How to Be the Best Friend Every Engaged Couple Needs
Your best friend just got engaged, and the excitement is real! The Pinterest boards are growing, the group chats are buzzing, and wedding planning has officially begun. You want to be helpful—but how do you actually help without adding to their stress?
We’ve all said, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do!” but for a couple buried under countless wedding to-dos, it’s often more meaningful when friends simply step in and take care of things. The good news? There are plenty of ways to lend a hand and make the wedding planning journey a little easier (and a lot more fun).
Before we dive in, a quick note: some responsibilities—like dress shopping, planning the shower, and organizing the bachelorette party—typically fall to the maid or matron of honor. If that’s not your title, no problem! Just check in with her before offering help, and team up where you can. There’s more than enough to go around.
Let’s break down a few ways to help—months before, the week-of, and on the big day itself.
Months Before the Wedding
Help plan the bridal shower
Offer to brainstorm themes, design invitations, or help track who gifted what to make thank-you notes easier later on. Stay to clean up after the event—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference.
Pitch in for the bachelorette
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a night out, lend your creativity and planning skills. Help with bookings, decorations, or the itinerary so the bride can focus on celebrating, not logistics.
Dress and outfit shopping
Wait for an invite to wedding dress shopping—it’s usually a more intimate outing. But you can absolutely offer to shop for outfits for showers, rehearsal dinners, and pre-wedding events. Send links, share inspo, or just tag along for fun.
Honeymoon ideas
If you’re the go-to traveler in your group, send destination inspiration or resort suggestions. You can even share ideas with the groom or partner to help them plan a memorable getaway.
The Week of the Wedding
Airport chauffeur duties
If guests or family are flying in, offer to handle airport pickups. It’s one less logistical headache for the couple and gives you a chance to connect with loved ones before the big day.
Set the vibe
Volunteer to make the “getting ready” playlist. Gather songs the bride loves, bring a speaker, and keep the energy light and fun as everyone gets ready together.
Create a slideshow or photo reel
Collect sweet snapshots from family and friends and put together a slideshow for a shower or the rehearsal dinner. A sentimental touch that everyone will love!
Organize a nail or spa day
Take charge of scheduling a manicure or spa session for the bridal party—and make sure the bride doesn’t pay for her own!
Pet sitting
If the couple has pets, offer to help with walks or overnight care during the wedding or honeymoon. It’s a thoughtful way to show support (and score some quality time with a cute pup).
Day-Of the Wedding
Bring brunch
Pick up breakfast or lunch for the bridal suite. Keep it easy to eat, grab plenty for the family, and yes—don’t forget the mimosas!
Snap the candid moments
While the photographer handles the big shots, use your phone, a Polaroid, or a disposable camera to capture fun behind-the-scenes memories.
Handle the little details
Ask a few weeks in advance if the couple needs someone to monitor the guest book, pass out programs, or help distribute cake.
Pitch in for the wrap-up
When the night winds down, there are always last-minute tasks: collecting gifts and cards, packing up keepsakes, or making sure vendors get their tips. Offer to help the planner—or take on a few of these yourself.
Most of All—Just Be There
Sometimes, the best support doesn’t come with a checklist. Send a sweet text on a stressful day, treat your friend to coffee or dinner without talking about wedding planning, or surprise them with a little self-care gift.
Whether you’re helping with logistics or just cheering from the sidelines, your friend will always remember how you showed up for them during one of the biggest moments of their life.
