Photos: Janae Shields Photography
If you just got engaged, than you're probably still staring at your engagement ring and spreading the good news. But once the first flurries of engagement excitement die down, the next thing that will inevitably come to mind is who should be your bridesmaids? Whether you were in a large sorority, have four sisters, or an overwhelmingly large group of BFFs from high school and college, selecting your bridal party can feel daunting and political. You of course don't want to leave anyone out, but it's your day! You should have gal pals by your side who have stuck beside you through good times and bad, and who will make you feel comfortable and supported for one of the most enjoyable (and inevitably stressful times) in your life. To help narrow down the candidates, first, list everyone who's in the running, then consult our easy points system below.
You are siblings: +10 points
She and your fiancé are siblings: +4 points.
As a general rule, you should try to include his sister unless he asks you not to.
You've been BFFs forever: +1 point for every five years you've been close.
You're BFFs now: +2 points. Add five if she was the first person you called after saying yes.
She was a bridezilla at her own wedding: -3 points
Being around her just makes you happy, plain and simple: +5 points
You'd trust her opinion in any dressing room: +1 point
You were a bridesmaid at her wedding: +2 points. Unless the statute of limitations—five years—is up. Then there's no obligation.
And the winners are...
1-6 points: Someone has to do the readings, right?
7-14 points: Makes the cut!
15+ points: By a landslide. Maid of honor?
—Amanda MacMillan
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