How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Party

You've been dreaming about this day since you were little. You have all the details planned, from the dress to the favors. But choosing a wedding party can be very difficult. Here's how to keep it simple.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. First, decide about how many attendants you would like for your wedding. A good general rule is one bridesmaid and one groomsman for every 50 guests you invite. Of course, this is not set in stone. It is your wedding and your choice.

2. Once you have an idea of how many attendants you would like, make a list of possible attendants. Just list everyone you would consider to be an option. You should list siblings, friends, co-workers or whoever you feel will support you best on your big day and in the months leading up to it.

3. 
    

   Compare lists with your future spouse. Does he have a list of 15 and you have a list of 3? That's a problem, but not an unsolvable one. If one of you has a long list, name each person and why you chose them. If you don't have a good reason, cross them off. And don't think you're being rude - they'll still be at the wedding!

4. Think outside the box and don’t be afraid to break the “rules”. If your best friend is your grandmother, it’s okay to ask her to be one of your attendants; remember, there’s no age limit! Likewise, if you’re a bride whose best friend is a man, it’s okay to ask him to be your “Man of Honor”.

5. Tip: Don’t automatically choose someone because you were an attendant in their wedding, and don’t automatically count someone out if they didn’t invite you to be in their wedding. Make your decision based on your current situation, and choose people you love who will stand by you no matter what.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people may get offended when they learn you have not chosen them. Be polite but firm; explain that it was a difficult decision to make but you made what you feel is the best decision. You do not owe anyone an explanation about why Sally was chosen instead of her. If they still disagree with your decision, say something like “This is my day and I’m entitled to make these decisions. I’m sorry.” Don’t let anyone bully you into doing what they want on YOUR wedding day!

[xivyisazombiex]

on 11/12/2009 thank you for the suggestions.

[theindianabroad]

on 11/8/2009 You may want to check out these tips:
30 Tips on planning and hosting a wedding
http://www.theindiansabroad.com/2009/10/30-tips-on-planning-and-hosting-a-wedding/

[mjc1978]

on 10/27/2009 Very informative and well written. 5* and a rec.

[emmysgreetings]

on 10/26/2009 Great article on how to choose the perfect wedding party! 5*s

[poohjee]

on 10/23/2009 Great article! I hadn't even thought of how potential difficult it could be to choose a wedding party!