Bridesmaids A bridesmaid is typically a young woman, often a close friend or sister of the bride. She attends to the bride on the day of a wedding or marriage ceremony. Bridesmaids are required to attend the wedding ceremony and to assist the bride on the day of the wedding. Bridesmaids are also often asked to assist the bride with planning the wedding and a wedding reception. In modern times, a bridesmaid is also typically asked to play a role in planning wedding-related events, such as a bridal shower or bachelorette party. Back To Wedding Party Responsibilities