The bridesmaids and groomsmen you select for your wedding day are going to play an important role, both before and during the event. It’s therefore essential, that you select the right people for the task. Here’s some top tips to help you make the best selection for you.
#1: Think first, ask later!
When you’re riding high on the euphoria of knowing you’re getting married, it’s natural that you want everyone involved on the big day. Before you know it though, you’ve promised every girl friend a bridesmaid role and you realise you’ve got more ushers and groomsmen than guests at your wedding!
Give yourself time to think, before deciding on any of the roles. Wait at least a month, so you can go through the roles and the different requirements they carry, before you promise the role to anyone.
#2: Decide on a number
Traditionally, it’s usual to have a single Best Man and Maid of Honour, but this isn’t set in stone. This is an important thing to remember, especially when it comes to selecting suitable candidates (see tip #4).
Another crucial number you’ll want to decide on, is how many bridesmaids you want. There is no limit to how many you have however, if you’re having a small event (under 50 people), it’s usual to have no more than four bridesmaids.
#3: You want your favourite people – not those you’re obligated to
Just because you were once a part of someone else’s bridal party, doesn’t automatically mean they need to be a part of yours. The people you want in key roles are your wedding, are your nearest and dearest, along with your favourite friends.
#4: Fun AND responsible are the key skillsets required!
The role of Best Man and Maid of Honour, along with those of groomsman and bridesmaid, all entail taking an active part in your big day. They also include certain duties too, so pick people you can rely on. Obviously, organising your hen and stag party is one of those duties, so an element of fun is needed – but you do need a balance between fun and responsible.
#5: Include your siblings as bridesmaids
Your siblings are always going to be a part of your life, no matter where you live, who you marry or how you get on with them. Do make room in your plans to include them, unless there’s a strong reason not to.
#6: Rules can be broken
There are no real hard and fast rules, when it comes to the bridal party. Traditionally, it usual to have a Best Man and a Maid of Honour, but roles can be reversed, if you’d rather opt for a Man of Honour and a Best Woman. Another ‘rule’ that can be broken is that of traditionally standing the men on the groom’s side and the women on the brides. You can easily mix it up and intermingle them, if you’d prefer.
#7: Set clear expectations
Finally, let each person in your bridal party know what’s expected of them – and make those expectations realistic. Do you need them to help make wedding favours, collect suits or organise tables? Let them know. If you want your wedding day to go without a hitch, learn to delegate sensibly – and ensure everyone know what’s expected of them and when it’s expected!