Picking bridesmaids is a big decision but there are simple ways to narrow it down.Think about whether your siblings, old friends, or current besties would be good options and then consider if they will be loyal and supportive in the lead up to the wedding and on your special day.If you want an equal number of bridesmaids and groomsmen, you need to consider how much space you have at the altar, as well as how many people your fiancée wants.Enjoy the planning part of your big day.
Step 1: If you are close, include your siblings.
Siblings are a great choice for your bridal party.If you are having a less traditional wedding, don't be afraid to include brothers on your side of the alter as "bridesmen."If you leave out just one sibling from your bridal party, they may feel excluded.If your siblings are younger than you, consider giving them a different role.
Step 2: If you still see each other, pick your oldest friends.
Old friends are a great option for bridesmaids, as you will likely have many shared memories together and your friendship has already stood the test of time.You should keep in touch with friends that are still close to you.Write a list of all the options and consider which ones are closest to you.
Step 3: If you want your friendship to last, pick a current friend.
Your current best friends can be wonderful bridesmaids, as they will likely have been around during your relationship and proposal, and will share your excitement for the big day.It is a good sign that your friendship will last if you have friends that are loyal to you.If you are part of a close friendship group, you should be able to ask just 1 or 2 people to be bridesmaids.You can only have a few people in your wedding party.Make your friends feel included by inviting them to your hen's party.
Step 4: Pick friends that have been in your wedding party.
It is an easy way to help narrow down the list of friends that could be in your wedding party.Do you know if these friends would be a good addition to your wedding party?Don't feel obligated to have anyone in your wedding party.If they aren't chosen, your friends will surprise you with how understanding they are.
Step 5: Look for friends that are reliable, helpful, and calm.
It is important to consider how your bridesmaids will act on the big day.Pick people that will go out of their way to help you plan your wedding and make sure you have a great time.Keep calm and think about what friends are telling you.The friends will make wonderful bridesmaids.
Step 6: There will be many people at the altar.
Measure the space and then work out how many people will be able to stand in a line.It doesn't look cramped if there is a gap between the two people.This is important for weddings in churches and wedding venues.If you can't measure the space, ask the venue how many people they can fit in a line at the altar.The marriage celebrant should be included in your calculations.
Step 7: If you want the photos to look symmetrical, you should use an even number.
If you want to include an extra person in the wedding, don't let the fact that there is an even number of bridesmaids and groomsmen deter you.If the aesthetic of the bridal party is important to you, plan your number of bridesmaids accordingly.Ask your photographer for suggestions on how to make the photos look balanced if you decide to have an even bridal party.There are an average of 4 bridesmaids in America.
Step 8: Ask your partner the number of people they want on their side.
If you don't discuss this with your partner, you could end up with 6 people on your side and only 1 person on his side.If you want different numbers of people, try to compromise or talk it over until you find a solution that works for both of you.If you need to make up numbers in your bridal party, consider asking extended family members, such as cousins to be bridesmaids or groomsmen.