning of the Bachelorette Party and or Bridal Shower. As head of the Bride’s Maids, the Maid of Honour can pool the resources of the Bride’s Maid to organise all aspects of the parties in the Bride’s Honour.

And Finally the wedding day duties. On the Wedding Day, traditional duties still hold (again minus the wreath thing), helping the bride dress, tending to her from the ceremony through to the end of the reception, and organising the Bride’s Maids.

Now these, again, are the more traditional responsibilities, because of individual tastes and creativity the duties will vary from bride to bride, and in some cases where a male may be asked to fill the role, his responsibilities may be re-assigned (dressing the Bride etc), but the most important thing is ensuring the bride is happy and comfortable.