Duties of a Maid of Honor

You've been asked to be maid of honor and gladly accepted without really knowing what's involved... sound familiar? Being the maid of honor for your friend or sister is an important role but it can be confusing to know exactly what's expected of you. There are some core responsibilities, like organizing an epic bachelorette party of course, but what else? 

 

Your involvement in the wedding will assist the bride during the planning process and on the day itself. It's helpful to start with a frank conversation to get an idea of expectations from both sides and avoid any confusion. This list is a great place to start talking through the typical duties; what kind of jobs the bride needs your help with and whether she will be delegating to you as a manager or calling on you as a consultant. Believe it or not, wedding planning can really test female friendships, so it pays to figure this out at the start to avoid any tension later.

 

Support the bride

Aside from being the bride's BFF, you've probably been selected as maid of honor because you are pretty organized and reliable, and actually enjoy planning. It's important that this role as your bride's right-hand person feels enjoyable rather than a chore! Planning a wedding can become overwhelming and your support throughout the process will be invaluable, whether that's a listening ear on the end of the phone or practical help to check off a list of jobs. Discuss the level of involvement the bride requires from you upfront and talk about ways that you can support her.

 

Serve as the point of contact

Introduce yourself to key members of the wedding party - bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents etc. - so they can turn to you with questions. This will alleviate stress from the bride in replying to texts and emails and puts you in a good position to filter any guest issues that you can easily solve without bothering the bride.

 

Go wedding dress shopping

Perhaps the most anticipated event aside from wedding ceremony itself, helping your bestie find their dream dress is a usually key maid of honor role. You'll likely be accompanying her on dress shopping trips and giving your honest opinion on what flatters her. You could help make the process even more special and fun by arranging a nice lunch or dinner; or even treat her to a manicure or massage after a long day trying on gowns.

 

Shop for bridesmaid dresses

Once the bridal dress is sorted, you'll need to start shopping for bridesmaid's outfits. Allow plenty of time for this as it can take longer than you might think! The number of bridesmaids and where you all live will determine whether it's possible to get together for a shopping trip or easier to order a load of dresses online for everyone to try on at home. Our guide to finding bridesmaid dresses for all shapes and sizes is full of helpful tips and inspiration to get you started.

 

Plan the bachelorette party

Planning a great bachelorette party is a key maid of honor job that can involve navigating budgets and WhatsApp groups with spreadsheets and schedules. It's no mean feat! It can be stressful trying to keep everyone happy so just focus on creating an event that you know the bride will love and enjoy, and don't hesitate to call on the other bridesmaids for help where you need it.

 

On the day duties

The wedding day is here! Today is all about keeping the bride calm and content. Stock up on her favorite snacks and remind her to eat; supply drinks (but not too many!) and if any problems crop up, try to deal with them without bothering the bride. You probably know your friend better than anyone so if you can predict what she might need or really enjoy on the day, like creating a playlist for getting ready or making her favorite coffee, these little touches will be really appreciated.


Maid of honor speech

It's traditional in some countries for the maid of honor to give a speech or a toast, but not all, so have this conversation early on to ensure you are prepared. If you don't feel comfortable standing up in front of a sea of guests to do a speech, don't feel pressured to and consider something more personal instead, such as writing a letter or poem, which is sure to be appreciated just as much.


Have fun and keep perspective

Even the most laid-back brides can become so wrapped up in making their wedding the most perfect day possible that the planning isn't enjoyable anymore. If you spot signs that it's all getting a bit overwhelming for her, offer a gentle reminder why she's getting married and help her to keep things in perspective. Try to keep the planning light and fun and remind her that committing to a life with her bae is really the most important part.



Classic Elegance Events' Wedding Tips, Tricks and Trends

Wedding Planning Tip: Prioritizing Your Budget for a Stress-Free Celebration

By Joyce Schlanger • February 4, 2025
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can quickly become overwhelming—especially when it comes to managing your budget. One of the most effective ways to ensure a smooth planning process is to prioritize your budget early on. Why Budget Prioritization Matters Weddings come with countless expenses, from venue and catering to attire and décor. Without a clear understanding of where you want to allocate your funds, it’s easy to overspend on one area and find yourself short in another. Prioritizing your budget helps you focus on what truly matters to you and your partner, ensuring that your big day is both meaningful and financially manageable. Steps to Prioritizing Your Wedding Budget 1. Identify Your Top Three Must-Haves Before diving into the details, sit down with your partner and list the three aspects of your wedding that are most important to you. These could be: • A dream venue • An exceptional photographer • A live band or DJ • A gourmet dining experience • Luxurious floral arrangements Once you determine your top priorities, you can allocate a larger portion of your budget to these areas while making compromises in less significant categories. 2. Research Costs Early Start by getting quotes from vendors and researching average costs in your area. This will give you a realistic understanding of what to expect and help you set your budget accordingly. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as service fees, taxes, and gratuities. 3. Be Flexible with Lower-Priority Items If something isn’t a top priority, consider alternatives. For example: • Instead of a five-tier wedding cake, opt for a smaller cake and a dessert bar. • If a designer gown is out of budget, explore sample sales or pre-loved options. • Instead of extravagant centerpieces, incorporate candles and greenery for a chic, cost-effective look. 4. Keep a Contingency Fund Unexpected expenses are almost inevitable. Set aside 5-10% of your total budget for last-minute costs, such as weather-related adjustments, extra décor, or additional guests. 5. Track Expenses Religiously Use a wedding budget tracker, spreadsheet, or planning app to monitor spending. Regularly reviewing your expenses ensures you stay on track and avoid surprises down the road. Final Thoughts By prioritizing your wedding budget early in the planning process, you can create a day that reflects your vision without unnecessary financial stress. Focus on what truly matters to you as a couple, make informed decisions, and remember—your wedding is about celebrating love, not just spending money. Would you like more budgeting tips or a breakdown of specific wedding costs? Let me know in the comments!

More 2025 Wedding Trends

By Joyce Schlanger • January 17, 2025
As we step into 2025, weddings are becoming more personal, intentional, and visually stunning than ever. Couples are moving beyond traditional expectations to create celebrations that reflect their unique love stories, using trends that are as fresh and inspiring as their relationships. Here’s a look at some of the top wedding trends shaping this year’s nuptials. 1. Layered Linens: A Tablescape Transformation Tablescapes are taking center stage in 2025, with layered linens adding depth and dimension. Couples are opting for combinations of textures, like soft cottons paired with silky runners or patterned overlays atop solid bases. This trend allows for personalization, whether you prefer a romantic, vintage feel with lace accents or a modern aesthetic with bold geometric prints. Layered linens not only elevate the table design but also set the tone for the overall decor. 2. Bows: A Statement of Elegance Bows are making a comeback in a big way this year, adding a touch of romance and whimsy to wedding attire and decor. Oversized bows on gowns, chic bow ties for grooms, and even bows on chairs or ceremony backdrops bring a sense of playful sophistication. Whether tied at the back of a wedding dress or incorporated into hair accessories, bows are a versatile way to infuse elegance and personality. 3. Colorful Bouquets: A Vibrant Celebration Goodbye monochromatic florals—2025 is all about bouquets bursting with color. Couples are embracing bold, vibrant blooms that reflect joy and individuality. Think jewel tones like emerald and amethyst, citrus-inspired palettes of oranges and yellows, or eclectic mixes of wildflowers. These colorful arrangements bring life to ceremonies and receptions, creating stunning contrasts against minimalist backdrops. 4. Minimal Yet Intentional Designs Minimalism is evolving into something more intentional. In 2025, couples are curating their decor with care, choosing fewer elements but ensuring each piece has significance. Think sleek, uncluttered designs enhanced by meaningful details, such as heirloom centerpieces, handwritten signage, or custom art installations. The focus is on quality over quantity, making every detail feel purposeful and special. 5. Nontraditional Cakes: Sweet Works of Art Wedding cakes are taking on bold new forms, with couples ditching the classic tiered designs for nontraditional shapes and styles. From asymmetrical structures and hand-painted designs to cakes inspired by textures like marble or terrazzo, these desserts are true masterpieces. Many couples are also incorporating unexpected flavors, such as matcha, black sesame, or floral-infused layers, for a treat that’s as unique as it is delicious. 6. Patterns and Textures: Design with Depth From stationery to reception decor, patterns and textures are redefining wedding aesthetics. Couples are incorporating geometric prints, floral motifs, and tactile elements like velvet, rattan, and metallics into their designs. Whether it’s a patterned dance floor, textured napkins, or embossed invitations, these details add richness and visual interest, creating a truly immersive experience for 2025 Weddings: A Year of Personal Expression This year’s trends reflect a shift toward personal expression and intentional design. By blending vibrant colors, playful elements like bows, and rich textures, couples are curating celebrations that feel fresh, elegant, and uniquely their own. Whether you’re planning your big day or simply dreaming about it, 2025’s wedding trends promise to inspire creativity and joy in every detail.

Who pays for what?

By Joyce Schlanger • July 26, 2022
Who Pays For What? Joyce Schlanger-Classic Elegance Event

The Ancient Spanish Monastery

By Joyce Schlanger • June 6, 2022
The oldest building in North America.
cookie display

The Traditional Cookie Table

By Joyce Schlanger • May 2, 2022
If you have ever been to a wedding in Southwest Pennsylvania, then chances are great that you know what a cookie table is. If not, then you have missed out on something special. Historically, cookie tables were found predominantly at Catholic and Eastern European family weddings. Today, the famous tables can be found at almost any Pittsburgh wedding. Other areas in Ohio, West Virginia, New Jersey, and New York all have their own version of this tradition. Cookie tables are a sight to behold and one that many wedding guests look forward to more than the wedding itself. Once you have experienced this sweet wedding tradition, you'll be looking for the cookie table no matter where the wedding takes place. Filled with tray after tray of homemade cookies, these tables can range from a small table with a few hundred cookies to elaborate spreads that span the wall of an entire hotel ballroom, holding thousands of cookies. Not only can guests sample all of the sweet treats at the wedding, take-home containers are also provided so no one leaves empty-handed. And we are not talking about a few chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies, either. People spend weeks making their special delights for the big day. From pecan tassies and dainty lady fingers to that special family cookie that has been made for generations, you name the cookie and it will probably be on the table. While no one is quite sure when the cookie table tradition began, the consensus is that immigrants started it out of necessity. Elaborate wedding cakes were expensive and many immigrants were unable to afford them. Cookies could be made for the wedding by grandmothers, mothers, and other family members at a relatively low cost that was spread out among many people. By bringing old-world cookies to weddings, the tradition was also a way for immigrants to honor their heritage in their new country. The cookie table is so special because, aside from keeping the tradition alive, the Wedding Cookie Table gives family and loved ones the opportunity to show their love and adoration for the newlyweds through working with their hands. The baker carefully selects each cookie and takes great pride in his or her confections. Keeping the bride and groom in mind, often the baker aims to elicit a warm and happy memory. Each person is baking with love and pride for their loved one, and those feelings manifest into a variety of sweet, sweet treats that you and I get to enjoy! If you are interested in having your very own Cookie Table on your special day, Classic Elegance Events is happy to incorporate this special traditional in your customized wedding planning package. Classic Elegance Events is a boutique wedding planning firm located in South Florida specializing in full-service wedding planning, day-of coordination and event consultation.

Wedding Planners Add Value

By Joyce Schlanger • April 19, 2022
Planning and designing a wedding are harder than it looks and is a lot of work. There are numerous details and tasks that need to be done. Did you know it takes roughly 250-300 hours to plan a wedding? The legwork it takes to plan, interview, compare quotes, come up with ideas, design and pull it all together is a huge undertaking. Hiring a wedding planner can make joyful times a little easier on your nerves, we save you time, aggravation and stress. We help you avoid pitfalls throughout the planning process and on your wedding day. Hiring a wedding planner can really make the entire process more manageable and enjoyable for you. You should be excited about your big day, not stressed or tearful. A wedding planner can get the ball rolling so that you can make important decisions. We will help bring your vision together and put you in touch with wedding professionals and suppliers who can bring you day to life and keep you within your budget. Wedding planners review contracts to make sure no important details or information is missing. Planners keep everything on schedule, and we will always have your best interest at heart. They can be your personal sounding board and to help negate bickering or intense conversations with those around you. We help keep your mental well-being safe by helping to guide these situations to save yourself from unwanted arguments. Wedding planners help put your scattered ideas into one cohesive design. We not only want to deliver an organized event, but an all around beautifully designed event. Wedding planners stay on top of the trends and help conceptualize a design that makes your wedding design on your own. We can give you great insight on industry norms and explain what you can expect. Wedding planners do all this and more. We are a valuable resource for you during the planning process and the day of coordination. Eighty nine percent of brides who hire a wedding planner were pleased that they did, but only thirty four percent of brides actually hire planners. Many brides do not understand their true value until it is too late. Contact a planner today to deliver what you expect and envision for your wedding day.

Should our wedding be Kid-friendly or Kid-free?

March 24, 2022
One of the big guest list decisions couples have to make is deciding whether your wedding is going to be family friendly or adults only. Is it a kid-full or kid-free event? Back in the day, you wouldn’t think twice about inviting the kids because the entire wedding would be hosted by the bride’s family, likely at their own home, so of course the children would attend. But in recent years, we’ve seen lots of weddings without kids that are just as fun and full of love. It all comes down to the type of party you want to throw, the important people in your life and what kind of compromises you want to make.

2022 Wedding Trends

February 21, 2022
2022 wedding trends are going to make attending these celebrations much more fun and memorable. Look at these six trends that can help make your w edding day one that people will continue to talk about for years to come.
wedding dress trends 2022

2022 Bridal Dress Trends

January 30, 2022
What's a wedding without a wedding gown? The gown is the one element of a wedding that does not have to be downsized or limited in the same way as so many other aspects of a wedding. If anything, the gowns brides desire are more spectacular and show-stopping, whether it’s an intimate back garden wedding or grand event. The dress is not something brides are willing to compromise, so keep reading as we are taking a look at five of the top bridal trends for 2022 to get you inspired.
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