[ad_1]
So you have finally got that diamond on your finger and the planning has started. But who are the people you need to rely on during the run up and on your big day?
Well, first of all you need to choose your maid (or matron) of honor or chief bridesmaid. This can be your oldest friend, your big (or little) sister, your partner in crime for all those boozy nights, it's up to you. And they do not have to be female if you do not want. After all, a man can have a female best woman so why can not you have a male chief bridesmaid, just do not put him in a pink frilly dress !! Whoever you choose though needs to be calm and organized. They will be the one keeping your feet on the ground when emotion or excitation gets too much for you as well as being there through all those dramas of the wedding dress, wedding flowers …… Their duties include organizing your hen night, helping you get dressed and ready for your close-up, keeping you laughing and relaxed as the hours tick by, and overseeing the younger bridesmaids and flower girls if necessary. They'll also arrange your veil for you (if you're wearing one) before you take that last walk down the aisle as a single girl, hold the bouquet for you during the service, and keep hold of all those little essentials that you might need during the day. After that, they're free to go and dance the night away!
The flower girls and page boys do not have a particular job to do at the wedding, though if you want, they can walk down the aisle before you scattering petals or they can help hold your train. Or if they can take on the role of ring bearer and carry the rings for you.
The best man is the one who will be performing similar duties for your groom. If you want to make sure that your man is waiting at the altar, clean and sober (and not tied to a lamppost somewhere in the wilds of Scotland), you might need to drop a few hints as to the most suitable candidates. Usually big or little brothers or old child hood friends who have been there through thick and thin are a good bet. Do not just choose someone who's bound to be the life and soul of the party! The best man will arrange the stag party and look after the groom – see above. He will ensure the groom rolls up on time, looking smart and complete with buttonhole.
He'll also instruct the ushers in their duties, look after the rings, make announcements at the reception and direct guests to their seats. He'll also make a best man's speech and organize the transport for the married pair after the reception, so that they can make a graceful getaway. Lastly, he 'll return all rented outfits on behalf of the newlyweds.
The ushers can be male friends or family members, and there's no limit to how many can be appointed. They are expected to help the best man go about his duties, and also look after the guests by handing out 'order of service' sheets on arrival and showing people to their seats. They help keep the machinery running smoothly. And then they get to dance with the bridesmaids, so it's not all hard work!
Finally your witnesses. These are the people required by law to "witness" your marriage and put their names to paper on your marriage certificate. You need at least two, one for you and one for your new husband. These can be whoever you want and although there is not a legal age limit, most registrars prefer them to be over 18. Good candidates are close friends, colleagues or family members who are special but who do not have a particular role to play in your wedding. For example, maybe you have a sister or brother who is not a bridesmaid, usher or best man but you would still like to involve in some way. Asking them to be a witness would be a nice way to make them feel part of your day.
[ad_2]
Source by Sarah Chillington
