You have been "besties" for what seems like forever! Naturally, you're going to be the Maid of Honor! You said "YES OF COURSE!" to your dear friend when she asked, you both hugged, shared a lil' tear and embraced the moment. So now what???? What is to be expected of you? Don't worry, your friend will stress enough over this wedding for the both of you, lol. We want to give you a few tips to make this process as special as your friend is and have her thanking you for everything with the biggest of smiles by the big day!

Tip #1: Finding out what your duties are!

We recommend going to lunch with your friend and bringing a notebook! Talk about all she needs or expects of you from the process and write it down!! This way, nothing creeps up on you that you're not prepared for, there's nothing she assumes you will do that you're unaware of and it eliminates any potential fussing down the road.

Tip #2: Planning the Shower!

Was planning the Bridal Shower on that list you guys made? If so, don't panic, we have some pointers!

-Pick a theme and color scheme and stick with it!

-When picking your theme and color scheme, make sure it's something the bride will love but that is easy for you to find things that will match!

-Ask family members that love the bride to step in and help you with this! Chances are, they will be so happy they get to help, you won't have much to do because they will almost take over the project. DO make SURE you keep a good over view of this so that it remains a party the BRIDE will enjoy!

-Focus more on the games you will plan and what you will "do" than how you will decorate. You can have all the decor in the world and not throw a memorable shower. Look up fun games that will keep you all laughing. Laughter and smiles are the key to a great shower!!

-Now that you have freed yourself up a bit with the shower by bringing in family to help, start thinking about what you're going to do for her bachelorette party! You do not bring family in on this one. Get a list of all the bridesmaids though and delegate tasks for them for the special night out. And please, if your friend isn't the type to "party" but you are, don't make her. Plan something SHE will love. It isn't about you or the other girls. It is only about HER! :) At the same time though, if you are not a party animal and the bride is and you're just not good at planning this sort of night out, bring in a bridesmaid that is to co-plan with you. Remember, it's all about the Bride!!

-For any and all parties or showers, your goal is not to embarrass the bride! Your goal is to make sure she has a fun and memorable time with whatever you do or give her to wear. ;) Have fun......but not at her "expense".

-Speaking of expense, there's no need to ever break the bank. Doing so can leave you frustrated and your friend will be able to see that. You don't want it to come between your friendship. Stay focused on making things a good experience rather than pretty if you have to choose between the two. And don't be afraid to ask the other bridesmaids for help! :)

Tip #3: What Will You Do or Give Her To Remember All This?:

-Buy a scrapbook with removable pages, and mail a page to all of the bachelorette's girlfriends. Ask everyone to decorate one side with photos of herself and/or the bride, funny quotes and memories, a letter, mementos of their friendship, etc. On the other side, have them write out their favorite recipe. Put it back together, wrap it up and give it to her during the party. She can keep it forever and will think of you always with a smile!

Whatever your duty may be as your friends Maid of Honor, just remember to keep it sweet, keep it fun and keep to a budget. Good Luck!