Having A Large Bridal Party: Is It Too Much?

Deciding on the number of bridesmaids for your wedding can be a tricky task. While there is no right or wrong number, it's important to consider the logistics and potential challenges of having a large bridal party. On average, North American brides have between three and five bridesmaids, but some choose to have many more. Having 14 bridesmaids can bring benefits, such as more support and help with planning, amazing photos, and a guaranteed fun time at pre-wedding events. However, it can also lead to increased expenses, more opinions and schedules to manage, and potential dress drama. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what the bride is comfortable with.

It's your day, so have as many as you want

Ultimately, it's your wedding, so you can have as many bridesmaids as you want! It's your special day, and you should be surrounded by the people you want to be there. If that's 14 bridesmaids, then so be it.

There are no hard and fast rules about choosing bridesmaids. It's not a numbers game, and there's no correct number. It's about the people who make you feel safe and happy, and who you can't imagine your wedding without. If you have 14 people who fit that bill, then that's your answer.

It's important to remember that bridesmaids are there to support you and help your wedding day go smoothly. If you have a large number of bridesmaids, you may want to consider the logistics of the day. For example, a larger group may be harder to keep track of for photos, and there may be more opinions and schedules to coordinate. However, more bridesmaids can also mean more help with wedding planning and pre-wedding events.

If you're worried about the number of bridesmaids affecting the dynamics of the day, there are other ways to include your favourite people. You could give them other roles, such as readings or candle lightings, or ask them to be part of a "house party" – they can still be included in pre-wedding parties and listed in the programme, but without standing at the altar.

At the end of the day, it's your wedding, and you can have as many bridesmaids as you like. Don't be influenced by what other people are doing or what you think is expected – do what feels right for you.

The average number of bridesmaids is four

Deciding on the number of bridesmaids for your wedding can be a tricky task. While there is no "right" number, the average number of bridesmaids is four. This number is based on data from the The Knot Real Weddings Study 2023 and is considered a good "sweet spot" as it is a large enough group that bridesmaid duties are not all assigned to one person, but it is also not so large that the bride is overwhelmed by coordinating a big group.

The number of bridesmaids you choose to have is entirely up to you and your preferences. Some brides prefer to have a large bridal party, while others opt for a smaller group. Ultimately, the decision should be based on who your closest friends and family members are, and who you want standing with you on your big day. It is also important to consider the size of your wedding venue and the number of guests you will have, as a large bridal party may not be feasible in a small space.

If you are struggling to decide on the number of bridesmaids, it may be helpful to consider the duties and responsibilities that come with the role. Bridesmaids are typically involved in planning and attending pre-wedding events, such as the bachelorette party and bridal shower. They also often provide support and assistance to the bride on the wedding day itself. Having a large number of bridesmaids can lead to more opinions and schedules to coordinate, which may increase stress and drama. On the other hand, a smaller bridal party may mean that duties are concentrated on just a few individuals.

While there is no set rule, it is generally recommended that the number of bridesmaids is kept to a manageable size. This ensures that the bride does not feel overwhelmed and that the focus remains on celebrating the wedding day with loved ones.

A large bridal party can cause more drama

The larger the bridal party, the more potential for questions, headaches, and drama. This is especially true when it comes to selecting and ordering bridesmaid dresses, planning the bachelorette party, and coordinating the morning of the wedding. With a large bridal party, it can be challenging to keep track of everyone and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Additionally, a large bridal party can lead to increased expenses for the bride. Hair, makeup, and accessories can quickly add up, especially if the bride is footing the bill for these expenses.

A large bridal party can also cause tension and drama among friends who may not get along or have conflicting opinions and advice. This can put the bride in an uncomfortable position and potentially ruin friendships.

Furthermore, a large bridal party may not be feasible depending on the size of the venue. The ceremony site may not be able to accommodate a large group, which could lead to further disappointment and hurt feelings.

Finally, a large bridal party can cause drama by creating a sense of exclusivity among those who were not invited to be part of it. This can lead to hurt feelings and tension among friends, which is the last thing a bride wants on her wedding day.

While it's important to include your closest friends and family in your bridal party, it's also crucial to consider the potential for added stress and drama that comes with a large bridal party. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, but it's essential to be mindful of the potential challenges that may arise.

It's expensive to have lots of bridesmaids

Having a large number of bridesmaids can be an expensive endeavor for several reasons. One of the main costs is often the attire. Traditionally, the bride pays for the dresses, and with 14 bridesmaids, this can quickly add up. Even if the bride chooses a less expensive option, the cost per dress multiplied by 14 can be significant. And that's before any alterations or accessories are considered! It is often a kind gesture for the bride to pay for the bridesmaids' hair and makeup, and this cost can also escalate with higher numbers.

Then there's the issue of bridesmaid proposals and gifts. While not mandatory, it has become a popular trend for brides to put together creative and personalized proposals for their bridesmaids, often including gifts. With 14 bridesmaids, the cost of these proposals and any additional gifts for the bridal shower, bachelorette party, and wedding day itself can become quite high. The bridal party often plans and pays for the bachelorette party, and with a large number of bridesmaids, the cost per person for any planned activities or travel can be lower, but it still adds up, especially if there are multiple events or a destination celebration.

Flowers are another expense, as the bride often purchases bouquets for each bridesmaid, and with 14, that's a lot of bouquets! Finally, there's the cost of the wedding reception itself. While the bridesmaids may not all bring a plus-one, it is a kind gesture to allow them to do so, especially if they are traveling or have been very involved in the wedding planning. This can result in a higher guest count and, therefore, higher reception costs. While having 14 bridesmaids can be a fun and special experience, it's important to consider the financial implications and plan accordingly.

There's no need to match the number of groomsmen

There is no need to match the number of groomsmen with bridesmaids. This is your day, and you can have as few or as many bridesmaids as you want. There's no right or wrong number—it's completely up to you and your partner, depending on who you want standing with you on the wedding day.

You might feel pressured to choose a specific number of bridesmaids to match the number of groomsmen. But that's not the case, unless you really want those people to be your bridesmaids. If your fiancé wants to include ten of his friends, but you only want to include three of your cousins, don't worry about making the numbers match. An uneven wedding party will still look perfect.

There is no requirement to have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Include those who you want to include, not those you feel you need to include. Your wedding party should consist of your dearest friends who will help you celebrate your wedding day without any stress.

If you are concerned about how your group photos will look with an uneven bridal party, ask the photographer to stage different setups and poses, so it's not just a straight line of people standing beside one another.

Frequently asked questions