In a previous blog I discuss the tips on how many to have in your bridal party, in this blog I know discuss the pros and cons to not having a bridal party. As non-traditional as this move might seem, it is becoming an increasingly popular decision made by today’s couples. While there are some definite downsides to ditching the practice at your wedding, experts say there are some surprising benefits, too, especially in regard to the planning process.
Here, I will share pros and cons that can help you determine whether having a bridal party at your wedding is a must or a mistake.
Image from The Wedding Guys
Pro: It is a Great Way to Honour Those Closest to You
Being asked to be someone’s bridesmaid is a true honour—especially when so few individuals were selected to carry that title. These are the friends/family who have been by your side through thick and thin and only want what is best for you, so asking them to stand next to you as you marry the love of your life is the ultimate honour. You are selecting them as bridesmaids symbolizes that each has helped you to become the person you are today.
Con: It Will Require Room in Your Budget
While your bridesmaids might pay for their own dress, many additional costs are covered by the bride, such as a bridesmaid gift, hair and makeup, the bouquet of flowers for them to carry down the aisle, etc. Personalized gifts for each of your attendants can add up fast. If you are on an extremely strict budget for your wedding, the fewer people in the wedding party, the further the money will go towards other aspects of your wedding, like photography.
Pro: Extra Emotional Support
The added support leading up to one of the most important milestones of your life is undoubtedly one of the biggest benefits of having a bridal party. On your wedding day, having a crew of your closest friends and family members nearby—in the early morning, through the getting-ready process, just before you walk down the aisle, standing next to you when you say your “I dos,” and at nearby tables during your reception—will help make you feel more comfortable and at ease.
Consider the emotional support a bridal party can provide on the day of your wedding when anxiety and stage fright might get the best of you.
Image by True Photography in Pinterest
Con: It Can Create a Breeding Ground for Conflict
You might get along with all your friends, but they might not be so chummy with each other—especially if you are mixing two groups, like your high school friends and your college pals. Having too many opinions and personalities in one room on a normal day can drive anyone crazy, not to mention more so on your big day as a bride. While each bridal party likely has your best interest at heart, sometimes all the opinions create more indecisiveness, stress, and confusion.
Pro: More Helping Hands
Since traditional bridal parties’ responsibilities include planning the shower and bachelorette party, you will be pretty much taken care of. The same goes for day-of duties. Not that you want to put people to work for you on your wedding day, but your bridal party can definitely help out with any last-minute errands or emergencies on the wedding day. Forgot your double-stick tape? Have one of your bridal party run out and stock up. Worried about not eating or drinking enough water on your wedding day?
Appoint one of your bridesmaids to remind you to stay fed and hydrated.
Con: You Might Hurt People’s Feelings
Oftentimes, deciding which of your close friends and family will make the cut to be part of your bridal party list can create tension. Not asking certain friends to be in your bridal party could create a lot of drama and hurt feelings, so not having any bridal party would eliminate all of the conflicts of choosing between friends and keep all of your friendships intact.
So, hope these pros and cons have given you a clear look in what direction you intend to go with having or not having a bridal party.
If you do go down the path in having a bridal party but now not sure how many you should have, check out my blog that gives you tips on how many to have
Hope you enjoyed the read
Emma Louise x