Bridal Party & Roles: Questions Every Bride Asks

Q: How many bridesmaids should I have?

There’s no set number—choose people who are genuinely supportive and reflect your closest relationships. Quality over quantity matters most.

Q: What does the maid of honor do?

The maid of honor helps with planning, leads pre-wedding events, supports you emotionally, and assists with tasks like holding your bouquet or signing the license.

Q: What’s the difference between a maid of honor and a matron of honor?

A maid of honor is unmarried, while a matron of honor is married. You can have either or both depending on your preferences.

Q: What should I consider when choosing bridesmaids?

Choose people who are emotionally supportive, dependable, and able to commit to your timeline and budget. Avoid obligation-based decisions.

Q: Can I have a bridesman or man of honor?

Absolutely. A male friend or family member can serve in the bridal party and take on the same supportive roles as any bridesmaid.

Q: What are the groomsmen’s responsibilities?

Groomsmen help plan the bachelor party, seat guests, escort bridesmaids, and support the groom. The best man often holds rings and gives a toast.

Q: Do I need to give gifts to my bridal party?

Yes, it’s a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation. Popular gifts include robes, accessories, or keepsakes that reflect your gratitude.

Q: What if someone declines being a bridesmaid?

It’s okay. Thank them for their honesty and consider involving them in another way, such as a reading or pre-wedding event support.

Q: Can I have uneven numbers in my bridal party?

Yes, symmetry isn’t necessary. Photographers and planners can creatively arrange your group. Choose who matters most to you.

Q: What does a junior bridesmaid do?

Junior bridesmaids, typically ages 9–16, wear age-appropriate dresses, walk in the processional, and enjoy being part of the wedding fun.

jmajors
5 days ago
3 min read

When planning your wedding, choosing and organizing your bridal party can feel both exciting and overwhelming. To help you navigate all the ins and outs, we’ve compiled the most common questions brides ask about bridal party roles along with clear, thoughtful answers to guide your decisions.

How many bridesmaids should I have?

There’s no set number. Some brides have 1 or 2, others may have 10 or more. The most important thing is to choose people who are genuinely supportive and reliable. Focus on quality over quantity. Your bridal party should reflect the people closest to you, not a need for symmetry.

What does the maid of honor do?

The maid of honor plays a central role throughout your wedding journey. Key responsibilities include:

Helping with wedding planning and dress shopping
Coordinating the bridal shower and bachelorette party
Holding your bouquet and managing your train during the ceremony
Signing the marriage license as a witness
Offering emotional support and solving day-of issues

Think of your maid of honor as your right-hand person, someone who will always have your back.

What’s the difference between a maid of honor and a matron of honor?

The title "maid of honor" is given to an unmarried person, while "matron of honor" refers to someone who is married. You can choose either or have both if you wish! Their roles and responsibilities are the same.

What should I consider when choosing bridesmaids?

When selecting your bridal party, consider these factors:

Emotional support: Who uplifts you?
Dependability: Who can follow through on commitments?
Budget/time: Will they be able to attend fittings and events?
Relationship: Do you see them in your future long after the wedding?

Avoid making choices based on obligation. Your bridal party should be a team you feel confident and excited about.

Can I have a bridesman or man of honor?

Absolutely! If one of your closest friends or family members is male, they can certainly stand by your side. A bridesman or man of honor can be dressed in coordinating attire and take on the same roles and responsibilities.

What are the groomsmen’s responsibilities?

Groomsmen help with bachelor party planning, escort guests, and support the groom. Their responsibilities may include:

Organizing pre-wedding events
Helping seat guests at the ceremony
Walking down the aisle with bridesmaids
Standing with the groom during the ceremony

The best man often holds the rings, signs the license, and gives a toast.

Do I need to give gifts to my bridal party?

It’s a thoughtful gesture and a tradition many brides follow. Gifts can include personalized items like robes, jewelry, or small luxury items. It’s a way to say thank you for their time, support, and love.

What if someone declines being a bridesmaid?

It happens, and it’s okay. Being a bridesmaid is a big commitment. If someone declines, thank them for their honesty and consider offering them another role, like reading a poem, helping behind the scenes, or being involved in pre-wedding events.

Can I have uneven numbers in my bridal party?

Yes! You don’t need a perfectly balanced wedding party. Photos and ceremonies can still look beautiful with some creative pairings or staggered line-ups. Choose people who matter to you and let the numbers fall where they may.

What does a junior bridesmaid do?

Junior bridesmaids are usually between the ages of 9 and 16. They don’t take on full bridesmaid duties but still get to be part of the fun. They often wear age-appropriate dresses, join in on some pre-wedding events, and walk in the processional.

At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, we’re here to help every step of the way from finding the perfect dress to answering all your wedding planning questions. Your bridal party should reflect the love, support, and joy that surrounds your journey and we’re honored to be part of it.