Unraveling The Mystery: Understanding The Significance Of 'Moh' In Wedding Planning

MOH is an acronym for Maid of Honour, referring to a bride's principal wedding attendant. The role is usually filled by a close friend or family member, who acts as the bride's confidant and assistant throughout the wedding planning process and on the day itself. The MOH leads the bridesmaids in their duties, which can include planning bridal showers, sending invitations, and decorating. On the wedding day, the MOH may help the bride get ready, hold her bouquet during the ceremony, and make sure she eats, drinks and stays calm. The MOH also has a symbolic role, walking down the aisle and standing with the bride at the altar.

Maid of Honor vs Matron of Honor

The maid of honor and matron of honor are two of the most important roles in a wedding party. But what's the difference between the two, and can you have both?

The Difference Between a Maid of Honor and a Matron of Honor

The main difference between a maid of honor and a matron of honor is their marital status. A maid of honor is typically unmarried, while a matron of honor is married. The matron of honor is usually a friend or relative of the bride and is considered the head bridesmaid. The term "matron" originated in the 14th century to refer to a married woman, usually of "dignified maturity".

Responsibilities of the Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor

Both the maid of honor and matron of honor have similar responsibilities. They are leaders of the bridesmaids and are responsible for planning and hosting pre-wedding events such as the bachelorette party and bridal shower. They also assist the bride with various tasks and projects leading up to the big day and may give a speech during the reception. Additionally, they help the bride get ready on the wedding day, pack an emergency kit, and ensure the bride's train is photo-ready.

Yes, it is becoming increasingly popular for brides to have both a maid of honor and a matron of honor. This is especially useful for larger wedding parties, as it provides double the support and allows for a division of tasks. It is important to ensure that both individuals feel special and appreciated in their roles.

How to Incorporate Both MOHs Into the Wedding

When incorporating two MOHs into the wedding, some ways to make them stand out include having them wear different dresses or accessories, or carrying unique bouquets. For their walk down the aisle, options include walking together, being escorted by the best man, or walking separately. There is no set rule for who stands closest to the bride at the altar, so this can be decided based on the relationship with the MOHs.

Duties of a Maid of Honor

The role of a maid of honor (MOH) is to be the bride's right-hand woman and confidant throughout her engagement and wedding day. The MOH is usually the bride's BFF, sibling, or a close friend or family member. Here is a list of duties that an MOH should be prepared to take on:

Before the Wedding

• Provide emotional support and assistance to the bride with any tasks related to wedding planning.
• Accompany the bride to wedding dress shopping and fittings.
• Lead and mediate any conflicts within the bridal party.
• Be the point of contact for guests and the bridal party.
• Co-host the bridal shower and keep track of gifts received.
• Plan the bachelorette party.
• Attend pre-wedding events such as the engagement party, rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner.
• Help the bride choose bridesmaid dresses and ensure they are ordered on time.
• Create a wedding-day emergency kit.
• Keep the bride calm and stress-free.

On the Wedding Day

• Walk down the aisle before the flower girl and ring bearer.
• Arrange the bride's train and veil at the altar.
• Hold the bride's bouquet during the ceremony and ring exchange.
• Hold the groom's ring if there is no ring bearer.
• Sign the marriage license as a witness.
• Stand next to the groom in the receiving line (optional).
• Enter the reception with the best man.
• Help the bride use the restroom and bustle her train.
• Direct guests and answer any questions.
• Give a speech or toast at the reception.
• Ensure the bride eats, drinks, and stays hydrated.
• Collect wedding gifts if necessary.
• Help the couple with any post-wedding tasks, such as storing the wedding gown or cake.

Being a maid of honor is a significant honor and a fun experience, but it also comes with financial responsibilities. The MOH is usually expected to cover some costs associated with bridal showers, bachelorette parties, attire, gifts, and other expenses.

The history of the term

The term "MOH" is an acronym for "Maid of Honor" or "Matron of Honor", a role that is often given to the bride's sister, best friend, or close friend. The role of the MOH is to provide support and assistance to the bride throughout the wedding planning process and on the wedding day itself. While the specific duties of the MOH may vary depending on the bride's needs and cultural traditions, there are some common responsibilities that are typically associated with the role.

Over time, the role of the honor attendant evolved and became more focused on providing support and assistance to the bride. In the Middle Ages, for instance, the role was often assumed by a young, unmarried woman who was expected to be a loyal companion to the bride and help with various tasks such as dressing the bride and attending to her needs during the wedding ceremony. This concept of having a close friend or sister as an honor attendant began to gain popularity, and the term "Maid of Honor" started to be used more commonly.

By the Victorian era, the role of the MOH had become more defined and was often seen as a position of privilege and honor. The MOH was expected to be a trustworthy and reliable companion to the bride, offering emotional support and assistance with various wedding preparations. This included helping the bride with choosing her wedding gown, planning bridal showers and bachelorette parties, and providing general support throughout the wedding planning process.

Today, the role of the MOH has evolved to include a range of responsibilities, depending on the bride's needs and cultural traditions. While some duties may vary, the MOH is still primarily responsible for providing emotional support, planning pre-wedding events, and assisting the bride on her wedding day. The MOH also often serves as the point of contact for other bridesmaids, family members, and wedding vendors, ensuring smooth communication and coordination.

Who to choose as your Maid of Honor

Maid of Honour, or MOH, is the most important bridesmaid at a wedding. The MOH is responsible for planning the bachelorette party, coordinating the other bridesmaids, buffering or delegating information during the wedding week, and countless other duties throughout the wedding process.

Think of the Responsibilities

The MOH has a long list of responsibilities, so it's important to choose someone who can handle the role. Consider who the bride wants at dress fittings, who she trusts to make executive decisions, who understands family dynamics, who will follow through, and who will make the bride feel calm and comfortable.

Choose the Peacekeeper

Go for someone who will be sensitive to the rest of the wedding party members. Tensions can run high during wedding planning, and the MOH may need to step in and diffuse conflicts to avoid bringing any issues to the bride and groom. They should also be aware of budget constraints and timing issues, and keep a level head during stressful situations.

If You Can't Decide, Consider Your Options

If you're finding it hard to choose between close friends or family members, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Many modern brides are opting for co-maids of honour, allowing them to show gratitude to multiple friends or family members and assign different roles to each.

Choose Your Sister

If you only have one sister and have a good relationship with her, she is often the obvious choice. She is likely to know you better than anyone else and will be happy to take on the responsibilities. This also helps you avoid the difficult task of choosing between friends.

Choose Your Current Best Friend

Your current best friend might be a newer friend, but if she fits the bill, she should be your number one choice. Don't feel pressured to choose an older friend just because you've known them longer. Go with the person you have the strongest connection with.

Choose a MOH Who Understands Their Responsibilities

Being a MOH comes with a lot of duties, so make sure your pick can step up. Consider their strengths and weaknesses, organisational skills, and time-keeping habits. You may love them, but if they're unreliable, they might not be the best fit.

Choose Someone Who Can Afford the Financial Obligations

Being a MOH can be expensive, with costs for dresses, hair, makeup, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and gifts adding up. Discuss these costs upfront with candidates and only choose someone who can comfortably meet these financial obligations.

Don't Feel Pressured

Don't feel pressured to choose a MOH just to keep other family members or friends happy. Your wedding day is your day, and you're entitled to be a little selfish. Choose a MOH that makes you happy, and don't be swayed by others' opinions.

Don't Be Confined to Gender or Tradition

Your MOH doesn't have to be a woman. More and more brides are choosing a Man of Honour. If you have a male best friend or brother who you think would be the perfect person to support you, don't be afraid to break away from tradition.

Don't Be Afraid to Have More Than One MOH

Another modern trend is having multiple maids of honour. If you can't choose between your sisters or best friends, why not have them both share the responsibilities and costs? This is especially beneficial for large or destination weddings, and it's a great way to keep everyone happy.

Remember, it's your special day, and you can choose whoever you want to be your MOH. Go with your gut and pick the person who you know will be the most supportive and helpful throughout the wedding planning process.

What to wear

The maid of honour (MOH) is the bride's principal unmarried wedding attendant, or the most important bridesmaid at a wedding.

There are a few different ways to approach the MOH's attire. One option is to have the MOH match the bridal party by wearing the same dress as the other bridesmaids. Alternatively, the MOH can stand out by wearing a different style or colour. For example, the MOH could wear a different colour that still complements the wedding colour palette, such as burgundy, purple, or gold. Another option is to have the MOH and the bridesmaids wear the same skirt and fabric but with different necklines. This adds variety to the bridal party fashion while still maintaining a cohesive look.

The MOH's attire should be elegant and make her feel beautiful. Popular colours for MOH dresses include gold, silver, burgundy, black, and blue. The MOH can also wear a special headpiece or hair clip to give her an extra touch of shine. If the wedding has a particular theme, the MOH can wear attire that fits that theme. For example, an all-white formal dress code or a Gatsby-inspired look.

It is important to consider the location of the wedding and the time of day when selecting the MOH's attire. For a casual wedding, the MOH can wear a summer sundress or a floral patterned mini dress with wedges or dressy sandals. For a tropical wedding, lightweight fabrics and airy silhouettes are recommended to stay cool in the hot and humid weather.

Ultimately, the decision of what the MOH should wear is up to the bride's preference and what will make the MOH feel comfortable and confident.

Frequently asked questions