Bridesmaids are a huge part of the bride’s wedding day. With all the responsibility that comes along with being a bridesmaid, there are, in fact, little things you can do to make the experience easier and more enjoyable for both you and the bride. Below are the top five to keep in mind.

Offer to help! Some brides have a hard time asking for help because they feel they are bothering their friends or family. You are the person to offer the help before she asks. For example, if the bride says she is stressed about the centerpieces, offer to help arrange them or come up with a design. She will appreciate the gesture. Same goes for favors, invites, etc.

Always SmileThis may seem silly, but keep a smile on your face, especially on the big day. Smile for the photos—look happy, not stressed. No matter the circumstances, these wedding photos will be cherished for years to come. And look at it this way, you have been asked to be a part of a very special day. Be honored and behave that way.

Be there emotionally! To be a part of any wedding can be overwhelming, especially for the bride. There will be laughter. There will be tears. No matter which one it is, make sure she knows that as a bridesmaid you are there for her to lean on, to talk to, and to depend on for anything. A good listener can call emotions very quickly.

Stop complaining! It is known that to be a bridesmaid means that you are going to have to spend some cash. This can be the biggest complaint the bride hears. So, be honest with her. If you can’t afford the dress she wants you to wear, ask her if there is a less expensive alternative, but don’t complain or get angry. It won’t solve anything, and worst of all, will cause an unpleasant feeling between the two of you.

Keep in touch with the bride: With all the chaos of planning a wedding, make sure to check in with the bride whenever you can and let her know how things are going on your end. She will have lots to worry about, so you don’t need to be one of those things. A simple phone call, text, or email every few days will be appreciated.