Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. This week, we have a question from a Renaissance Publishing staff member about including male friends in the bride’s party of attendants.
Question: One of my best friends since childhood is a guy. He and my fiancé have also become great friends. My fiancé is open to having him as a groomsman, but in reality, he’s one of my dearest friends and all of my bridesmaids love him too, so I really want him to be one of my attendants. Is it OK to have a brides-man?
Answer: First, I’m enjoying this love-fest between you, your fiancé and your friends. It’s heartwarming and ensures that you are going to have a great wedding day. Second, to address your question, yes, it’s A-OK to have a brides-man! There was a time when it wouldn’t have been done, but with blended families and long-term male-female friendships having become conventional, couples have to find ways to include all of their loved ones in the celebrations and ceremonies. Practically speaking, to balance things out on the groomsman side, I recommend that you have one more attendant than your fiancé and your brides-man can walk solo down the aisle. Unless balance isn’t a concern for you and your husband-to-be. Either way, inclusion is a surefire way to plan a beautiful Big Day. The more the merrier!
Do you have a wedding etiquette question? Share in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.Com.
