The Role of a Chief Bridesmaid

Being asked to be the chief bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. You’ll be the bride’s right-hand woman, helping with everything from planning the hen do to making sure things run smoothly on the wedding day. If you’re feeling excited but a little overwhelmed, here’s what you need to know.

Planning the Hen Party

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One of your first big tasks as a bridesmaid is organising the hen party. This is a chance for the bride to let loose and celebrate before the wedding, but it’s also a big job to get right. A realistic budget is essential before making any plans. Consider the cost of accommodation, travel, activities, and food, along with any last-minute expenses that might arise.

If you plan on providing extras like gift bags or matching robes, factor those in as well. Be upfront with guests about potential costs when you send invitations. If there will be unexpected expenses on the day, give them a heads-up. Booking a hen party house can help keep costs manageable, as payments are made in advance, reducing the risk of last-minute dropouts.

A well-planned itinerary will keep the group on track and ensure everything runs smoothly. Note key timings for activities and meals, travel arrangements between venues, and meeting points if people are arriving separately. Having a rough schedule in your phone or on paper can be a lifesaver when managing a large group.

Not everyone at the hen do will know each other, so it’s a good idea to get introductions going early. Setting up a group chat before the event, planning some fun icebreakers at the start of the night, or suggesting a dress code or theme can help people feel more comfortable.

Supporting the Bride on the Big Day

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Your role as chief bridesmaid doesn’t stop at the hen do. On the wedding day, the bride will rely on you to keep things running smoothly. Helping with the dress is one of the most important responsibilities. From buttoning up the gown to arranging the train before the walk down the aisle, you’ll be the go-to person for dress duties. Make sure you know how to fasten the dress properly and carry a small emergency kit with safety pins, tissues, and stain remover.

Keeping the bridesmaids organised and ensuring everyone knows where they need to be will make a huge difference. Whether it’s timing hair and makeup or making sure bouquets are in the right place, having a calm and collected chief bridesmaid makes all the difference. If the bride has asked you to say a few words at the reception, keep it personal, light-hearted, and heartfelt. A mix of fun memories and a sincere message about the bride’s happiness will go down well.

Helping Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue

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Many brides rely on their chief bridesmaid for advice when picking a wedding venue. The right venue needs to fit the guest list comfortably and be in a location that is easy for guests to reach. If many people are travelling from far away, consider nearby accommodation options. Weather is always a factor, so if the venue is outdoors, check that there is a solid backup plan for rain. The style of the venue is another important factor. Whether the bride wants a rustic barn, a grand manor, or a city venue, it should reflect her vision for the day.

Many venues offer bridal suites where the bridal party can get ready together. If this is important to the bride, check that it’s available when making a booking. A good venue will make the day feel special and run smoothly, so take the time to find one that ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

As chief bridesmaid, your main job is to support the bride and make her feel at ease. Whether it’s planning the perfect hen party, managing wedding day logistics, or helping choose a venue, your role is to keep everything running smoothly so she can enjoy her big day. If you’ve been a bridesmaid before, what are your top tips? Share them in the comments!