If you’re a cash-strapped bridesmaid, don’t start panicking just yet. Be honest with your friend and tell her what you can afford. She obviously wants you to be a part of this wedding, so you should be able to work out some compromises.

What happens on the wedding day? Do I become a beck-and-call girl?
In a sense, yes, but since it’s for your friend it won’t be so bad. Bridesmaids are expected to get themselves ready (on time) for the wedding and help the bride get ready and run any last minute errands she may have.

At the reception, you’re an unofficial host. This means it’s your job to get the party started (by hitting the dance floor) and keep it running smoothly (by mingling with guests, helping them find the restrooms, etc.). You’ll also want to keep an eye on the bride and groom. Many times they’ll be so busy they won’t have time to eat, drink or even sit down. Help them out whenever you can.

“Take a lot of pictures! Brides have a hard time capturing all the fun moments at the wedding because they are so busy, so being able to look at photos your bridesmaids took is really fun,” says recent bride Nikki Hanley.