The bridesmaids and groomsmen are first and foremost close friends or family who the bride and groom want to be a visible part of their wedding. The best man and maid of honor lead the two groups and have a vital role to play in the preparations, the day of the wedding and afterwards.
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Other useful Bridesmaids & Groomsmen resources:
The best man will make a best man
speech and read out messages from guests who could not attend. The maid of honor
speech is optional, although a
toast to the bride and groom is usually required. The groomsmen escort the bridesmaids to the wedding.
A bride should have at least one bridesmaid (preferably the maid of honor) who is reliable, organized and cheerful. The maid of honor helps the bride in many respects, as well as providing moral support. She has many functions to perform in the preparations (such as organizing the shower) and she helps the proceedings run smoothly on the day.
It is customary for the bridal couple to give gifts to their attendants as a way of thanks for their participation in the wedding. These include:
*Maid of honor gift
*Best man gift
*Groomsmen gifts
*Bridesmaid gift(s)