Wedding Party Numbers?

Dear Diva,

We’re just weeks away from the wedding, and one of my bridesmaids has to leave town on a family emergency. She might not make it back on time for the wedding. I considered replacing her, but all of my close friends are already in the bridal party. Should I try to find a replacement, take a chance that she might get back, or ask one of the groomsmen to step out so that we have an even number again?

M.W.
Kleefeld, MB

With your wedding just weeks away, finding a replacement is probably not a great option and asking a groomsmen to step out is really poor etiquette. To avoid causing hurt feelings, your best option is to take the change that she might not get back on time. If she doesn’t, just move forward with out her.

It is not uncommon to see wedding parties where the bridal attendants and grooms attendants are not evenly matched and with a little planning, it can be pulled of splendidly. Here are a few tips you can use to make it work should you find yourself short a bridesmaid:

1. The Processional: You have a few options here. You can have the best man wait at the alter with the groom, while the remaining groomsmen escort the maid of honor and bridesmaids up the aisle. Or, you could have the groom and all his attendants enter from the side, and have the brides attendants proceed down the aisle individually.

2. Photo Session: Make sure to alert your photographer in advance of the situation. This will give them time to prepare ideas as well. A good photographer will have no problem coming up with great photo ideas for the wedding party that don’t leave anyone feeling “singled” out.

3. The Wedding Party Dance: You could probably ask one of the groomsmen to sit this out without hurting any feelings, but another option would be to have one of the groomsmen dance with a spouse or significant other for this portion of the special dances.

It is wonderful that you are supportive of your bridesmaid’s need to be with her family. Don’t worry about replacing her this late in the game. If she isn’t back on time, you can work around it and no one will be the wiser.

Be Fabulous,

The Wedding Diva

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