Maid of Honor Checklist

A wedding is as big an undertaking as it is beautiful. One of the responsibilities of the Maid of Honor is to ensure that she is prepared to help the day run smoothly. A checklist can help you keep everything in order, and systematically check that you have what you need before you leave for the ceremony. Here is a suggested checklist of items the Maid of Honor should bring with her. Consult with the bride a few days in advance to make sure the list is complete for her specific needs.

Bridesmaid dress: Your dress should be at the top of the list.

Groom's ring: The groom's ring is the responsibility of the Maid of Honor. You do not want to forget this symbol of the couple's eternal love.

Cell phone: Allows you to make arrangements and phone calls as needed.

Extra money: For unexpected expenses and emergencies.

A friend on stand by: Arrange to have a friend available to drive you to the ceremony in case the car has flat tire or engine problems.

Watch: Know when you are in the schedule with an elegant wristwatch or a small watch kept in a nice bag that matches your bridesmaid dress.

Jewelry: If the bridesmaids are wearing jewelry with their dresses, make sure you have your jewelry. The bride may ask you to keep hers and the other bridesmaids' jewelry until it is donned just prior to the ceremony.

Vendor phone numbers: Phone numbers for all of the important service and product providers.

Your Speech: Bring a copy of the speech you will make during the wedding toast.

Pantyhose/Nylons: Bring at least two extra pair. One of them should match what the bride is wearing.

Garters: There should be two: one for the couple to keep, and one for the groom to toss.

Change of clothing: Have an extra change of clothing for after the ceremony. This includes a pair of casual and comfortable shoes.

Flowers: Unless the vendor is supposed to bring them, you should make sure you have all of the necessary flowers for the ceremony (including bouquets, corsages, boutonnières). It is a good idea to look over any delivery of flowers worn or held by the bridal party to make sure all are accounted for.

Needle, thread and scissors: To sew small tears, rips and buttons, have thread that matches the bridesmaid dresses as well as the wedding dress. Scissors aid in snipping stray threads.

Practical toilette items: Things like bobby pins, make-up, perfume, contact solution, hairbrushes and hair styling products, and breath mints allow you to be prepared will vital items that help the bride and her bridesmaids prepare themselves.

Prescription medication: Your prescription medicine is good to have on hand, in the event that the ceremony or reception goes long. Additionally, offering to keep a dose of the bride's and/or groom's medication can ensure that they are healthy throughout the festivities.

Card and/or gift for the bride: Don't forget your gift to the couple, complete with a heart-felt message in a card.