Choosing Your Bridal Party

Historically, during the times when the bride was kidnapped, the attendants protected her against her angry father. Today, your attendants can be a great help in preparing for the wedding and especially great support group on the day of your wedding itself.

Consideration and Possibilities

* Decide how many attendants you want.

(The more formal the wedding, the more attendants are appropriate. A simpler wedding would have fewer attendants.) The range is anywhere from one to twelve, with most weddings having six or less bridal attendants. The number of ushers or groomsmen is usually determined by the number of guest. (One usher can comfortably seat approximately fifty guest.) It is not necessary to have the same number of groomsmen bridesmaids, but it is a common practice.

* Have those you choose verify the calendar availability, and the availability to travel if necessary.

* Consider the financial burden for those you choose (attendants usually purchase their own attire, pay for their own transportation and lodging if they come from a distance as well as a gift.)

* Consider the financial burden for yourself, or whoever is covering wedding expenses.

* Consider the financial burden for yourself, or whoever is covering wedding expenses. The more attendants you choose, the greater the cost for you as each needs a bouquets corsage or boutonniere as well as a gift.

* If you are considering flower girls or ring or train bearer, think seriously about the age of children and whether or not they will be able to go through with being part of the wedding party. Children who are too young have been known to create challenges during the ceremony, especially if it is a long one. They can be absolutely adorable (and scene stealers), but beware off the other side of the coin before asking children to a part of your special ceremony.

* Choose Bridal attendants and confirm.

* Have your fiancé choose his attendants and confirm.