One of first things a newly engaged bride does is ask her closest friends and family to be her wedding attendants. We all know the standard titles: Maid of Honor, Matron of Honor, Bridesmaid, and Flower Girl. But what exactly does a Personal Attendant do? What makes an Honorary Bridesmaid, honorary? And with more brides adopting non-traditional titles, how do you know where to place your best girls (and guys!) on your big day?
Have no fear! We have your list of who’s who in the wedding party, along with some unique alternative titles, to help you reach your ultimate wedding attendants “squad goals.”
The Bridal Party
Maid or Matron of Honor
Being asked to be a maid/matron of honor is a huge honor, as well as responsibility. From planning the bridal shower to toasting the newlyweds, the maid of honor does it all. She’s the bride’s right hand girl throughout the entire planning process. She helps make final decisions on table settings, decor, and even the dress. She is the main point of communication to the bride and lets guests know where the couple is registered. No project is too big or small for the maid of honor. She is the wonder woman of the wedding party.
Alternative titles: Man of Honor, Lady of Honor, Best Woman, Head Bridesmaid
Bridesmaids
Your most trusted group of gal pals, bridesmaids make up the wedding day entourage. Their duties include supporting the maid of honor with pre-wedding activities such as party planning, invitation addressing and favor making. On the day of, they serve as unofficial hostesses and get the party started on the dance floor!
Alternative titles: Bridesman, Bride Tribe, Bride Squad, “I do” Crew
Junior Bridesmaid
Typically 16 or under, junior bridesmaids are the youngest members of the wedding party. They have the same responsibilities as the senior bridesmaids, though they may be excluded from the bachelorette party.
Flower Girl
The littlest of the wedding attendants, the flower girl (or boy) scatters flower petals down the aisle. Confetti or wrapped candies are also a popular option. These little attendants wear a miniature of the brides dress and usually sit with their parents after completing their walk. Especially well behaved children may join the rest of the wedding party at the altar. Children can add a bit of softness and humor to any ceremony, but keep in mind that there is only so much you can control. Make sure they attend the rehearsal so they can get comfortable with their duties before the wedding.
Honorary Bridesmaid
Traditionally, the honorary bridesmaid title is reserved for an older family member who is important to the bride. She is not expected to assist in the planning process and does not stand at the altar with the other bridesmaids. But her name does appear in the program. This can also be a sweet way to honor a friend or family member who is unable to attend the wedding.
House Party
In Southern tradition, the house party is the glue that holds the wedding day together. They handle small tasks like manning the guestbook, serving cake or handing out programs. Many brides opt to use this title simply to honor important guests or family members. In that case, the only responsibility they have is to attend and enjoy!
Personal Attendant
The duties of a personal attendant can be hard to define because they are…personal! It is the job of the personal attendant to anticipate the needs of the bride before the ceremony. They are in charge of delivering messages to the groom, making sure vendors receive their tip cards and keeping a stain remover pen armed and ready!
Once you’ve decided on who you want as your wedding attendants, make it official! Marrygrams “Will You” cards are the perfect way to ask your girls to be a part of your big day. And don’t forget to share your photos with us with the #marrygrams hashtag on Instagram!