While there’s no magic formula for choosing the Groomsmen or Bridesmaids, there are some guidelines you can follow to help narrow your choices.

Best Man/Chief bridesmaid. There is sure to be one person you’re closest to, and on whom you can rely no matter what – He/She is your best choice. Grooms or Brides often choose a Brother/Sister or closest friend as their bestman or chief bridesmaid. For the groom, If you feel your wedding wouldn’t be complete without a bestman, but he’s not all that reliable, consider having two — the reliable one can hold on to the ring.

Groomsmen and Bridesmaid. Brothers, sisters, close friends, and the men/women you’ve shared your past with are good choices for choosing your attendants. Remember, your attendants are the men and women who will be standing at your side when you exchange your vows; it is an enormous honour, and not really appropriate for a casual pal. Your friends will probably understand your choosing family members over them; but the trickiest part for any couple is deciding between their closest friends. If for instance, you need to choose your groomsmen, the decision maker may come down to which of the guys you have known the longest and that goes for the bridesmaids as well.

Grooms” women.” Platonic friendships between men and women have resulted in female attendants for grooms. A lovely gesture to make towards a close friend, asking a girl to stand up for you is perfectly acceptable.

Number of Attendants. Some brides will insist upon having an equal number of bridesmaids and groomsmen, but there are no official rules. It is perfectly fine to have a disproportionate number of attendants, so don’t feel pressured to cut one of your attendants, or search your address book for an extra person.

In the end, you should have the people you are closest to by your side on your wedding day — no more, and no less.

Tags: Groomsmen and Bridesmaid