13 Months To Go

THIS MONTH'S TOPIC Asking Your Attendants

#1 Set expectations (for you and them)
Your maid of honor, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and best man may be called in for pretty active duty throughout the planning process. So as you choose your inner circle, keep in mind what you can reasonably ask your attendants to do: Can you ask them to come shopping with you? Absolutely. Can you ask them to spend more than they can afford on a head-to-toe ensemble that they’ll never wear again? Try not to.

#2 More isn’t always merrier
You have six best friends, three sisters, and five future sisters-in-law -- and you’re envisioning a great big gorgeous group at the altar. That’s all fine and well, as long as you keep in mind that having 14 maids involves some extra effort (and some extra expense): 14 bouquets, 14 gifts, and 14 people to consult about the dresses, the shower date, and the bachelorette party.

#3 The “new rules” of attendants
These days, many weddings feature bridesmen, groomsmaids, men of honor, and best women -- a gentle bending of tradition that we love. Brides, if you want your best guy friend in your wedding, he doesn’t necessarily have to stand on the groom’s side just because he’s in a suit.