The first thing needed to be taken into consideration is ultimately numbers. For every extra bridesmaid attending is an extra sum of money, if you are paying for the bouquet, dress and fancy extras, this sum quickly adds up. More is not always merrier, the last thing you want is bickering bridesmaids on your big day, squabbling over who does what, stands where and has what responsibilities.

Politics, not welcome but always there. A very delicate subject, since you do not want to cause friction between friends but inevitably there will always be some friends and family that do not mix well, but will be at the wedding. Spend some time thinking about any previous animosity between potential bridesmaids; if there was but it has been resolved still be wary. Since a wedding is an extremely emotional event, tensions can flare up at anytime. Also take into consideration who the groom would be comfortable with as bridesmaids, since it is his big day too!

Bridesmaid eligibility, a very touchy matter which is another potential minefield for causing controversy and strife. If you are planning your wedding, your girl friends are probably already imagining themselves as your bridesmaids. Remember you cant choose everyone. Additionally simply because you were picked to be a bridesmaid for someone else does not grant them a right to be yours. To put it bluntly, a bridesmaid invite does not have to be reciprocal.

The sister in law is another conflict zone, depending on how well you get on with one another should dictate whether or not they are invited to be a bridesmaid. Offering this opportunity to your sister in law is an exceedingly generous gesture, therefore only should be mentioned if there is an appropriately strong bond between you and her. It is perfectly acceptable to politely decline her the opportunity and should not be taken insensitively. If you do not want or see it fit for your sister in law to be a bridesmaid, a good way of breaking the bad news is usually to approach the mother in law and explain your reasons, as long as you are honest, hopefully there wont be any bad feelings.

In conclusion, think carefully about numbers and who the special girls are who will be your bridal team. Do not feel the need to equal the number of groomsmen, uneven numbers are better than spending more money on an unwanted maid. It is your special day, therefore pick friends you know, can trust, enjoy and rely on. After all a bridesmaids role traditionally is to support the married couple throughout their marriage in good times and bad times, so ensure your bridesmaids are there for the right reasons, not just to party.