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Too many bridesmaids?: 5 alternatives for including friends in the Big Day

by Kristen Seymour (RSS feed) on Oct 12th 2007 5:00PM

Filed under: Alternative Weddings, Etiquette

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You've begun planning your wedding, and I'll bet you never knew you had so many friends. But how can you include them all without your bridal party resembling a soccer team? Not everyone has to be a bridesmaid --below are some ideas for involving people in other ways.

  • Guest-book attendant -- Yes, we all saw this episode of Sex and the City, and it didn't go all that well for Miranda. But your wedding is different, and this is a way to give someone (male or female, old or young) a role in your wedding.
  • Toastmaster -- This can be either at the rehearsal dinner, reception, or both. Perhaps your MOH and Best Man are nervous about speaking -- an eloquent acquaintance may be able to come up with a fabulous speech to give on behalf of him- or herself and the bridal party, or speak in addition to the traditional toast-givers.
  • Reader or Singer -- If you have a favorite Bible passage or sonnet, ask a pal to stand up during your ceremony and read it. Or maybe you have a friend with a talent for writing poetry who would be willing to write something for your special day. Musical friends would probably be honored to sing at your wedding or play a song at your reception -- just ask.
  • Child- or Pet-walker -- Are you including someone small and/or furry who might benefit from having someone help him or her down the aisle at your wedding? Designate a friend outside the bridal party to be a guide.
  • Usher -- While the groomsmen can certainly act as ushers, the can be a great way to include additional friends and family.Consider your little cousin who thinks you're the coolest thing since LeBron James, and would be THRILLED to be involved. Or, buck convention and ask your sorority sisters to help people to their seats.
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