Best man -- This guy is at the groom`s side from start
to finish and will organize the stag party, deliver speeches, etc.. He is in
charge of the groomsmen and is responsible for them to have everything prepared
in time for the wedding. He is responsible for getting the groom to the ceremony
on time, gives the officiant his/her fee, signing the marriage license, and
taking care of the bride`s ring.
Bride -- There would be something wrong if we didn`t know
who the bride was. But her responsibilities (apart from the obvious) are; planning
all aspects of the wedding; with the groom of cause (yeh right) from ordering
the cake, picking the dress to arranging the flowers. Not forgetting her most
important role is marrying the groom.
Bridesmaids -- These girls are usually close friends and
family of the bride. They help the bride to plan for the big day; sending invites,
planning the hen night, etc.. They are also there to offer support if needed.
Father of the bride -- In traditional fashion the father
of the bride stumped up most of the cash for the wedding. He usually takes a
back seat and lest the mother deal with most of the event but can help out with
arranging transport, tipping where appropriate etc.. His biggest role is to
give his daughter away by walking her down the aisle not to mention the famous
father of the bride speech.
Father of the groom -- the father of the groom has always
taking a back seat where planning and help out is concerned but is noted for
paying for the rehearsal dinner, and sometimes the honeymoon.
Flower girl -- Flower girls are usually aged between 2-8
and walk down the aisle ahead of the bride scattering flower petals from a basket.
Groom -- Apart from the obvious he helps the bride (where
permitted) arranging the wedding. His make tasks are; booking the honeymoon,
gathering a band or DJ, arranging transport, finding accommodation for out of
town guests, and so on. His main role of cause is to turn up on time and make
an honest woman of the bride.
Groomsmen -- Friends and family of the groom who help with
planning and preparing for the wedding. They assist the best man and help plan
and pay for the stag party. It's also common to have groomsmen as ushers. They
also help decorate the get away car and get to dance with all the single bridesmaids.
Junior bridesmaids/groomsmen/ushers -- Young members of
the wedding party (aged 9-16). They'll attend all major functions (excluding
stag and hen parties) and fulfill the same responsibilities as senior members.
Maid/Matron of honor -- Is usually the bride`s best friend
who helps with all the planning. She is the to provide emotional support where
needed and fight back those last minute butterflies. She arranges the hen party,
helps the bride get ready on the big day, makes a toast to the bride and groom,
signs the marriage license, holds the bouquet during the vows and collects gifts
at the reception. She is the last bridesmaid to walk down the aisle before the
bride, holding the groom's ring on her thumb.
Mother of the bride -- The bride's mum helps with the planning
(note not to take over) arranging the guest list, hostess at the rehearsal dinner,
shoulder to cry on when things get to much and all round strength of the party.
Mother of the groom --The groom's mum can assume any of
the bride's mum's responsibilities, if permitted. Works with the bride`s mother
on the guest list and others as much support as possible. Don`t forget the mother
and son dance.
Officiant -- Are the cleric or city official who performs
the marriage ceremony.
Page boys -- Young boys aged 4-9 who carry the bride's
extra-long train. Also known as "train bearers."
Ring bearer -- A young boy (or girl) aged 4-8, who walks
down the aisle just before the flower girl carrying a pillow with two rings
tied to it.
Train bearer -- (see Page boys)
Ushers -- (Usually male) who escort guests to their seats
before the ceremony. Ushers are often employed in addition to groomsmen so as
not to miss any body out.
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