"Who Do I Have To Include In My Wedding Party?"
When it comes to choosing who you want to be a part of your big day, it can be tricky making the final cut. Here are some guidelines to consider while choosing the members of your wedding party:
Must Include
Siblings If you have siblings, we suggest you include them in your wedding party. Most likely they have grown up with you and have been there through both good and bad times (and can probably tell some pretty funny childhood stories in their speeches!). Asking your sibling(s) to stand by you is extra meaningful—they will be so excited to join you as you start this new and exciting chapter of your life.
Siblings-in-Law Your future sibling-in-law should be included as well. You are now gaining a whole other family after you say "I do," so inviting them to be in your party shows you are excited to join their family. Having your future siblings-in-law in your wedding party not only lets them feel honored, but you get the chance to get to know each other even better.
Best friends Remember to be selective and choose the people who mean the most to you. Your best friends are the ones that know you almost better than you know yourself and are practically a part of your family so they should stand by your side on this important day.
Maybe Include
Cousins If you are close to your cousins then you should consider including them in your wedding party. They too, are family and will be honored to share this special day with you. However, if you are not as close with your cousins, then you do not have to include them in your wedding party; it just depends on your relationship. If you have a lot of cousins and cannot accommodate them, try to find other roles for them to play in your wedding (ushers, readers, etc.).
Nieces and/or nephews It is not necessary to include your nieces and nephews in your wedding party. However, children between the ages of three to eight could be adorable flower girls or ring bearers. Not only do they add an adorable touch to your ceremony, but the children’s parents will be honored as well.
Don’t Have to Include
College and childhood friends Do not feel obligated to include all of your friends in your wedding party. Only select the ones who you are closest to, who you call weekly (or text daily!), and who know about everything that's going on in your life, and vice versa. Remember, your wedding party should consist of people who are special to you.
If you were a part of their wedding party you don't have to ask someone to be in your wedding party just because you were in theirs. If you're not close with them anymore, you don't have to include them. Your wedding party should reflect your current friendships and relationships, and should include those who you are close with right now.
