Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and having your closest friends and family members by your side as bridesmaids and groomsmen can make it even more special. However, choosing your wedding party can be a daunting task. Who should you pick? How many people is too many? And how can you ensure everyone gets along? Don’t worry! We’ve broken down five essential rules for choosing the right members for your wedding party. Plus, we’ll share some thoughtful ways to involve other important people who may not make the wedding party cut.
Rule #1 - Start With Siblings
Siblings often play a vital role in the wedding day. Whether they’re close in age or much younger, including them as bridesmaids, groomsmen, or even junior attendants is a wonderful way to celebrate family.
Rule #2 - Emphasize Reliability
Choose people who you can count on. While it’s tempting to pick friends who are fun and exciting, reliability is key when it comes to planning a wedding. You want people who will show up on time, answer calls, and handle tasks responsibly.
Rule #3 - Consider Personalities
Your bridesmaids and groomsmen don’t need to be best friends, but they should get along. Avoid potential personality clashes by selecting people who are friendly and easygoing.
Rule #4 - Be Mindful of Budget
Serving as a bridesmaid or groomsman can be expensive. If you know someone is struggling financially, have an honest conversation before making your final decision. There are plenty of ways they can still be involved without taking on the financial burden of being in the wedding party.
Rule #5 - Think About Feelings
When deciding who to include in your wedding party, be mindful of feelings. A smaller, tight-knit group may be easier to manage than a large, sprawling party. On the other hand, leaving out a close friend may hurt feelings, so consider expanding your group if necessary.
Other Roles for Family and Friends
If you’ve decided on a small wedding party but still want to include other special people in your celebration, there are plenty of roles they can fill. Consider asking them to serve as ushers, ceremony readers, or processional escorts. These roles still allow them to be part of the big day without the formal responsibilities of being in the wedding party.
Build the Perfect Wedding Party
Choosing your bridesmaids and groomsmen is about finding the right balance of close relationships, dependability, and thoughtfulness. Follow these five rules to ensure your wedding party is not only a reflection of your closest relationships but also a source of support and harmony on your big day.