Choosing your Bridesmaids Should Be Fun!

You might already have subconsciously chosen your bridesmaids, but obligation, guilt or reciprocation is starting to creep in and cloud your judgement.

Unfortunately for some brides it can be a catalyst for stress and unnecessary arguments, after all choosing your bridesmaids is meant to be an exciting and momentous occasion.

Before you start feeling stressed over a decision that should be an exciting one,we’re sharing a few of our best tips with you, to remind you what’s really important and show you how to choose your bridesmaids with confidence. The first thing we want you to do is to throw out any ‘rules’ you think there might be when it comes to choosing your bridesmaids.

Ok? Now, keeping reading:

Bridal party size – is there a perfect number?

Should bridal party size be considered when choosing your bridesmaids?Traditionally, there is the same number of bridesmaids as groomsmen, yes. But, before you accept this practice as a given, we want you to consider this. Would you prefer to look at your photographs and see perfect symmetry in the number of men to women, or would you prefer to see the smiling faces of a bunch of people who love you dearly and made your day feel incredibly special?

who can you count on when choosing your bridesmaids?

How to choose Bridesmaids

Although being a bridesmaid is a lot of fun, the role includes some responsibilities as well. When choosing your bridesmaids, it’s worth thinking about who will be helpful to have on your team. Who is always on time and there for you when they say they will be? Or, can you count on them to lift your mood when you’re feeling stressed? These are fantastic qualities to have in your bridesmaids.

Personalities – who is easy to get along with?

Do you have a friend you love dearly, but has a strong take-charge attitude? Consider whether it will be helpful to have someone you can turn to if you start to flounder with wedding planning. Or, will their presence be too dominating among your group of bridesmaids? When thinking about how to choose your bridesmaids, it’s important to consider whether they will get along well in a group. The last thing you need is drama from those who should be supporting you and making things easier (and more fun!).

Finances – can they afford to be a bridesmaid?

Finance certainly isn’t a romantic topic, but weddings and finances are closely tied. Being a bridesmaid can be surprisingly expensive! It can be particularly challenging for your friends who are living abroad or going through a large change in their own lives. Have a thoughtful conversation with them and say something like: “you’re one of my top choices for bridesmaid. Of course, I would love to have you, but if being in the wedding party will be too expensive, there are other ways you can be involved.”

Friends or family – how to choose?

You may have heard that a good rule of thumb for picking bridesmaids is to choose who you have known the longest or who is family. If that feels like a comfortable way for you to choose your bridesmaids, that’s completely acceptable. But, what will probably make you happier is to surround yourself with the women who know you best, the ones who bring out the best in you and make your life brighter.

How to let ladies down

It’s a good idea to get in touch with any ladies in your life who were expecting to be asked, but are not going to be part of your bridesmaid squad. Without going into details, let them know that their friendship means a great deal to you and you’re sorry you weren’t able to include them. Try offering them a different role, like making a toast or being the MC.

How to Choose Bridesmaids

A final word on how to choose your bridesmaids
Choosing your bridesmaids should be about inviting supportive, uplifting and fun women to share this special time of your life. Trust your instincts and be confident in your choice. After reading this, if you’re still worried about letting people down when you choose your bridesmaids, remember that if you handle the situation thoughtfully, everyone should be able to respect your decision.