Note: The following blog entry was originally posted on September 25, 2007. I’m re-posting it as part of our Newly Engaged series more specifically “Choosing Your Wedding Party”.
I say all of this to say, be careful and very selective when choosing a bridesmaid or matron/maid of honor. Brides sometimes choose their bridal party based on a number of things like having the same number of bridesmaids to match the number of groomsmen chosen by their fiancé, wanting to include people that they’ve known a long time, etc. My very first client switched Matron of Honors half way through her planning because her original choice was unresponsive to calls and emails and was late to every dress appointment if she showed up at all. She chose another friend to replace her. Her second choice did a great job helping wherever needed…until the week of the wedding. She didn’t even want to attend the rehearsal or rehearsal dinner and her attitude on the day of the wedding was horrible. Unfortunately, it was evident in the couple’s wedding pictures.
I encourage you to think of those friends who have been supportive of your relationship with your fiancé, who are genuinely happy about your engagement and those that will be helpful and positive as you go through the planning process. Remember friends who may cause drama, are unreliable, always late and/or always has a negative or pessimistic outlook on everything. Those are probably people you want to find a different role for in your wedding.
Yes, choose wisely and remember, it may be unavoidable to cause some hurt feelings. Emotions run high in wedding planning just focus on the fact that this is your day and do it your way.