Being a maid of honor is not for sissies. I have been bestowed the honor for my soon-to-be sister in law’s upcoming wedding. We have spent countless hours planning the wedding, creating the guest list, locking in vendors. Now we’re finalizing the details. If you think wrangling kids is hard, try wrangling 150 wedding guest RSVPs. You have to master this firm but kind tone that says, “I understand you’re not sure about your work schedule yet, but I need to know if you’re coming. Like TODAY.”
Maids of honor help the brides with these fun conversations. We stay up late addressing thank you cards. We offer an understanding ear when drama arises and a compassionate voice when the stress seems too much. We need to be part therapist and full-time party planner. Good thing I have experience with both!
All skills were needed this last weekend. Possibly the most epic weekend of all the wedding weekends: the bachelorette. You throw 11 girls together with a bunch of food and drinks, and you are bound to have an interesting time. There is never a shorter of laughter, drama, and general craziness. But what I have found time and time again is that when you bring women together for an extended period of time, we form a bond, a sisterhood. I feel as if the bride’s friends have become my friends, and I can’t wait to see them again.
We need this as women. We need these relationships that bolster our mental health, especially as mothers. I spent four days away from my children for the first time in my life, and part of me was an absolute mess. But it was good for me to take time for myself and strengthen my support network of extraordinary women.
In the midst of your crazy life what have you done for yourself lately? I was completely overwhelmed with the holidays and wedding activities, but now, after a weekend away, I feel rejuvenated. I may be completely physically exhausted, but I feel mentally ready to take on the next adventure. And I’m looking forward to telling you all about it.
Jacqueline Pinchuk 