What do best man and maid of honor do?

Short answer

The best man and maid of honor support the couple before and during the wedding. Before, they help plan, organise the stag or hen do, and manage other attendants. On the day, they give speeches, sign the register as witnesses, and keep the couple calm and organised.

Before the wedding, the best man and maid of honor are the couple's main helpers. They often plan the stag do and hen do, coordinate with other bridesmaids and ushers, and help with practical tasks like addressing invitations, collecting RSVPs, or setting up decorations. They also offer emotional support, especially in the final weeks when stress can run high.

On the day itself, their duties are practical and visible. They help the couple get ready, make sure everyone is in the right place at the right time, and keep phones and emergency kits handy. They give speeches at the reception, usually after the meal, and they act as witnesses by signing the marriage schedule or document. In England and Wales, you need two witnesses aged 16 or over; in Scotland, two witnesses aged 16 or over. The best man and maid of honor are the natural choices, but anyone can witness.

They also help with smaller tasks like holding bouquets, adjusting trains, or fetching drinks. The key is to agree responsibilities early and write them down, so nothing is forgotten. Both roles are about being reliable, kind and present, not about perfection.