We're still six months out from my sister's wedding and the planning continues. My sister and I took a road trip today to drive our grandmother back to her hometown for a visit. After we dropped her off, my sister and I had the entire return trip home to catch up on all the big day details.

Whether it's a car ride, a lunch date, or a simple phone call, a bridesmaid can be thoughtful by taking time to catch up with the bride. Your friend might just want to share the excitement of booking the perfect band or finding a beautiful rehearsal dinner venue.

Adding bridesmaid tasks to your already busy schedule can be a bit overwhelming, but it's important to keep the bride in focus. Her life is likely filled with highs and lows of exhilaration and frustration. Carve out a moment to stop, look, and listen to her. Right about now, she could use another person to talk with -- anyone but her fiance or mother. She chose you to stand up for her at the wedding so you should find time to sit down with her and lend an ear.