Bridal party members pay for their clothes

AS PART of wedding planning, brides and grooms-to-be are responsible for selecting the bridal party. This often poses many questions — how large or small should the bridal party be? Whom should we choose? What will they wear?  Who pays for attire? How will friends or relatives feel if they are left out?

Firstly, you need not feel obligated to choose a groomsman or bridesmaid simply because he or she is your fiance’s relative. Although this is a lovely gesture, you should ensure your bridal party members are people you feel close to, and who above all, will be responsible and supportive in the wedding planning duties they will be assigned! Remember too, that wedding etiquette dictates that bridal party members pay for their attire and accessories. The persons you choose must be aware of and accept this responsibility.

The bridal party can either be family or friends, or a combination. The best man is the groom’s chief attendant and is selected by him. The maid of honour (unmarried) or matron of honour (married), and the bridesmaids, are chosen by the bride-to-be. The final decisions on bridesmaid attire rests with her! Some brides are more hands-on and prefer to choose a dress style and select accessories for bridesmaids. Others simply select a colour and give bridesmaids to choose the style. Although bridesmaid dresses do not have to be in the same style, they should never be longer than the bride’s gown. Remember bridesmaids are there to complement and assist the bride, not upstage her!

When deciding on including children in your bridal party, be cognisant of the child’s age and maturity. The ideal age range for ring bearers and flower girls is between four to eight years old. However, it is at the couple’s discretion to choose a child younger than age four. It is important to remember that children are often unpredictable and can act in a manner outside their normal personality when faced with walking up an aisle or being in front of a large crowd.
 
When including children, appoint an adult they are familiar with, to advise and encourage them, in the event of “stage fright.” It is also natural that some friends and relatives may feel “left out” if they have not been chosen for the bridal party. There are numerous ways to include them e.g. have them greet/usher guests, distribute wedding favours, be responsible for the gift table or participate in your ceremony.

Wedding tips at trinidadweddings.com
or 788-7273.