Selecting The Perfect Number Of Bridesmaids For Your Wedding

Choosing your bridesmaids is one of the first things you'll think about when planning your wedding. While some brides-to-be already know who they want by their side on the big day, others may find it a difficult decision. The number of bridesmaids you choose is a personal choice and there is no right or wrong number. However, there are some things to consider when deciding how many bridesmaids to have. The size of your wedding, your budget, the venue, and the formality of the event can all be factors in determining the number of bridesmaids. The average number of bridesmaids is typically between three and five, but anywhere from one to twelve is considered normal. Ultimately, it's your wedding, and you can choose as many or as few bridesmaids as you want.

There is no 'correct' number

There is no correct number of bridesmaids to have at your wedding. While some brides may opt for a large bridal party, others may choose to forego bridesmaids altogether. Ultimately, the decision of how many bridesmaids to have is a personal one and should be based on what feels right for the couple.

One reason to have a bridesmaid-free wedding is to avoid the stress and expense that comes with having attendants. Bridesmaids often incur significant costs, such as purchasing matching gowns, attending pre-wedding events, and covering hair and makeup. By opting out of bridesmaids, couples can save money and avoid the stress of coordinating a large group.

Another reason to forgo bridesmaids is to keep things simple and avoid any potential drama or hurt feelings among friends. Choosing a handful of bridesmaids can be a difficult and awkward task, and it's natural to worry about leaving someone out. Without bridesmaids, you can avoid these social complexities and focus on your own wedding preparations.

However, not having bridesmaids doesn't mean you have to miss out on support and companionship during your wedding journey. You can still involve your closest friends and family members in other ways, such as getting ready together, going dress shopping, or having them perform a reading during the ceremony.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have bridesmaids is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and couples should choose what feels most authentic and meaningful to them.

The number depends on the wedding size

The number of bridesmaids you choose to have at your wedding is entirely up to you and can depend on the size of your wedding. If you're planning a large wedding with a big guest list, you may want to consider having a similar number of bridesmaids. This can create a sense of balance and ensure that you have enough support on your special day.

On the other hand, if you're planning a more intimate wedding with a smaller guest list, you may prefer to have a smaller number of bridesmaids or even forgo having any bridesmaids at all. This can create a more relaxed and personal atmosphere, allowing you to focus more on your closest friends and family.

Ultimately, the decision on the number of bridesmaids is a personal one, and you should choose what feels right for you and your wedding. If you have a large group of close friends and want to include them all, go for it! If you prefer to keep things simple and intimate, that's also a valid choice.

Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment, so choose what will make you and your partner happiest.

Consider the budget

While there is no right or wrong number of bridesmaids, and the final decision is yours, it's important to consider your budget when deciding on the number. Bridesmaids don't come cheap, and each additional bridesmaid will bring costs. These costs include the bridesmaid's dress, shoes, jewellery, accessories, flowers, food throughout the day, a gift, and transportation to the venue. Many brides also pay for their bridesmaids' hair and makeup. If you want your bridesmaids to look a certain way, it's generally your responsibility to pay for it.

Before asking your friends to be bridesmaids, consult your wedding budget. Consider how many bridesmaids your budget can accommodate. If you have a large budget, you may be able to afford a dozen bridesmaids. On the other hand, if you're working with a smaller budget, you may need to limit the number of bridesmaids. For example, if you're paying for their dresses, hair, and makeup, a smaller number may be more feasible.

In addition to the financial considerations, keep in mind that having more bridesmaids means more opinions and schedules to coordinate. This can add to the complexity and stress of wedding planning. Therefore, it's essential to strike a balance between your budget and the number of bridesmaids you can comfortably manage.

When deciding on the number of bridesmaids, be mindful of your financial limitations and the time and effort required to coordinate a larger group. While you may want to include all your close friends, it's crucial to stay within your budget and manage the planning process effectively. Remember, each bridesmaid brings additional costs, so choose a number that aligns with your financial means and the level of complexity you can handle.

Think about the venue

When it comes to choosing your bridesmaids, there are a few things to consider, and one of the most important factors is the venue. The size and layout of the ceremony room will impact how many bridesmaids you choose and how they will be arranged during the ceremony.

If you're getting married in a small space, like a registry office or a country hotel, consider how many people will realistically fit in the room. You may need to limit the number of bridesmaids or be okay with them sitting down once they reach the end of the aisle. On the other hand, if you're getting married in a grand ballroom, having only a couple of bridesmaids may look a little odd.

Think about how you want your wedding photos to look. Many brides prefer to have an even number of bridesmaids so that the bride can stand in the middle of group photos and not look off-centre. However, there are ways to get around this with an odd number of bridesmaids, such as having the bride sit down with a bridesmaid standing behind her.

The formality of your wedding can also guide your decision. While there are no hard and fast rules, very formal weddings typically have more bridesmaids than casual weddings. For example, a black-tie wedding might have between 6 and 10 bridesmaids, while a casual beach wedding might have just a couple.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose the people you want by your side on your special day, regardless of the venue or any other factors.

The formality of the wedding

The number of bridesmaids you choose can be influenced by the formality of your wedding. While there are no hard and fast rules, certain traditions and expectations can guide your decision.

Very formal weddings, such as black-tie events, often feature a larger number of bridesmaids, typically ranging from 6 to 10, or occasionally up to 12. These weddings usually include additional participants like flower girls and page boys. The grandeur and elegance of a formal wedding can be accentuated by having a larger bridal party.

On the other hand, semi-formal to formal weddings generally have a more modest number of bridesmaids, typically between 2 and 6. This range strikes a balance between the formality of the occasion and the desire to have your closest friends by your side.

For casual weddings, elopements, and registry office weddings, a more intimate approach is often preferred. These weddings usually have just one or two bridesmaids, or sometimes none at all. This creates a relaxed and simple atmosphere, allowing you to share this special moment with a select few.

It's important to remember that these are merely guidelines, and you can tailor your bridal party to your preferences. If you have a large budget for a casual beach wedding, feel free to include a dozen bridesmaids. Conversely, if you're having a super-formal wedding but only want your two best friends by your side, that's entirely your choice.

The formality of your wedding can provide a starting point for deciding on the number of bridesmaids. However, it's crucial to consider other factors as well, such as your budget, venue size, and friendship dynamics. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels right for you and ensures you have the support and company of those you hold dear on your special day.

Frequently asked questions