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(via maidofhonor.net)

Never been a Maid of Honor (or “MOH” as most call it)? Or perhaps you have been one before, but still aren’t quite sure what it’s about.

Cue Miss Bliss.

I promise, bride-to-be, that this is just as beneficial to you. Pass it along to your MOH and keep it tucked away for when/if you’re called upon to be the Matron of Honor. Yes, they have the same responsibility as the Maid of Honor

Some of these traditional responsibilities are subject to change, depending on the bride’s preferences.

Maid of Honor, surely you know that the bride has chosen you, most likely, because she considers you her closest friend and confidant and that she knows you will be at her side every step of the way. Remember, “With great power comes great responsibility,” as Voltaire said.

So, don't abuse the power. Sometimes, the bridesmaids won’t live in the same city or state. This is where proper email etiquette and phone calls come in. Make sure you’re very diplomatic, encouraging and positive in communicating with the bridal party. Many catfights can get started by the simplest of misunderstandings.

Reassure the bride often that you are there for her in any way possible, whether it’s emotionally or physically present to run errands, etc. Be as helpful as you comfortably can. Also, you must remember that in most cases, the bride is completely new at this.

MOH’s responsibilities:

- Coordinate the bridesmaids

This could include keeping them informed about fittings, pre-wedding parties, or anything else they need to know.

- Bridal shower

You will host the bridal shower with the help of the bridesmaids. This includes planning, setting up, and splitting the costs.

- Bachelorette party

Host, plan, and set up the party with the help of the bridesmaids. Want to perk it up? The attendees can purchase lingerie for the bride and then give it a fun name (i.e. Hot & Sexy, Pink Seduction, etc.). Each can be packaged with their title and the groom can pick which one he wants her to wear each night of their honeymoon (and beyond, of course).

- Wedding day attire

Yes ma’am, you pay for your dress, jewelry and shoes. The bridal party is responsible for purchasing their own attire; occasionally a very generous and thoughtful bride will purchase these items for you, but don’t bet the farm on it.

- Wedding dress shopping

Assist the bride in the dress hunting process, or at least offer. The dress is such an important part of her big day.

(Maria Teijeiro/Digital Vision/Getty Images)

- Maintaining the bride

Before the ceremony, make sure the bride is properly hydrated and eats something light. It’s amazing the difference it will make for her nerves, blood sugar and demeanor.

Be sure to made sure you make sure her wedding dress train is always adjusted in a flattering way at appropriate point in ceremony, if needed. Also, hold the bride’s bouquet during the exchanging of vows and then give it back to her as she and her new husband trot back up the aisle. Help her keep her makeup looking fresh and her hair properly coifed during the entire affair – especially during wedding photos. Make sure the bride sits down to eat and drink something.

After the reception, be sure to get the bride’s dress professionally cleaned and properly stored until she returns from her honeymoon.

(Photo by Jen Huang Photography)

- Toast

Knock ‘em flat with your wedding day toast to the bride! Need some inspiration? Click here.

Now, go and do likewise, and add your own flourishes.

• Miss Bliss's blog