Best Ways to Pick your Bridal Party

Just like your wedding dress, your wedding invitations, and your wedding theme, your bridesmaid selection should ultimately come down to whatever makes you happy and whatever feels right. There are certain rules of tradition, which may help steer you toward the right direction, but in this case your instincts will probably serve you well. Consider the following before making your list of maids!

The Numbers Game

Traditionally, there is one bridesmaid for every groomsman in the wedding party. This is one rule that many brides get unnecessarily stuck on. We guarantee no one will care if your “numbers” don’t match (if they even notice). In fact, mismatched couples (a bridesmaid on each arm of a groomsman, for example) can be a totally appropriate and even charming arrangement.

In terms of bridal party size, it should be somewhat proportionate to the size of the wedding itself. For a very small, intimate gathering, a huge bridal party will seem out-of-place and overwhelming. Again though, this rule doesn’t always apply. Even for the most extravagant of weddings, 2 or 3 attendants can be a classy choice.

Keeping it in the Family

We all know the “rule” here. Blood is thicker than water. In an ideal situation, you would want to include your sister(s) and sister-in-law(s) and potentially your cousins or other family members, and would be excited to ask them, but this is not always (if ever) the case. Just keep in mind that if you choose to exclude a relative for any reason, it will possibly be a point of tension for years to come.

Take Attendants

Many modern brides are choosing to nix the “maid” term altogether and include both male and female friends in their bridal parties (in which case, the men are simply called “attendants”). If you can’t imagine getting married without your best childhood friend by your side, and that friend just happens to be a “he,” we think that’s no reason to exclude him from your lineup.

Be a Task Master

Don’t forget all the other important duties you can ask your loved ones to perform. Cousins, friends, and other loved-ones can easily be asked to do a reading at the ceremony, guard the guest book, or any other miscellaneous tasks. They will be honored, and you’ll be happy to have them as an “official” part of your day.