A lot like a Boy Scout, a bridesmaid or maid of honor needs to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, and thrifty. (Obedient leads the list for Bridezillas!) As the bride's confidant, advice giver and doer of menial tasks, these are some of the responsibilities any bridesmaid should be up for:

1. Help the bride shop for her dress and the bridesmaids' dresses.

2. Give advice on decorations, favors, music, flowers and more.

3. Be a shoulder for the bride to lean on.

4. Help with the rehearsal dinner.

5. Plan (and often host) a bridal shower.

6. Plan the bachelorette party. (Usually the cost is split among the other attendees)

7. Help the bride dress (and not go Bridezilla on anyone) before the ceremony.

8. Adjust her train and hold the bouquet during the ceremony.

9. Toast the bride and her new husband at the reception.

10. Tell others where the couple is registered and where to send gifts.

11. Bonus tip - do it all with a smile!