Selecting Your Bridesmaids In The Philippines

There is no set number of bridesmaids required for a wedding in the Philippines. While a Catholic church wedding requires three bridesmaids for the candle, veil, and cord ceremonies, couples can have as many bridesmaids as they want. The number of bridesmaids is usually determined by the size of the wedding, the number of guests, the size of the venue, and the number of close friends and family members the bride wants to include. Ultimately, the decision is up to the couple, and they can choose to customise their wedding entourage to make it their own.

Bridesmaids' duties

The number of bridesmaids in a Filipino wedding depends on the couple. For a Catholic church wedding, you will need three bridesmaids for the candle, veil and cord. However, many brides opt for more bridesmaids to include their friends and family.

Provide emotional support

This is a non-negotiable duty for bridesmaids. It is important to be there for the bride during the wedding planning, preparations and on the big day. This could be cheering her on as she tries on dresses, offering a listening ear or being there to hold the bride's dress, wipe her tears and fetch her water.

Help plan the festivities

Bridesmaids are expected to help the Maid of Honour plan the bridal shower, bachelorette party and any other events the bride might assign to them.

Lend a hand with wedding-related tasks

Bridesmaids can offer to help the bride with any wedding-related tasks, even if it is just offering moral support. If the bride is making or sourcing items herself, bridesmaids can lend a hand and turn it into a bonding experience. On the wedding day, bridesmaids may be expected to talk to suppliers and guests, and ensure everything is running smoothly.

Give advice when asked for

While it is important to offer honest advice when the bride requests it, bridesmaids should avoid giving unsolicited advice to avoid ruffling any feathers.

Attend the events

Being a bridesmaid means committing to being present at most events, including the despedida de soltera, bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and, of course, the wedding.

Organise your outfit

The bride may take care of the bridesmaids' outfits, hair and makeup, or she may ask you to organise this yourself. Either way, it is important to ensure you look the part on the day.

Get the party started

Bridesmaids are expected to be the first people to take the initiative when it comes to games and dancing at the reception.

Bridesmaids' dresses

When it comes to bridesmaids' dresses, there are a few things to consider to ensure your wedding entourage looks and feels their best. While it's important to choose dresses that align with your wedding theme and aesthetic, comfort should also be a key factor, especially if you're having an outdoor wedding or getting married in the summer. Here are some tips and ideas for selecting stylish yet comfortable bridesmaids' dresses:

• A-line Silhouettes: Consider choosing A-line dresses for your bridesmaids, as this style offers more movement and a breezy feel, especially with a midi length. This style also allows your bridesmaids to show off their shoes!
• Traditional with a Twist: If you're incorporating a Filipiniana theme, you can opt for modern twists on the classic Maria Clara dress. For example, choosing dresses with abbreviated hemlines will allow your bridesmaids to move and dance more freely.
• Full-Length Gowns: If you prefer full-length dresses, you can still achieve a breezy look by selecting a soft fabric like tulle. Flowy, full-length gowns made from lightweight materials will keep your bridesmaids comfortable and elegant.
• Slits and Wrap Styles: Adding a slit to constricting fabrics like silk or satin can instantly make the dress feel airier. Wrap-style dresses are also a comfortable choice, offering both style and ease of movement.
• Light and Airy Fabrics: For outdoor or beach weddings, lightweight and breathable fabrics are a must. Opt for materials like tulle, chiffon, or cotton blends to keep your bridesmaids cool and comfortable.
• Knee-length or Tea-length Dresses: Knee-length or tea-length dresses are perfect for beach or garden weddings. These lengths allow for easier movement and help prevent the hems from getting dirty, especially when walking outdoors.
• Pastel Colours: A pastel palette for your bridesmaids' dresses can add a charming and delicate touch to your wedding aesthetic. Different shades of pastel colours can also be mixed and matched while still achieving a unified look.
• White Maxi Dresses: For a simple and clean look, consider white maxi dresses for your bridesmaids. Lighter colours, especially white, reflect heat, so your bridesmaids will stay cooler.
• Floral Prints: If you want a form-fitting style, floor-length floral dresses can be a great choice. Look for breathable fabrics to ensure your bridesmaids not only look flattering but also feel comfortable throughout the day.

Remember, the dresses you choose should not only complement your wedding theme but also make your bridesmaids feel confident and comfortable as they stand by your side on your special day.

How to choose your bridesmaids

Choosing your bridesmaids is an important task, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some tips to help you select your bridesmaids for your big day:

Start with Family

If you have a sister, she would typically be the first person to ask. If you have a brother that you're extremely close with, including him in your bridal party is also an option. You may also want to consider your fiancé's sister, especially if you have a close connection and spend quality time together.

Best Friends

Think about your lifelong best friends, those who you go to for support and who you connect with emotionally. These friends can be from your childhood or adult life.

Friend Groups

Consider your friend groups and how often you spend time with certain individuals. If you find yourself spending a lot of alone time with someone, chatting regularly, and vibing well together, they could be a good choice for your bridal party.

Exciting Personalities

If there's someone you're not particularly close with but who is easy to get along with and brings excitement to your wedding events, they could be a great addition if you have room.

Work Friends

You may also want to consider any work friends who you have a close connection with. However, this is the group you should feel the least stressed about including, as they can still help you through wedding planning stress without being official bridesmaids.

Other Considerations

• Responsibility and Reliability: Your bridesmaids should be fairly responsible and reliable, as you'll be relying on them for some big wedding planning tasks. They should also be able to provide emotional support and stay organized.
• Budget: Being a bridesmaid can be expensive, so keep your budget and your bridesmaids' budgets in mind. If you know a friend is in a tough spot financially, discuss alternative ways for them to be involved.
• Group Dynamics: Consider how your potential bridesmaids will get along with each other. It's not necessary for everyone to be best friends, but you'll want to avoid any potential drama. Aim for a group that is friendly, cordial, and can transition easily between different groups.
• Number of Bridesmaids: There's no set rule for how many bridesmaids to have. You can have as few or as many as you like. However, keep in mind that a larger bridal party means more details to organize, such as outfits, schedules, and expenses.
• Uneven Numbers: Don't feel pressured to fill positions just to even out the numbers. Talk to your wedding photographer if you're concerned about how your photos will look with an uneven bridal party.
• Other Roles: If there are people you want to include but can't have as official bridesmaids, consider giving them other roles such as usher, ceremony reader, candlelighter, or marriage license witness.

Remember, it's important to make this decision based on your own preferences and comfort level. Feeling comfortable and at ease with your bridal party will contribute to your enjoyment of your wedding day.

The number of bridesmaids

For a Catholic church wedding in the Philippines, the traditional number of bridesmaids is three: one each for the candle, veil, and cord ceremonies. These bridesmaids play a symbolic role in the wedding rituals, standing alongside the bride and taking part in the unity rituals that signify the union of two individuals and the bonding of two families.

However, it is not uncommon for brides-to-be to have more bridesmaids if they have a large family or a wide circle of friends they want to include in their special day. In such cases, the additional bridesmaids can take on other roles, such as assisting the maid of honour, helping with pre-wedding tasks, and ushering guests during the wedding ceremony.

The choice of bridesmaids is typically based on the bride's closest and most trustworthy female relatives and friends. They act as a support system for the bride, helping to ensure she doesn't become overwhelmed with wedding planning and preparations.

Ultimately, the number of bridesmaids is a personal decision, and couples can choose to include as many or as few as they wish. Whether it's a small, intimate wedding or a grand celebration, the presence of bridesmaids adds to the joy and support surrounding the couple on their special day.

The role of the Maid of Honour

Before the wedding, the Maid of Honour is involved in the planning process, offering a second opinion on things like décor, cakes, venues, and dresses. She also plans the bridal shower and bachelorette party, and helps the bride choose her wedding dress and accessories. She is the bride's confidant and emotional support during what can be a stressful time.

On the wedding day, the Maid of Honour assists the bride with her dress, train, and bouquet, and may be asked to hold the groom's wedding band during the pre-vows. She also oversees the rest of the bridesmaids, making sure they are ready for photo and video shoots. She may also be asked to give a speech during the reception, and to sign the marriage contract.

The Maid of Honour is usually dressed slightly differently from the other bridesmaids, perhaps wearing a different cut of dress or carrying a different bouquet. If the Maid of Honour is married, she is known as the Matron of Honour.

Frequently asked questions