WEDDING PLANNING TIPS | CHOOSE YOUR BRIDESMAIDS

Congratulations on your engagement! This is such a fun time of life, but it certainly comes with a lot of tough decisions. One of those decisions is, How Many Bridesmaids Should I Have? For some of you, this question is tough because you’re not sure who to “leave out” of this special role. In this post, you’ll learn some of the most important factors in deciding how many bridesmaids you should have.

WHAT’S THE PERFECT NUMBER?

As you probably guessed, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all bridesmaid number, however, there is a general range that most brides enjoy the most. The average range for bridesmaids is about 5-7 bridesmaids with an even number of groomsmen. However, for some brides, this number may feel too high or too low. Keep reading to find out what’s the perfect number for you.

PICK YOUR NON-NEGOTIABLES

There are likely 2-4 women in your life that absolutely must be included. Make your list of these ladies first. For most brides they would include: sister, best friend, childhood friend and maybe one other close relative or future in-law. Start with these ladies and build from there.

CONSIDER YOUR WEDDING DAY

Next, when thinking about your wedding day, who would you really want by your side throughout the entire day? These people will be spending the night, getting ready with you, seeing you in your dress for the first time, standing beside you at your ceremony. Whose friendship has earned this spot by supporting your relationship well?

CONSIDER THE BACHELORETTE TRIP

Who do you want to spend a fun weekend with? It’s possible you could have a smaller bridal party, but still include some extra ladies for the bachelorette trip!

CONSIDER YOUR MARRIED LIFE

Remember that these people aren’t just standing by you for one day, they’re taking on the role of supporting your marriage forever. Who are the people that have stood by your side no matter what? Are there people who weren’t supportive that might not need to be in such an important role?

LET GO OF PEOPLE PLEASING

I know, easier said than done, right? This isn’t about getting everything your way for your wedding, it’s about creating an atmosphere of positivity on your wedding day and your bridesmaids highly affect this. If there is a person you’re afraid to hurt, but they haven’t been supportive of you, this might be the time to address the situation.

ASSIGN VIP ROLES

Are there additional roles you could assign to ladies that are special to you, but might not fit as a bridesmaid? Roles could include: passing out programs, reading scripture during the ceremony or designing a specific detail.

WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU?

At the end of the day, only you know what’s best for you. Use your gut and don’t ignore that nagging feeling telling you not to put a certain person in the wedding party just to avoid conflict. Give yourself the opportunity for a drama-free wedding day by selecting the right group of people to surround you while you say “I do!”

PS – Did you know your number of bridesmaids could affect your wedding budget as well?? To avoid overlooking any wedding budget item, grab the FREE Wedding Budget Worksheet below!