A lot of posts and replies hint at this notion that bridesmaids aren't supposed to be responsible for anything except dressing appropriately, walking down the aisle and smiling in pictures. They are only really there to "support" you and shouldn't be asked to do anything.
Please explain how this makes a bridesmaid any different from a guest you have invited to support you on this special day?
I really don't know who is going to handle things like recording all the gifts people give us, or make sure that something isn't forgotten last minute if I can't ask the women in my WP to do them. I thought that was the point of a WP...to help you.