You are the most significant people at your wedding, but half the fun is being able to celebrate your wedding day with your nearest friends by your side as bridesmaids and groomsmen. You might think you can decide on your bridesmaids and groomsmen, ask them, and that is that. But, there are several other items you'll want to consider before you gather your wedding party.
Begin With Siblings
Including your siblings is the ideal way to start selecting your bridesmaids and groomsmen. If they're a lot younger, you may prefer to have them serve as ushers or junior attendants. If they're near to your age, clearly give them the full-blown honor.
Recognize Level of Dependability
There will be times when you'll want to know you can count on them even though you may not need your wedding party to assist with the wedding planning. If your friend rarely calls you back or continually is late when you have plans, they may not be the correct person for the job. This could particularly be a problem with bridesmaid dress order deadlines and set timelines the day of your wedding. Rather, think about friends who you know will answer your emails, show up when you need them to, and may even be more prepared than you because you are in the middle of all the wedding planning decisions.
Consider Temperaments
Before you ask someone to be in your wedding party, consider how they will get along. That doesn't suggest everyone has to be the best of friends, but if one person on your list has a stronger or abrasive personality and manages to rub people the wrong way, that's possible tension you'll want to avoid if you can. Strive for a group of bridesmaids and groomsmen who are friendly, polite, and can transition easily between groups to quickly cross disputes off of the list of things to fret about on your wedding day.
Watch the Budget
We know that being a bridesmaid or groomsman can be expensive. Even if you're paying part of the tux or dress, with the gifts, the showers, and the parties, the cost can add up. If you recognize that a friend is in a tight place financially, talk it over before making the official request. Make sure they know you'd love to include them, but if joining the wedding party might be too expensive, you have some alternative ideas for them to be involved in the wedding day. Friends make wonderful readers, give excellent toasts at the rehearsal dinner, and could also hand out programs or assist as ushers at the ceremony.
Remember Everyone's Feelings
Having fewer bridesmaids or groomsmen is the simplest method to make sure no one's feelings are hurt. If your choice is between having your sister, your brother, and your childhood friend stand beside you or expanding into two or three friend groups with ten or more bridesmaids and groomsmen, the more modest number could save you a lot of stress in choosing your wedding party. But, if you're dedicated to the concept of a large wedding party, and there's one friend on the fringe, it might be best, including one more rather than omitting them.