Lady in waiting

When our editor, Christine, told me she had a "lady in waiting" for her wedding day, I was intrigued. What does said lady DO that your bridesmaids, mom or mother-in-law can't help with?! Well, all sorts of things apparently. Take it from Christine, herself...

When my aunt and uncle surprised me with a lady in waiting for my wedding day, I wondered the very same thing! But she quickly proved herself absolutely indispensable! My lady in waiting steamed the dresses and tuxedos of the bridal party along with my gown and veil. She then cleaned my engagement ring and the wedding rings to get them photo ready and helped collect items for the photographer to use for those detail getting ready shots (invitations, jewelry, shoes, perfume, and accessories). She also dropped off all the bridesmaids' and groomsmen's belongings at the coat check of the hotel when we were done in the getting ready room so they could easily be retrieved after the night of festivities.

My lady in waiting had a nice little emergency kit on hand throughout the day for headaches, wardrobe malfunctions, hair and makeup touch ups, etc. It absolutely came in handy when a hook and eye closure popped on a bridesmaid's dress and when I basically cried off my false eyelashes! She also had tissues, which I used about 100 of during said crying, and water bottles to keep us all hydrated throughout the photos. She held up my train and sheltered me with an umbrella when we were walking in the snow and slush (my wedding day was complete with a very ugly winter storm), and she expertly bustled my train for the reception.

Basically she was like having a personal assistant who remained by my side throughout the day while my wedding planners were focusing on the logistics of the event. My lady in waiting made sure I didn't have to lift a finger, that everything went smoothly, and that we looked our best. It was so nice knowing my mom and bridesmaids could really relax and enjoy the day with me, and we could all spend time together instead of worrying about those little details!