How Many Bridesmaids Are Too Many Bridesmaids?

Are 10 bridesmaids too many? There’s no specific rule as to how many bridesmaids you can have. But 3 to 5 is the average amount of bridesmaids. Anything over 8 is considered a big group of bridesmaids. 

Is it okay to have 12 bridesmaids? Definitely, yes. But you have to consider several factors in adding more bridesmaids. These include the venue size, the atmosphere you envision, and the number of family, friends, and close friends you want to participate. 

Choosing How Many Bridesmaids You Can Have 

Here’s how you can decide how many bridesmaids to have on your big day.

Budget 

Bridesmaids do not come cheap. Each of them brings an additional cost. So, before asking someone to be your bridesmaid, consult your budget first. 

Generally, you will pay for the following for each bridesmaid:

• Dress 
• Shoes 
• Hair and makeup
• Jewelry and other accessories 
• Transportation to the venue 
• Food throughout the wedding 

Personal Connection

Bridesmaids are often close friends, sisters, cousins, or other family members. They will stand by your side throughout your journey, offering support and friendship. So, consider the strength of your connections and choose those who have been there for you through thick and thin.

Wedding Size and Formality 

A more intimate wedding calls for a smaller bridal party, while a larger wedding allows for a bigger group. 

As a general rule:

• Casual wedding, registry office, and elopement – 1 to 2 bridesmaids or none at all
•  Semi-formal wedding – 2 to 6 bridesmaids 
• Very formal wedding – 6 to 10 bridesmaids (occasionally 12 bridesmaids)

Logistics 

Ensure to consider the logistics of coordinating dress fittings, rehearsals, and the wedding day. If you have more bridesmaids, managing expectations and schedules becomes more complex. 

Should You Have Your Future Sister-in-Law as a Bridesmaid? 

Making your future sister-in-law part of your bridal party ultimately depends on your relationship with her. 

If the two of you are close, having her as one of your bridesmaids is appropriate. But if not, having her as a bridesmaid can be awkward. This is especially true if she is not close with other bridesmaids. 

Do You Need Equal Bridesmaids and Groomsmen?

In some traditions, couples must have equal amounts of bridesmaids and groomsmen. For example, in the US, each bridesmaid will walk down the aisle arm-in-arm with a groomsman. But if the groomsmen only need to stand up at the front of the altar with the groom, an equal number is optional. 

Can You Have No Bridesmaids At All? 

Yes. You’re free not to have bridesmaids on your wedding day. You can get married without a wedding attendant, best man, or bridesmaid. 

This setup is widespread in elopements or registry office weddings. And even if you plan a grand wedding, you don’t have to have any bridesmaids if that’s your preference. 

How to Handle Leaving Some People Out

You can have a lunch date with your friends or cousins and explain your choice of bridesmaid. This can make them valued and know that your relationship is meaningful enough for you to come to them and explain.

Another way to give them important roles in your wedding like making a toast. You can have them dress in the theme or other ways to make them feel part of your special day. And ensure to invite them to your pre- or post-wedding events. 

When choosing bridesmaids, there is no universal rule for the perfect number. It’s a decision that should reflect your unique circumstances, relationships, and wedding vision.

References:

• https://wearerewritten.com/blogs/news/how-many-bridesmaids-is-too-many#
• https://www.brides.com/story/how-many-bridesmaids-are-too-many
• https://www.eivans.com/blog/how-many-bridesmaids-can-you-have/#
• https://www.brideandgroomdirect.co.uk/blogs/news/how-many-bridesmaids-should-you-have-and-how-to-choose-them