When it comes to the big day, brides and grooms have topped the Richter scale in their stress level. Here are some ways that you, as a bridesmaid or groomsman, can help make their life a little easier.

Groomsmen:

• Tuxes — Make sure you are there to help pick out a tux that makes the groom look good.
• Host — Throw an awesome bachelor party, one the groom won’t forget.
• Details, details, details — You are responsible for all the small things like bringing the marriage license, paying the vendors and carrying the rings.
• Your speech — We all know you want to tell those embarrassing stories about the groom, but add in one thing nice about him.
• Big Day — Do a final check to ensure all of your responsibilities are in order, but most importantly, make sure the groom looks top-notch.

Bridesmaids:

• Dresses — You are the bride’s right-hand woman when it comes to her selection on all of the dresses, including her own.
• Party hardy — Attend every single party leading up to the big day. That includes the engagement party, the bachelorette party, the bridal shower and the rehearsal dinner.
• Gifts — Whether you plan to give the couple one gift or 10, make sure your gift is special and unique.
• Your speech — It can be something sentimental and sweet or comedic and edgy, just prepare for it with plenty of time to spare.
• Big Day — Be the makeup-checking, bouquet-holding shoulder to cry on. Anything she needs today is on you.

The happy couple is maxed out when it comes to their to-do list. Offer them a helping hand by doing something as simple as picking up the cake on the wedding day or scheduling the appointment for a party decorator.

Sarah Hoch, from Celebrations in Ames, said that when it comes to responsibility, the brides’ parents usually take the reins on planning and are also the ones to foot the bill. When it comes to the decorating, nobody has to worry because this is what the hired companies are paid to do.

Parents seem to be the main resource when it comes to finances, but with everything else they need the help of the wedding party. 

Kayse Carter and Rita Gartin, from Pure Bridal in Ames, said it is an even split between the parents and the bride paying for the gown. On a rare occasion, they will see a bridesmaid foot the bill for the dress. Groomsmen and bridesmaids can help by paying for their own outfits and helping to pick them up when they are ready.

“A proactive bride is a happy bride,” Carter said. That includes the wedding party as well. If everyone can stay ahead of schedule that makes for peace of mind for the bride and groom.

The point is that you should go the extra mile to help out the bride and groom. Be the bouquet-holding, ring-carrying, toast-giving friend that you really are. The couple chose you to help celebrate their special day for a reason, and just think, you are free after they say those two little words: “I Do.”