10. I live far away from the bride. Am I expected to attend all of the events leading up to the wedding?

You're expected to come to (at your own expense) the shower and of course, the wedding. If you live really far away and can't make it to the shower, call the bride and let her know that you'd love to be there but just can't be. Then send a nice gift to be opened at the shower or have fresh flowers delivered and include a mushy card about friendship. She'll like that. There may also be other events and parties that just are not practical to attend and as much as she'd like you to be there, the bride should be (doesn't mean she will be) understanding.