Selecting Your A Team: The Art of Choosing Your Dream Wedding Party- Part 1
While the two of you are the most important people at the wedding, a big part of the fun of getting married is being able to plan and celebrate your big day with your closest family members and friends by your sides without unneeded stress. This special group will stand by your side offering support, laughter, and shared memories throughout your wedding journey. The selection of right individuals for your wedding party is such an important decision, as they will play a significant role in helping you create the wedding of your dreams.
Here are some things you will want to consider and key tips that will help you choose the right individuals to serve as members of your wedding party.
Consider Your Closest Relationships:
Start by considering your closest relationships and the friends or family members who have been there for you through thick and thin. Think about the people who have supported you, celebrated milestones with you and have stood by you through challenging times. These are the individuals who are likely to understand your needs and be genuinely excited to be part of your wedding party. Whatever you do, don’t forget there is nothing stopping you from making your brother a ‘bridesman’ or for your groom to make his sister a ‘groomslady’! There are no longer any rules!
Consider Size and Balance:
Determine the ideal size for your wedding party. While there are no hard and fast rules, keep in mind that a larger bridal party will require more coordination and can sometimes be more challenging to manage. A larger wedding party can add energy and excitement. A smaller wedding party can create a more intimate and focused experience. Strive for a balance that feels right for both of you; keeping in mind such items as your wedding vision, budget and venue capacity.
Consider Personalities and Compatibility:
Think about how your wedding party will get along. Consider the personalities and compatibility of potential wedding party members. Your wedding party should be a group of individuals that can work together harmoniously and contribute positively to the planning process. That doesn’t mean everyone has to be the best of friends, but if one person on your list has a stronger—or even abrasive—personality and tends to rub people the wrong way, that’s potential drama you’ll want to avoid if you can. Aim for a group of bridesmaids and groomsmen who are friendly, cordial, and can transition easily between groups so that you can quickly cross “fights between friends and family” off the list of things to worry about on your wedding day. Remember to prioritize support and positivity!
Consider Availability and Commitment:
What is the availability and commitment of potential wedding party members? Being a part of a wedding party requires time, energy, and financial contributions. Consider everyone’s availability to attend pre wedding events, attire fittings, and rehearsal. Be confident that they are willing and able to fulfill their responsibilities with enthusiasm and dedication.
Emphasize Reliability
While you may not need your bridesmaids or groomsmen to participate too much in planning your wedding, there will be moments when you’ll need to know you can count on them. If your friend almost never calls you back or constantly shows up late when you have plans, they may not be the right person for the job, especially with wedding attire order fittings, deadlines and tight timelines the day of your wedding. Instead, lean toward friends who you know will answer your emails, show up when you need them to.
Consider Financial Constraints:
We all know being a bridesmaid or groomsman can be expensive. Even if you’re paying for their accommodations or chipping in for the suit or dress- once you add in potential travel, gifts, and the bachelor and bachelorette parties, the costs can add up quickly. If you know a friend is in a tough spot financially, call them up to talk it over before making the official ask. Let them know you’d love to include them but want to be respectful of their finances. There are other equally important roles that they can fulfill such as providing a special reading, toasts or acting as greeters or ushers.
Consider Roles and Responsibilities:
Think about the roles and responsibilities you envision for your bridal party. Traditionally, bridesmaids and groomsmen assist with various tasks, such as planning pre-wedding events, offering emotional support, and helping with day-of logistics. Consider whether the potential members of your bridal party have the time, availability, and willingness to fulfill these duties.
Trust Your Instincts:
Ultimately, trust your instincts when selecting your wedding party. Choose the individuals who you feel a deep connection with and who you can envision standing by your side as you say your vows. Surround yourself with the people who make you feel loved, supported, and cherished.
Communication is Key:
Once you have made your final decisions, communicate with the chosen individuals personally and with care. Share your excitement, express how much their presence means to you, and outline your expectations for their involvement. Be prepared to address any potential concerns or questions they may have, and ensure they are aware of the commitment involved.
Choosing your wedding party is a significant decision that involves a careful balance of personal relationships, logistics, and emotional dynamics. By considering your closest relationships, assessing availability and commitment, and prioritizing compatibility and positivity, you can assemble a bridal party that will make your wedding journey even more memorable. Trust your instincts, communicate openly, and remember that your bridal party is there to support you and celebrate your love. With the right individuals by your side, your wedding day will be filled with laughter, support, and shared memories.