Choosing the right bridal party is the key to a stress free and successful wedding. You have to make sure you choose friends and family members that will not only help you on the day of the wedding but be there for you during the planning process. We give you our top tips to help you choose your bridesmaids.
Image courtesy of Joanna and Tristan’s real wedding
Quality over quantity
As tempting as it is to have as many bridesmaids as you possibly can, remember one thing, its quality over quantity. Planning your wedding is a stressful process, there are 101 things you need to plan, research, book, taste, try, hire and order. The last thing you want to do is add more to that list. You will need to plan and organise your bridesmaid’s attire, the more people you have the more complicated this process will become, and the more disagreements you are likely to have. In this particular situation the more the merrier does not apply. Instead, concentrate on choosing girls (or boys) who will be able to make your planning process a whole lot easier.
Image courtesy of Hayley and Mark’s real wedding
Keep it in the family
Picking one bridesmaids from the potential in laws is the perfect family bonding strategy and one that will set the tone for your future married life. Bonus point, your partner will appreciate you making the gesture.
Image courtesy of Laura and Kenneth’s real wedding
Bring up the past
Your bridesmaids will be people who you’ve known for a while, whether that’s one year or 20; chances are you are going to know them pretty well. You will have an insight in to who they are and what they are capable of, allowing you to predict the outcomes of their involvement in your wedding. Is the person you considering responsible? A good organiser? A scatterbrain? Selfish? Forgetful?
Image courtesy of Anna and Gavin’s real wedding
Don’t assume they’ll say no
If you have a friend or family member you know who has had financial difficulties or is currently going through a difficult time with their finances don’t assume they’ll say no. Tell her or him that you would love for them to be youy bridesmaid and that you understand their financial difficulties. It will be up to them if they want to accept the role. They will appreciate you understanding their situation. If they decline you can still ask them to help with smaller tasks.
Image courtesy of Jill and Colin’s real wedding
Ask them what their plans are
If any of your maids are planning to start a family, move away or change careers these factors will affect their role as your bridesmaids. Asking them these questions is vital for you to select the right people. Planning around their schedule will be the last thing you want to do. As bridesmaids they will be expected to attend appointments, fittings, parties, and so much more, and a busy maid won’t be able to do this.
Image courtesy of Hayley and Mark’s real wedding
Doesn’t have to be a woman
It’s not uncommon to have a male best friend, and the thought of excluding him from your bridesmaid party because of his sex isn’t fair. This is why the rise of the male bridesmaid has increased over the years. His role can be exactly that of the female maids, the only difference may be the attire. He may not want to wear a dress like the girls. No matter what he decides to wear, remember to accessorise his outfit so that it matches the female bridesmaids. If he decides to wear a suit, you could match his tie or cravat to the colour of the bridesmaids dresses and his buttonhole can be made from the same flowers as the girls’s bouquets.
Image courtesy of Helen and Paul’s real wedding
There is no limit on age
Being your bridesmaid is an honour and a role many of your loved ones will love to accept. Keep in mind some duties may not be suitable for younger members of the party but there are no restrictions for the older ladies. So if you’re considering your aunt who may be 60, go for it!
Image courtesy of Anna and Gavin’s real wedding
When you’ve decided find a creative and inspiring way to ask them. Being part of your day is something they will want to cherish for the rest of their lives; and there’s no better way of doing this than with a memorable keepsake.
Featured above, DIY Bridesmaid Proposal Tutorial
Love this? Need more advice?
If you have an innate need to please everyone while wedding planning our Are you a Bride-to-be with Martyr Syndrome? is perfect for you.
