Bridal Party Etiquette
- Question:
- It was so hard to decide on my bridesmaids—I had to cut out all but my two best friends, since I have so many sisters and future sisters-in-law in the party. Another very close friend has been angling for a spot. How do I tell her she didn't make it?
- Answer:
Avoiding the topic until she gets the hint may seem like the easiest, least-painful way to do things—but we know from experience it can breed long-lasting resentment. We suggest breaking the bad news to her gently and quickly. Take her out for coffee and be honest about your situation—your family and his took up so many spots in the wedding party that you couldn't ask everyone you wanted. Let her know that she's still one of your closest friends, and as such, you've got another special role all lined up for her—whether it's doing a reading or handing out programs to your guests.
- This content originally appeared in Modern Bride magazine.
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- How can I work an extra friend into my wedding?
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Submit Your Own Etiquette Question
Have an etiquette question you'd like our editors to answer?
- Can my wedding party be lopsided?
- Can I nix an overweight bridesmaid?
- Is seven bridesmaids too many?
- How can I convince my bridesmaids to budget for their expenses?
- Can I ask a bridesmaid to quit the party?
- Are there age limitations for ring bearers and flower girls?
- How can we ensure that the ring bearer behaves during the ceremony?
- How should my fiancé select a best man?
- Can I ask a groomsman to remove his facial piercings during the ceremony?
- Do we have to buy gifts for the groomsmen?
- Should the best man hold a boys' outing on the day of the wedding?
- Must I include my old friend in the bridal party?
- Does the best man have to give a toast?
- Is alcohol a good gift for the groomsmen?
- How do I handle a critical bridesmaid?
- Can my mom be my maid of honor?
- How can I convince my niece to be a junior bridesmaid?
- Can my son be the ring bearer?
- Can I ask my bridesmaids to cover their tattoos?
- How can I include my 12-year-old brother in the wedding party?
- Should I tell my fiancé about my past relationship with his groomsman?
- Who's supposed to keep the groomsmen informed about appointments?
- Is the maid-of-honor expected to give a toast?
- Can a bride ask her bridesmaids to alter their appearance?
