How many bridesmaids should I have?
According to various bridal experts, the traditional formula is one bridesmaid for every 50 guests. And while that rule seems to make sense for groomsmen and ushers, the formula is somewhat looser for bridesmaids. If you have lots of sisters of close friends, you should include them all if that works for you. If you have only a few close relatives or friends, a smaller bridal party is fine. Sometimes there is a potential conflict if either the bride or groom wants a bigger wedding party than the other one might. Some negotiation will be necessary. Our wedding consultants can suggest other wedding related roles that you can offer to these “extras”. While it is usual to have one maid or matron of honor, there is nothing wrong with having one of each or two maids of honor if you have close friends or relatives that you want in that role.
How can I include my out of town bridesmaid?
If she lives some distance away and you really want her to plan to attend a shower or other event related to the wedding, you owe it to her to tell her that up front when you ask her to be in the wedding. Travel can be an additional burden on this friend - especially if you can’t afford to cover her travel expenses. If she accepts then you need to make every effort to keep her in the loop of wedding related activities and news. Establishing and maintaining an email link is vital to communicating news. Make sure that she knows about the website you’ve established and can access it easily.
How do I handle a bridesmaid who hasn’t gotten measured or ordered her dress yet?
Give her a gentle reminder that the order is being held up waiting for her size and deposit. Offer to meet her at the bridal shop at a certain date and time at her convenience. Make it a lunch date or dinner date to order the dress and then have time together. If the maid is a relative on the groom’s side, enlist the help of the groom’s mother and ask her to remind the maid that “time is critical”. Your maid of honor can assume the role of captain of the maids and call the maid as many times as is necessary to get this done. The store where you’ve selected the gowns can also help by sending reminder cards and/or emails to this person.
It is important to remember that although it is an honor to be an attendant at your wedding it is also an added expense for your bridesmaids, an expense that some may not be able to handle comfortably in this economy. When planning your wedding keep these expenses in mind so that it will be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Bluestone Bridal - wedding accessories, invitations and favors
Bluestone Weddings - wedding consultant, hair & makeup, officiant
[...] Blogtip Staff wrote an interesting post today on  Here’s a quick excerpt  What is the proper etiquette for how many bridesmaids to have at a wedding? How do you get your bridesmaids to order their dresses on time? Tips for the bride. [...]