It’s normal to feel wedding-planning stress when the to-do list starts to look insurmountable. However, with the help of your bridal party, you can get everything crossed off that list with plenty of time to spare. From helping you choose a wedding venue to standing next to you as you say your vows, your wedding party will be there to support you at every step. Unfortunately, choosing who will be in the party can be a little intimidating, too. Here are some tips to help you settle on the perfect group.

How to Decide Who Will Be in the Wedding

1. Take Your Time

You don’t have to call your chosen wedding party the second you get engaged. Give yourself time to solidify other basic wedding details while you think about who you want for those honors. Talk with your fiance about who you both will want. This will ensure you begin from a place of balance and collaboration. 

2. Pick People You’re Genuinely Close To 

Choose people who are a big part of your life. Don’t try to avoid hurt feelings by asking people you’re not extremely close with because they feel that they should be in the wedding. It’s your day, and you should be with your closest friends or family members. 

3. Compare the Size of the Party With the Guest List

The wedding might look uneven if half of your wedding guests are included in your wedding party. Consider writing a draft of the guest list to get an estimated number of attendees before you ask your bridal party to be involved. If you’re having a small wedding, five or fewer would be an appropriate number of people for the bride and groom’s parties.  

4. Be Clear About Their Roles

If you expect the wedding party to participate in activities, make that clear when asking your choices to be in the party. Even if you’re having a small, intimate wedding and all you want from them is to pick up their own outfit, being upfront about the task will leave little room for last-minute surprises. If anyone is unable to fulfill what you’ll need from your party, you’ll be able to select an alternate. 

If you’re looking for a wedding venue for your big day, visit Makoy Center in Hilliard, OH. Voted Best of Weddings on The Knot® seven years in a row, they provide a luxurious atmosphere with enough space to accommodate up to 400 guests. They also offer on-site catering and beverage services so you can cross multiple items off your wedding planning list when booking this venue. Learn more about outdoor weddings on the website. Take a virtual tour of the venue itself by going to their website or call (614)-777-1211 to talk about wedding planning.