M.O.H.

I have officially been asked to be Claire's Maid of Honor. I am very excited to fill this role because I couldn't imagine not standing by my sweet little baby sister on her big day. Besides, it pretty much gives me permission to voice all of my opinions, right?

So to start this process off right, I did a little research of what it takes to be MOH. It's a big deal, people! I have to fluff. A lot. I had the honor of fulfilling the MOH duties in Rachel's wedding. It was so much fun and I loved every minute of it, even if she did make me sing. But what I learned from the process is that it is an opportunity to love someone in a way that doesn't happen very often.

So here is the official guide to being a MOH:

• Coordinate with the bridesmaids. This could include keeping them informed about fittings, pre-wedding parties, or anything else they need to know. No problem!

• Host a shower with the help of the bridesmaids. This includes planning, setting up, and splitting the costs. Done and done.
• Host, plan, and set up the bachelorette party with the help of the bridesmaids. Absolutely.
• Pay for your wedding day attire. This includes your dress, jewelry, and shoes. The bridal party is responsible for purchasing their own attire; occasionally a very generous and thoughtful bride will purchase these items for you, but don’t bet the farm on it. Darn. I wish I had a farm.
• Help the bride shop for wedding dresses, or at least offer. I am already making appointments.
• Keep the groom’s ring during the wedding ceremony. I am going to need pockets in my dress.
• Arrange the bride’s train at appropriate point in ceremony, if needed. I love to fluff.
• Hold the bride’s bouquet during the ceremony vows. (Be sure to give it back before she trots back up the aisle!) Did they really just say "trots?"  Claire doesn't trot.
• Arrange the receiving line after the ceremony, if applicable. It will be like herding cats.
• Sign the marriage license if needed. Easy enough.
• Toast the bride and groom if given an opportunity-this could be at the rehearsal dinner or at the wedding reception. I live for public speaking.
• Help where needed at reception; make sure bride has a chance to eat and drink something. I will follow her around with a Nalgene and a cupcake.

While most of these are standard procedures and can be performed quite easily, I am MOST EXCITED about this last little nugget:

• Dance in the wedding party dance if applicable. Oh, HECK YES! This is awesome on every level. I never realized that I was supposed to be part of a coordinated effort of both rhythm and movement. It's like the favorite parts of my world (dressing up and dancing) are colliding together in one, big, coordinated extravaganza! I cannot wait for this. CANNOT WAIT.

Rehearsals start tonight.