Wedding Planning: Should You Skip Having Bridesmaids?
by Carolyn Lee Feb 3, 2025

A bridal party typically consists of people who either help or support you during wedding planning and on your wedding day. While it is customary to have groomsmen and bridesmaids, some couples may choose to forego this tradition. Let’s look at the role of bridesmaids and the pros and cons of having them.
Five pros of not having bridesmaids
It might be more economical: Some couples have large groups of friends excited to share their special day. Hair and makeup, bouquets, and pre-wedding gifts can create additional expenses. Those expenses can be distressing for a large bridal party or a small wedding. If you choose to exclude having bridesmaids, you can use the money for other wedding-related expenses.
You will avoid attire issues: Deciding what your bridesmaids will wear can be time-consuming and sometimes create conflicts. General concerns with selecting bridesmaids’ attire include determining the colour, style, cost, dress design, sizes, and whether the style is inclusive. Some brides may opt to skip having bridesmaids so they can focus on planning their big day.
It could eliminate bridesmaid conflict: Although your friends may know each other, they may not be friendly with everyone in your group. Mixing groups of friends (college, work, family, etc.) can result in various opinions and cause personality clashes. Although each friend might have your interest at heart, not having bridesmaids could help limit having to sort out disagreements, confusion, and distractions.
You will avoid hurting people’s feelings: Choosing which relatives or friends should be part of the bridal party can be challenging. Some people might feel left out, rejected, or confused if they aren’t asked. You can choose a maid of honour and ask your other close friends if they want to help in different areas. Explain that you want to keep things simple by having just one person by your side. Your friends will know you still value and need their support.
You will have more free time: Many areas of wedding planning require attention to detail and managing the process to ensure things go smoothly. You must manage personalities, personal preferences, and schedules with a bridal party. Getting everyone for fittings or other pre-wedding activities can become stressful and time-consuming. However, choosing not to have bridesmaids can free up time to be with your partner during planning.
Five cons of not having bridesmaids and tips to help.
You might disappoint some close friends: Some consider being a bridesmaid a privilege. They might be excited to participate in activities like choosing dresses, the bachelorette party, and joining you to shop for your wedding dress. So, your close friends may feel disappointed if they don’t get to stand by you at the altar.
Tip: If you choose not to have bridesmaids, gently explain your decision so they know you are not disregarding their friendship.
It could make some people less enthusiastic: Bridesmaids help to provide emotional support and bring excitement and flair. Their presence is often a dynamic contribution to the energy of the wedding day. Their absence from your side could reduce some of the camaraderie and celebratory atmosphere.
Tip: Having supportive relatives, understanding friends, and a great DJ present can still make your day exceptional.
You might not have enough emotional support: You could miss out on beautiful moments with friends and family before your wedding begins. Being surrounded by your closest friends and family while you get ready, taking cute photos, and having them at the altar can help put you at ease. However, without being bridesmaids, some friends may focus on finding their assigned seats to watch you walk down the aisle.
Tip: Your closest friends will show up for you if you ask them to be there while you get ready.
You could lose additional planning help: Traditional bridesmaid responsibilities include planning the shower and bachelorette party, thus providing support for a potentially stressful experience. They can also help with last-minute errands and wedding emergencies, reminding you to eat and drink something substantial.
Tip: If your friends understand and accept your decision not to have bridesmaids, some will help you, so don’t be afraid to ask.
You are skipping a bonding tradition: Having bridesmaids is a tradition that reflects support, the merging of families, and connecting with friends. Bridal parties look forward to the wedding photoshoot to show off their coordinated outfits, make fun poses, and create new memories. So, excluding bridesmaids from your wedding party could limit some interactions.
Tip: Most weddings have a colour theme, so you can still create fun images with those you love.
Now that you know some pros and cons, you can decide how to handle your bridal party. Remember, friends can still help with planning and emotional support, even if they aren’t a part of the bridal party. Engage with your partner and family to choose what works best for you.
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Sources: Brides, The Knot, Masterclass, and Inside Weddings.