How many bridesmaids should a bride have?

There is no rule about how many bridesmaids a bride should have. The choice is personal and depends on your friendships, your budget and the style of your wedding. Some brides love a big group of six or eight, while others prefer one trusted sister or a best friend. Both are completely valid.

Think about what each bridesmaid will do. They might help you choose a dress, plan the hen do, calm your nerves, hold your bouquet, adjust your train or sign as a witness. Each additional bridesmaid adds cost for outfits, hair, makeup, gifts and thank-you cards. They also take up space in photos and at the front of the room.

For a traditional church wedding, you might have a few bridesmaids and a page boy. For a civil ceremony, you can have none at all. The legal requirement is only two witnesses, and those witnesses do not have to be bridesmaids.

Be honest with yourself about who you truly want standing beside you. Avoid asking someone out of obligation or to match the groom's number. If you have a large circle, you can include friends as readers, ushers or simply as guests. Your bridesmaids should be the people who make you feel calm and happy, not stressed.

If you are unsure, start with one or two and add only if you feel strongly. You can always ask more later, but it is harder to unask someone.