Who Can Be Your Bridesmaids?

Bridesmaids are members of the bride's party at some traditional Western wedding ceremonies. While the bride can choose any number of bridesmaids, they are typically close friends or relatives of the bride. Traditionally, bridesmaids were chosen from unwed young women of marriageable age, but this is no longer a prerequisite. The principal bridesmaid is called the chief bridesmaid or maid of honor if she is unmarried, and the matron of honor if she is married. Ultimately, it is the bride's decision to choose her bridesmaids, and there is no rule that prohibits married women from being bridesmaids.

There is no rule that bridesmaids must be unmarried

While it is true that traditionally, bridesmaids were chosen from unwed young women of marriageable age, this is not a requirement and many brides today choose to have married friends as bridesmaids. In some cases, the principal bridesmaid or "maid of honor" may be called the "matron of honor" if she is married. Ultimately, it is up to the bride to decide who she wants to include in her wedding party, regardless of their marital status.

It is worth noting that there are different opinions on whether married bridesmaids should be paired with their spouses during the wedding procession. Some people believe that it is disrespectful to separate married couples, while others believe it is perfectly fine for married bridesmaids to walk with a groomsman or by themselves. Ultimately, it is up to the couple getting married to decide what they are most comfortable with.

The bride can decide how many bridesmaids she wants

When deciding on the number of bridesmaids, it is important to consider the budget, as each bridesmaid brings additional costs such as dresses, shoes, accessories, flowers, food, and gifts. The size and layout of the venue can also be a factor, as there may be limited space for a large number of bridesmaids. The formality of the wedding can also influence the number of bridesmaids, with very formal weddings typically having between six and ten, and casual weddings often having just one or two.

Ultimately, the decision on the number of bridesmaids is a personal one, and the bride should choose the people who are closest to her and who she wants to include in her special day. It is important to consider friendship dynamics and try to avoid hurting anyone's feelings by leaving them out.

Bridesmaids' husbands don't need to be in the wedding party

There is no rule that states bridesmaids must be unmarried. The idea that a bride needs to be surrounded by unmarried women is a thing of the past. If your closest friends happen to be married, there is no reason why you can't ask them to be a part of your bridal party. You can refer to them as bridesmaids, and there is no need for a "bridesmatron" title.

Similarly, there is no need for bridesmaids' husbands to be included in the wedding party. They can simply attend as guests. One option is to pair bridesmaids and groomsmen who are married, but this is not necessary. It is perfectly normal for bridesmaids to have husbands who are not in the wedding party.

Ultimately, it is your wedding, and you can decide who you want to include in your bridal party. You can ask whoever you want, and there is no need to worry about titles or outdated rules.

The bride can choose her sisters and/or closest friends as bridesmaids

The bride can absolutely choose her sisters and/or closest friends as bridesmaids, regardless of their marital status. The idea that a bride needs to be surrounded by unmarried women is outdated and, unless all your closest friends happen to be unmarried, it is best to disregard this notion. Being a bridesmaid is more like being a "Ms." than a "Miss."

If you have your heart set on a certain number of bridesmaids, it is worth noting that the size of the wedding party is often indicative of the family's social status and wealth. However, this tradition is not as prevalent today, and the number of bridesmaids in a wedding party is now largely dependent on the bride's preferences, the size of her family, and the number of attendants her partner would like to have.

It is also important to consider the dynamics of your social group when choosing your bridesmaids. For example, if you have two sisters and three best friends, you may want to ask all five to be bridesmaids to avoid hurting anyone's feelings. Alternatively, you could have a smaller bridal party and risk upsetting someone.

When it comes to married bridesmaids, there is no need to worry about their husbands being in the wedding party or not. If their husbands are not included, they can simply attend as guests. Many people have shared their experiences of having married bridesmaids whose husbands were not in the wedding party, and it was not an issue. However, it is essential to consider the feelings of the married couple and whether they would be comfortable being separated during the wedding. Some couples may prefer to be included in the wedding party together, while others may be happy to sit in the audience or be included in other ways. Ultimately, it is your wedding, and you can decide what works best for you and your bridal party.

The bride doesn't have to include someone as a bridesmaid just because she was theirs

Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when it comes to deciding who will be in your bridal party. It's important to remember that it's your special day, and you get to choose who stands by your side.

One question that often comes up is whether a bride has to include someone as a bridesmaid just because she was theirs. The short answer is no. You are under no obligation to reciprocate, especially if it was a long time ago or if your relationship has changed since then. Wedding planning involves making decisions that are right for you, even if they might be seen as unconventional or impolite. A true friend will understand that your bridal party selection is a personal decision.

That being said, it's natural to feel some pressure or worry about offending someone by not asking them to be a bridesmaid. If you're concerned about maintaining your friendship, there may be other ways to involve them in your wedding. For example, you could ask them to do a reading during the ceremony or help with pre-wedding events like the bridal shower or bachelorette party. This way, they can still feel included and special without being part of the bridal party.

Ultimately, the decision of who to choose as your bridesmaids is a personal one, and you should select individuals who you feel closest to and will provide you with the support and joy you need on your big day. Don't feel pressured to include someone just because you were in their bridal party; instead, focus on surrounding yourself with people who will make your wedding day even more memorable and meaningful.

Frequently asked questions