Choosing your bridal party is fun and exciting, right? —after all, these are the people who will be by your side during most of the events leading up to the wedding and on the big day itself. However, like many wedding-related tasks, it can also be stressful. How do you know who to choose? What if your friends do not get along together? Should you ask your cousin instead of your college roommate? It can all begin to seem very overwhelming. There are many things to consider when selecting the people who will stand beside you on the big day. Remember, these individuals are your support group, A-team and wedding-day crew. Here’s are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing your perfect bridal party.
Remember That It’s Supposed to Be Fun
If you are torn between picking your girlfriend from college and your best friend from childhood, you should choose the best woman for the job is going to be the one who you enjoy spending the most time with. At the end of the day, you will have a much better wedding experience if you are surrounded by the people, you will have the most fun with. You will be spending a lot of time together in the foreseeable future, including stressful moments so you want to choose someone you genuinely like to be around.
Feeling Obligated?
If there someone you feel you are obligated to have in your wedding party, but you don’t feel especially close with them? consider giving that person another job on the big day. Maybe choose them to do a reading at your ceremony or have them make a toast. Imagine how you would feel if the person you are considering was not in your bridal party. Take into consideration who played a significant role in your relationship over the last few years and ask yourself—who would you miss if they weren’t standing up there next to you.
More Isn’t Always Merrier
You may have 12 besties you can’t imagine getting married without, but don’t feel pressured to ask every one of your friends to be in your party if you’re not 100 percent positive you want them to. Being a bridesmaid isn’t always cheap for the person you are choosing but you shouldn’t assume some friends simply because you don’t think can afford the expense. Plus, if you’re on a limited budget, remember you’re responsible for expenses like bouquets, thank-you gifts, day-of transportation, and accommodations and possibly their hair and makeup.
Finally, Do What You Want
It’s YOUR wedding, so feel free to throw tradition out the window. If you want. There is no book of rules that says you must have a best man and maid of honor. You may want a best woman and man of honor. There is no rule that says your wedding party must be even numbered and dressed all the same. The most important thing is that all your favorite people are standing next to you as you tie the knot.