A bridesmaid is an important person in a wedding. Some brides even have more than one bridesmaid other than her maid of honour.

The bridesmaid helps the bride in planning the wedding. She assists the maid of honour with bridal shower and hen night. She also helps the bride with errands on the big day.
Crafty brides may need her bridesmaids to help in making DIY wedding favours and decorations, and they will help in arranging the wedding favours as well.

On the big day, the bridesmaids will help with organising or assisting with makeup and hair.
Bridesmaids are expected to bear the expenses for their dresses, accessories, travel and accomodation, although sometimes the bride will cover the expenses. More often than not, bridesmaids will share the expenses for the bridal shower and hen night with the maid of honour.

Bridesmaids will attend pre-wedding parties and rehearsals. During the wedding procession, the bridesmaids will walk right after the bride. They will also stand near the bride during the ceremony.

At the reception, bridesmaids are seated with the bride and groom, and they are photographed as part of the party. They will also have a dance with the groomsmen. At the end of the night, the bridesmaids will help with clearing up, if needed.