Great girlfriends are irreplaceable, indispensable and intricate parts of our lives. (I know I certainly could never live without mine!) Your maid of honor is a wonderfully important person in your wedding, and who you choose can have a big impact on your whole wedding planning experience. Whether she’s your big sister, your best friend, or someone else entirely, be sure to choose someone who you love and trust, who makes you feel fantastic when you’re around her, and who has the time, energy and enthusiasm to really stand by your side from beginning to end. When you ask her, be very clear about the role you would like her to play, and give her time to think it over to be sure she feels up to the job.

The traditional responsibilities of your maid of honor usually include the following. Use this list as a reference point and add and subtract duties that are specific to your wedding and to your personal style:

• Your maid of honor will help you pick out your wedding dress and the look for the whole bridal party. She’ll help coordinate fittings, and help ensure everyone in the wedding party arrives at your wedding with all the items they should have with them.

• She will throw you a bridal shower and bachelorette party, buy her bridesmaid’s dress and give you a wedding gift. A Maid of Honor’s expenses can really add up, so keep her resources in mind and be aware if you are expecting her to reach outside her financial comfort zone. Consider contributing funds yourself if the items or events that are important to you come with a big price tag.

• She will tactfully let people know where you’re registered for bridal shower and wedding gifts.

• She’ll be the go-to gal for all kinds of information when you’re not available- where the rehearsal dinner is, what time to arrive at the ceremony, where to get parking validated, and who’s responsible for which delegated duties. Be sure you let her know any important information that you think people may be asking her.

• On the big day she’ll help you get dressed and ready, walk down the aisle in front of you, straighten your veil after you arrive at the altar, hold your flowers and his ring during the ceremony, sign your marriage license, bustle your dress before your reception, and run interference- acting as backup hostess when appropriate so you can stay calm and relaxed throughout your day.

Your Maid of Honor is there to lend her support to you, but don’t forget to support her as well. Be considerate and grateful for all she's doing to bring your wedding to life, and your friendship will continue to grow long after your wedding day!