The day you're asked to be a bridesmaid for the first time is a very special moment. Over the next few months you'll be spending quality time with the excited bride-to-be during one of the most important times in her life. It's a magical, friendship-affirming experience. For the most part. From making sure you've put out the child of Prague the night before the main event, to learning how to get the bride in and out of her dress, being a bridesmaid is a rollercoaster ride. And it's not always one we're ready for. Here's our take on expectation versus reality when it comes to this all-important role. 1. The hen party. After the wedding day, this is the most important task facing the bridesmaid. And it's important to get it right. The organising of the big event Expectation: Everyone will agree on a date, location and set of activities. It'll be perfect. Reality: Nobody can agree when, where, how or why to do the hen party. The day of the hen party Expectation: The people who say they'll show up show up at whatever glamorous location you've chosen for the big event. At the time you've asked. With big smiles on their faces. Reality: At least two people drop out of the whole thing. The morning of the event. When the hotel, bus transfer, flights, fabulous day activities have all been paid for. By you. This event becomes the most frustrating experience of your life. 2. The dress Expectation: You'll glide down that aisle looking ethereal and perfect just like P. Middy. Reality: You have no say in how you look on the big day. No say whatsoever. Which means you end up looking like this: 3. The holding of the flowers Expectation: How hard can it be to hold a few flowers for a couple of hours? Reality: Wait, why is there water dripping from the flowers onto my dress? Why do I also have to hold the bride's flowers? And her emergency hair and make-up kit? And the little flower girl's hand? 4. The bathroom situation Expectation: The bride is a grown woman. She will be capable of going to the bathroom by herself on her wedding day. She's got this part covered herself. Reality: The bride actually can't go to the bathroom solo on her wedding day. Nope, it's suddenly a two-woman job. At least a two-woman job. Who knew so many tiny buttons and fasteners could fit on one dress? 5. The groomsmen situation Expectation: There'll be at least one good-looking groomsman. And there's a good chance that you'll shift him. Reality: None of the groomsmen are shifting material. Not in the slightest.   Sprite, the truth is refreshing.