Bridesmaids: How many and what is their purpose?

The original purpose of the bridesmaid's involvement in weddings is indeed colorful.

We all know that traditions exist because someone somewhere thought it would be a good idea to do "whatever", and people started doing these things and the reasoning behind the act became diluted and few people thought to question the reason behind the tradition.... until Nexters (Generation Y) came along with their inquisitive minds and free-thinking attitudes.  So how did the tradition of bridesmaids begin? Under Roman law, there were 10 witnesses needed to make a marriage lawful, hence all the bridesmaids and groomsmen.  Bridesmaids would escort the bride to the groom's village for the ceremony and would dress like the bride in order to confuse rival suitors and robbers they may meet along the journey.  The groomsmen also dressed like the groom to confuse both evil spirits as well as any rejected suitors they may meet en route to the church who might wish the groom harm.

Of course, tradition has been thrown by the way-side as of late, as more and more couples are deciding to do things "their" way.  However, if you are a traditionalist, as I tend to be, the current "traditional" rule of thumb is, there is one bridesmaid for every 50 guests. 

You can find out more interesting tidbits of matrimonial history in the following book:

Happy Planning!


Written by:  Carla McCurthon