Groom's Girls. Best Girls. Groomsmaids. Man of Honor. Wait a minute .... if something doesn't seem quite right to you about this, you're probably not alone. For eons, we have seen and heard of weddings with Maids of Honor, Best Men, Bridesmaids, and Groomsmen. By all means, these people are wonderful and should remain a sturdy facet to the wedding world. However, there are just some people too special to sit on the sidelines of your big day, so why not throw them anywhere in the bridal party mix? Here are a few reasons to help you decide whether or not to take the more non-traditional route with your wedding party folks.
Get all your BFF's involved
Switching things up and placing guys and gals on both the groom's and bride's sides allow for an easy way to get more of your closest pals involved. For example, say you, the bride, has a male best friend that you met in kindergarten (yes, this is an actual account of yours truly), but your groom already has all his men in gear. Give your bff a place on your side and the problem is solved! Obviously this works in reverse for you grooms that have girl besties as well. Do be sure to ask your friends if they're comfortable filling these non-traditional roles, so as not to offend or totally confuse them. Discussing the idea well in advance may help to ease any apprehension your friends might have with this idea.
Pique interest of guests
Some of us love to do things for shock value and others of us do things simply because we want to do them. Whatever your reasoning for choosing a non-traditional wedding party, it will pique your guests' interests. This will give your guests something to talk about other than the fact that it is too hot, cold, bright, dark, etc. for them. Non-traditional folks up front (or wherever you place your wedding party) will help to engage your guests and hopefully keep them a bit entertained. Caution: Such acts as this may cause whispers, giggles, smiles, looks of shock or awe, and high fives, among your guests.
Showcase creativity
Mixed wedding parties can show off your creative, savvy side. As this is, again, a fun way to include your best friends, many folks will appreciate this creative touch to include those closest to you. Non-traditional wedding parties also provide you the opportunity to send the message that, regardless of who your friends are, they can share in the special celebration of your day. Mixing things up with bridal parties is a creative way to add visual interest too (no, I don't mean that people will be ogling your wedding party ... or maybe some will, but that's for another discussion...). The juxtaposition of people on the bride's and groom's sides will send off a spark that guests can graciously blame on your vibrantly beautiful right brain.
Traditions are good, but they're not for everyone. Think about you and your beau and decide whether or not a mixed wedding party is a way for the two of you to knock your wedding "out of the park."
Sarai Garnett - Sarai Garnett believes that every day brings promise for great experiences. Holding a B.A. in Interpersonal and Organizational ...
