Bridesmaid Magic: How Many Are Too Many?

How many bridesmaids is too many bridesmaids? This is a question many brides ask themselves when planning their wedding. The answer is that there is no right or wrong number—it's completely up to you and your partner. However, the average number of bridesmaids is four, and most brides stick to a range of three to six. While some brides forgo the bridal party altogether, others opt for a larger group of bridesmaids to ensure no one is left out. Ultimately, the decision depends on the size of the wedding, the number of close friends and family members the bride wants to include, and the atmosphere she is aiming for.

Average number of bridesmaids

The number of bridesmaids at a wedding is a highly personal choice and there is no right or wrong number. However, according to The Knot Real Weddings Study 2023, the typical number of bridesmaids is four. This number is also supported by several other sources that suggest the average number of bridesmaids falls between three and five.

Some brides opt for a smaller bridal party of just one or two bridesmaids, while others go for a larger group of six or more. Ultimately, the decision on how many bridesmaids to have is up to the bride and her partner, and should be based on who they want standing with them on their wedding day.

There are a few factors that can influence the number of bridesmaids a bride might choose. For example, the size of the wedding venue and the number of guests in attendance can play a role. A larger venue and guest list can accommodate a bigger bridal party. The bride's relationship with her potential bridesmaids is also important; only choosing those she is closest with can help minimise stress and drama.

Additionally, the number of groomsmen can also impact the number of bridesmaids. While it is not necessary to have an even number on each side, some couples may prefer symmetry in their wedding party.

Benefits of a bigger bridal party

While there is no right or wrong number of bridesmaids, and the final decision is completely up to the couple, there are some benefits to having a bigger bridal party.

No one gets left out

You can include your whole list of friends and have a gaggle of supporters up at the altar with you on the big day. This means more love and excitement and no hurt feelings!

Amazing wedding photos

With a bigger bridal party, you can get creative with your photos. Put the bridesmaids in a rainbow of dresses or an ombre fade and then take some stunning pictures.

More hands to help

With a larger group, there will be more people to help with DIY projects and other parts of the wedding planning. Bridesmaids are also more likely to say yes to helping out! Plus, if some friends can’t make it to the dress fitting or the cake tasting, you’ll have lots of other input to make up for it.

Great turnout at pre-wedding events

All of the bridesmaids and their partners mean a good time at your engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette, and other events is pretty much guaranteed.

Other considerations

While a bigger bridal party has its benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks. It can get expensive, even if each bridesmaid buys their own dress. If you want a certain look, you may need to pay for hair, makeup, and accessories. More people also mean more opinions and advice, which can get stressful. Additionally, it can be challenging to choose a dress that satisfies everyone's style and body type, and planning pre-wedding events with a large group of people can be complicated. Finally, keeping track of everyone on the day of the wedding can be difficult, especially when trying to take photos.

Drawbacks of a large bridal party

While a large bridal party can be a fun-filled celebration, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the cost can be high, even if you are not paying for the attire for your bridesmaids. There are still expenses for bouquets, boutonnieres, hair and makeup, and gifts. A large bridal party also means more guests at the rehearsal dinner, especially if they have plus-ones.

Secondly, coordinating a large group can be challenging. Finding the right dress or aesthetic that suits everyone's taste can be tricky, and the more people involved, the more opinions there are to consider. This can also make it difficult to reach an agreement on other aspects of the wedding, such as flowers or decorations.

Thirdly, a large bridal party can increase the chances of drama or tension among the group, especially if they are not all part of the same social circle. This can lead to disagreements or hurt feelings, adding unnecessary stress to the wedding planning process.

Additionally, with a large bridal party, it can be challenging to keep everyone organised and on schedule. Planning pre-wedding events, such as bachelorette parties or showers, can become complicated due to conflicting schedules and budgets. It is important to have a trusted person, like a maid of honour or best man, to help corral the group and keep things running smoothly.

Lastly, while a large bridal party can provide more helping hands, it is important not to treat them like personal assistants. Be mindful of their time and responsibilities, and express your gratitude for their assistance.

Average number of groomsmen

The average number of groomsmen in a wedding party depends on the size of the wedding, the number of bridesmaids, and the preferences of the couple. While there is no "correct" number, the average wedding party size is eight, including four bridesmaids and four groomsmen. However, it is not uncommon for couples to have a different number of attendants based on their personal circumstances.

Some couples prefer to have an even number of groomsmen and bridesmaids for symmetry and to ensure that no one feels left out. This can range from two to three groomsmen on each side, with the same number of bridesmaids, to larger wedding parties of eight or more attendants on each side. Ultimately, the decision on the number of groomsmen is a personal choice and should be based on the couple's closest friends and family members who they want to include in their special day.

The size of the wedding venue and the number of guests can also influence the number of groomsmen. For example, if the ceremony venue has limited space at the altar, the couple may opt for a smaller wedding party with only two or three groomsmen. On the other hand, larger venues can accommodate more attendants, and the couple may choose to include more groomsmen to match the number of bridesmaids or to involve more friends and family members in the wedding.

Additionally, the number of groomsmen can be influenced by the duties and responsibilities associated with the role. Groomsmen typically have various tasks before and during the wedding, such as attending pre-wedding events, offering logistical support, and providing emotional support to the groom. Therefore, the couple may consider the availability and willingness of potential groomsmen to take on these responsibilities when deciding on the final number.

In conclusion, the average number of groomsmen can vary depending on the size of the wedding, the number of bridesmaids, and the couple's preferences. The most important consideration is to choose individuals who are closest to the couple and who will be dedicated to supporting them throughout the wedding planning process and on their special day.

How to decide who to leave out

Deciding on your bridal party can be a stressful experience, but it's important to remember that there is no right or wrong number of bridesmaids. It's your day, so you can have as few or as many as you like. However, if you're struggling to decide who to leave out, here are some tips to help you narrow down your list:

Make a List of "Must-Haves"

Start by making a list of your closest friends and family members who you couldn't imagine getting married without. These are the people who you are closest to and who will be the most supportive throughout the planning process and on your wedding day. If you're finding it hard to choose, consider your expectations of your bridal party and think about which of your friends' tendencies align with the duties and responsibilities of a bridesmaid.

Consider Practicalities

Being a bridesmaid takes a lot of commitment, and having a large bridal party can bring unnecessary stress. Think about the dynamics of your group of friends—will too many cooks spoil the broth? Will there be too many opinions and schedules to coordinate? Also, consider the practicalities of your wedding day—will there be enough space at the altar for a large group of people?

Don't Feel Obliged to Reciprocate

There is no rule that says you have to choose someone as a bridesmaid just because they chose you. If you're no longer close, it might be a little awkward to rekindle the friendship during the stressful time of wedding planning. Similarly, you don't have to include your future sister-in-law if you're not close. There are plenty of other important roles they can play on the day.

Don't Worry About Even Numbers

Don't feel that you have to match the number of bridesmaids to the number of groomsmen. An uneven wedding party is absolutely fine and will still look perfect. If you're concerned about how photos will look, ask the photographer to get creative with different setups and poses.

Remember, It's Your Day

Ultimately, the decision is yours and your partner's. Don't feel pressured to include people out of obligation or because you feel that you have to follow tradition. Choose the people who you want to be first in line to see you get married and who will be there to support you throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions