A History of the Bride's Maids

Getting married means big plans and aside from deciding on the date and location of the ceremony, the most important task will be choosing your wedding party! Who better to help you plan such an exquisitely memorable occasion than your bridesmaids? Do your bridesmaids know their part? What exactly DOES a bridesmaid do and most importantly, what, if anything, do you do for your bridesmaids?

Historically, bridesmaids can be traced back to roman times when it was written law that there must be ten witnesses to the wedding ceremony. Bridesmaids and groomsmen dressed in the same attire as the bride and groom and acted as decoy's to thwart off evil spirits that might otherwise bring harm to the couple to be. Back then bridesmaids were often servants of the bride but of course today the position of the bridesmaid is one of great veneration.

Traditionally the role of bridesmaid is reserved for close friends and family members of the bride and groom. The role of the bridesmaid can be as simple as just offering moral support or the bride may choose to include her in all aspects of the wedding from selecting a theme to planning the rehearsal dinner. The maid of honor or matron of honor, if she is married, is the title held by the bride's chief attendant and is typically responsible for planning the bachelorette party, bridal shower and giving a toast at the rehearsal dinner. Of course, the most important role of all is on the wedding day itself. This is when your bridesmaids will keep things running smoothly, assist you with getting into your gown and keep you calm on your special day.

Choosing the dresses for your bridesmaid's can be a difficult task. We've all heard the jokes about hideous bridesmaid's dresses but an ugly dress is only funny if it isn't on you! When you consider the dresses to be worn by your attendants, be sure to think not just about the different body types, but also their hair and skin tones. Colors that look good on anyone include, eggplant, teal, rose, and red. Black is also a classy and timeless color that looks especially eloquent at an evening wedding. For figure flattering dress styles that compliment all body types consider a V or scoop neckline to draw attention to the face and look at A line dresses or those with empire waistlines. Additionally, a dress with a sash the same color can add definition to the waist without taking away from height appearance.

As the bride, it is customary to provide a bridesmaid luncheon to honor the attendants who will be giving you their love and support on your special day. Bridesmaids gifts are usually given at this time. It is important to choose meaningful gifts for your bridesmaids to commemorate the day. Some idea's for bridesmaid gifts include, accessories such as necklaces or earrings to compliment the wedding attire or personalized jewelry boxes, compacts, or picture frames. Other popular gifts include items that will be useful on the wedding day itself such as a tote bag or cosmetic case.

Katie Washington is a writer for My Wedding Favors where you can shop for bridesmaid gifts and other wedding day accessories.

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