Brides and grooms often select Bridesmaids and Groomsmen based upon the closeness of their friendship with each individual, and yet—with the exception of the Maid of Honor and Best Man—the role of Bridesmaid and Groomsman prior to and during the wedding is often largely undetermined and, at times, confusing.

If you're searching for ways your Bridesmaids or Groomsmen can help out, here are a few tips:

The Perfect Number

Traditionally, the appropriate number of Bridesmaids and Groomsmen is 4 of each. The reason being that groups larger than this are more difficult to arrange and coordinate. However, it's your wedding and you should choose the number that is right for you. There are no restrictions as to who can be a Bridesmaid or Groomsman and the only standard to keep in mind is that usually, all Groomsmen and Bridesmaids wear the same attire (though this can also be changed).

The Maid of Honor

One of your bridesmaids is the Maid of Honor. She is the closest person to the Bride after the mother—typically a sibling or confidant. The Maid of Honor will assist the bride with the planning, decision-making, and details of the wedding and will be by her side throughout the wedding planning process. The Maid of Honor is also in charge of wedding party coordination and organization, she prepares a toast for the Bride, and she's relied upon to be with the Bride at all times.

The Bridesmaids

The next bridesmaid in the rank also spends a lot of time with the Bride. This individual will normally help choose invitations, favors, etc. The other 2 can also help assist with duties such as planning the bachelorette party, coordinating any day-of communications, or assisting with logistics.

Your bridesmaids can help you run any errands you need to do, and they can have input in their bridesmaids gowns (which they might be expected to purchase). On the day of your wedding, they will be with you in photographs, they will stand next to you during the ceremony, and they can be with you while you receive guests into the reception area.

The Best Man

The Best Man is the closest confidant of the Groom. He is in charge of preparing a toast for the Groom and serves as moral support. He can pick the Groom's attire and is in charge of coordinating and organizing all activities for the rest of the groomsmen. Prior to the wedding, the Best Man is also responsible for assisting with the mailing of the invitations. In many religions and ceremony rituals, the Best Man is also responsible for the safekeeping of the wedding rings until the moment in which they will be presented at the ceremony.

The Groomsmen

The first Groomsman after the Best Man in rank can be in charge of arranging the Bride and Groom's vehicle. He could arrange the rental, or in some cases, even drive it himself. He may be asked to greet guests during the reception and be an usher during the ceremony.

A Groomsman can also be responsible for making arrangements or decisions with vendors. If that is the case, one Groomsman may very well be expected to stay sober during the wedding.

All the Groomsmen are expected to also attend all pre-wedding events, as well as assist the organizers of these events if needed. They can also provide some stress relief for the Groom as he awaits the ceremony.

Here's a general overview of the most important responsibilities for the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen:

Bridesmaids

• Purchase their gowns and accessories
• Assist in the planning of all pre-wedding events and ceremony
• Attend all pre-wedding events
• Give suggestions on party favors, decorations, etc.
• Help with the decoration at the church and at the reception venue, if needed
• Run errands
• Walk down the aisle and stand in the receiving line
• Coordinate gifts or reception seating, if needed

Groomsmen and/or Ushers

• Responsible for their own tuxedos
• Assist in the planning of all pre-wedding events and ceremony
• Attend all pre-wedding events
• Run errands for the group
• Serve as ushers during at the ceremony and help distribute the wedding programs to the guests
• Walk down the aisle and stand in the receiving line
• Provide stress relief for Groom and escort bridesmaids into reception