8 Tips for Picking the Perfect Team of Bridesmaids
Planning the perfect wedding can be a long process. There are so many decisions brides must make before their big day, including what dress they will say “Yes!” to, what wedding shoes they will wear, and who they want standing by their side as they say their vows.
Choosing your bridesmaids is a very personal decision. Your bridal party will be by your side on one of the most important days of your life, so it’s important to choose individuals who will love, support, and celebrate you.
If you’re unsure how to pick bridesmaids for your wedding, follow these tips to pick the perfect team.
1. Consider Your Closest Relationships
Most brides will first consider their closest relationships and friendships when choosing their bridesmaids. This typically includes best friends, longtime friends, and even recent friendships.
Your best friends are likely the first to come to mind when choosing your bridesmaids. These are the people who have been through thick and thin with you, supporting you no matter what. You already know that their support at your wedding will mean the world to you.
Like best friends, longtime friends are those you’ve known for years. Even if you don’t see them often, they might still make great bridesmaids. Recent friendships can also be on the table, especially if you feel like you’ve formed strong bonds with people over a short period of time. These types of friends are great at bringing a fresh perspective to the excitement of your wedding day.
2. Think About Availability & Commitment
There is a certain commitment that comes with being a bridesmaid. As you choose your bridesmaids for your wedding, you’ll need to consider the logistics of the situation. Will these friends and family members be able to attend everything, including the pre-wedding festivities (bridal shower and bachelorette party), rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, and reception?
Assess the willingness of friends and family members to be involved in the wedding planning process and support you emotionally. If certain friends or family live far away or aren’t willing to make a huge commitment, you may have to choose someone else who is more available and willing.
3. Think About Bridal Party Size
The size of your bridal party matters. Some brides may opt for a smaller party to reflect a more intimate wedding, while others may want many bridesmaids to stand by their side.
The number of bridesmaids you choose should reflect your personal preferences. You’ll likely also need to coordinate this with the groom, who will ideally need to pick the same number of groomsmen.
4. Highlight the Family
Having close family relationships may make choosing bridesmaids for your wedding easier. Sisters, cousins, or other women in your life are great options for bridesmaids. They share a deep connection with you as your family. Those older than you, such as cousins and aunts who are already married, can even offer advice.
5. Think About Personalities
A big group of women will bring a lot of personalities. For the sake of having a harmonious bridal party, consider whether each personality will complement your own. Make sure your chosen bridesmaids will get along well with each other and will work together as a team to make your day special.
If you have any concerns about the personalities of certain individuals, remember your goal of choosing a harmonious team and that your wedding day is all about you. It’s better to pick the right group of women who have your best interests in mind.
6. Set Clear Expectations
Your bridesmaids will be involved in planning the pre-wedding events, the rehearsal dinner, and the ceremony. Because of this, you’ll need to communicate your expectations ahead of time to ensure everyone is on board and can commit from the get-go.
Communicate your expectations regarding each bridesmaid’s involvement in the planning process. Always be upfront about any financial expectations, including the cost of dresses, gifts, and accessories. Potential bridesmaids should also have clarity on the amount of time you expect them to dedicate to planning and preparations.
Ensure your bridesmaids are not overwhelmed with their own commitments and can handle the additional responsibilities of being in your bridal party.
7. Be Mindful of Potential Challenges
As mentioned, different personalities coming together can create certain challenges. If there are any problematic friendship dynamics between potential bridesmaids, such as tension or conflict, consider whether it would be better to choose someone else.
Similarly, family drama can be a hassle on your wedding day. If you decide to include family members in your bridal party, be prepared to address conflicts beforehand.
8. Trust Your Heart
Above all else, trust your heart. Never feel guilty for choosing not to include someone, especially if your gut tells you not to. Instead, trust that you are making the right decision for yourself when choosing bridesmaids for your wedding.
Think about who you’ve shared amazing moments with over the years and the women you want in your life for many years to come. Remember, your team of bridesmaids should be reliable, selfless, honest, and loving. Never feel pressured to pick someone for the sake of family obligations, appearances, or out of politeness. This is your big day, so make the right decision for you.
Our bridal experts at Savvy Bridal Collective are ready to see your and your bridesmaids’ faces light up as you choose the perfect gown! Book an appointment at our Kansas City or St. Louis locations today!