It’s a decision that can brighten the day, break hearts, and leave you feeling regretful all at the same time. Choosing the people that stand beside you on your wedding day is a huge responsibility. It’s such a big decision that I began a list back in college when I didn’t even have a boyfriend. That list changed a bit throughout the years, but when the time came to marry my sweetheart, it suddenly became a reality. Don’t worry, you don’t need to start a list ten years beforehand to have enough time to narrow it down. You just need to follow a few guidelines that’ll make it a little easier.
Set a Number

It’s up to you how many people you want standing on each side. You can have none, you can have six, you can have 26, it’s really your decision, but knowing this number up front will help you pare down your list of potentials early. First, keep in mind the more attendants you have, the more details you must manage. Most weddings see bridesmaids and groomsmen in a coordinating dresses and tuxes. Whether you’re the bride or the groom, you’ll be in charge of deciding what they wear and, in some cases, in charge of paying for it. Less can go wrong when you’re looking for the same dress in three sizes than if you’re looking for one in 10. Additionally, bachelor and bachelorette parties, wedding showers, and the rehearsal dinner usually include the attendants so it might be difficult organizing these while ba...