Keith and Lakyn Photography, Magnolia House Florist
How do you decide who to include in your bridal party? There are so many traditions, expectations, and people involved that it can start to feel overwhelming.
We're here to debunk some common myths you've probably heard about bridal parties and hopefully provide some clarity on this topic. Your bridal party includes all of your bridesmaids, groomsmen, as well as flower girls and ring bearers. These are the people chosen to stand by your side while you exchange your vows, so they should be chosen intentionally.
MYTH: You have to choose a Maid/Matron of Honor and Best Man.
This is completely up to you to decide! There is no rule that states you must have a Maid of Honor or Best Man, so you shouldn't feel any pressure to choose one if you're unsure. Having your closest friends by your side is more important than the titles placed on them, so try not to get wrapped up in the formalities. If you don't have one, make sure there is still someone in charge of planning the bachelor/bachelorette parties so all your bases are covered.
Moonlight Photography, Cali Stott Artistry Candle & Quill Photography, Chelish Moore Florals,
Megan Oliveri Beauty
MYTH: Your bridal party should have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen on each side.
This is totally false and actually doesn't matter at all - you can have however many you want! Whether you choose a few close friends or include your entire friend group is up to you. Having a larger bridal party is more common in weddings with a high guest count, since you should account for bridal party expenses as well. Your bridal party is included in your guest count, but you may have to budget for bridal party proposals, gifts, bouquets, or hair/makeup for each person if you choose to gift your bridesmaids with that.
Moonlight Photography, Florals by Ribald Events, Cali Stott Artistry
MYTH: You should only have one Maid/Matron of Honor and one Best Man.
Who says you can't have two? Sometimes it's impossible to only choose one, especially when feelings are on the line. If you have two best friends, there's nothing wrong with honoring them both! You can select cousins, siblings, friends, or whoever you want, but don't feel forced into selecting just one.
MYTH: You should only have girls for bridesmaids and guys for groomsmen.
Debunked! We are totally here for brides and grooms who go against the grain. We have witnessed grooms who chose their sister as a groomsman and vice versa for the bride! If you are close to someone, you should be able to include them in your bridal party even if they're the opposite sex.
Taylor Ann Photography, Florals by Ribald Events, Cali Stott Artistry
MYTH: There is a set number for how many people you should include in your bridal party.
This is false! There is no required amount of people you should include, since it is completely up to you. I feel like a broken record saying that, but every wedding party decision you make is up to you and you alone. Whether you have 3 bridesmaids and 10 groomsmen or 8 bridesmaids and 4 groomsmen, the choice is yours. Being surrounded by your loved ones is the most important part, so the amount of people included doesn't matter!
MYTH: You have to include your fiancé(e)'s siblings in the bridal party.
You definitely can include their siblings if you'd like, but it is not required. If you're like me and you have a big family, you probably wouldn't expect your fiancé(e) to include all of your siblings and vice versa. This is something that you both can discuss and discern who should be included from your families. If you're closer to one of their siblings than another, then I doubt they will feel offended if they aren't as close anyway. It might be worth it to have a sit-down with your fiancé(e) and chat about your siblings to prevent any hurt feelings.
Chelsea & Jordan Photography, Bookout Blooms, Makeup by Percida
MYTH: You have to elect your brother/sister as your MOH/BM.
This all depends on your sibling relationship and how close you are to them. There isn't a tradition or expectation that says you have to, but I understand that familial pressures could ensue. It all comes down to having an open conversation, so your sibling feels appreciated and included in your big day, even if they aren't in the Best Man/Maid of Honor role.
We hope this has empowered you to create a bridal party that perfectly fits your couple style and personality! Don't be afraid to break traditions in order to make your own :)