The Big Question – How Many Groomsmen Do You Need?
Planning a wedding is no walk in the park—it’s a whirlwind of decisions, from picking the perfect venue to finding the dream attire. One question often overlooked until the last minute is, “How many groomsmen should you have?” Don’t sweat it; we’re here to help you navigate this tricky decision with ease.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, several factors—like the size of your wedding, traditions, and personal relationships—can influence your choice. By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident about assembling a crew that perfectly complements your big day.
Traditional Rules for Groomsmen: A Quick Look
Before diving into modern considerations, let’s look at some traditional guidelines for groomsmen.
- One Groomsman per 50 Guests:
Historically, wedding planners recommend one groomsman for every 50 guests. So, a 150-person wedding would typically feature three groomsmen. - Balance with Bridesmaids:
It’s common for couples to match the number of groomsmen to bridesmaids for symmetrical aesthetics during the ceremony and photos. - Family First:
Tradition often suggests choosing brothers or close family members as priority groomsmen before considering friends.
While traditions provide a good starting point, modern weddings embrace flexibility, so feel free to mix things up!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Groomsmen
1. The Size of Your Wedding
The guest list often dictates the size of your wedding party. For intimate weddings with fewer than 50 guests, you may only need one or two groomsmen. Larger weddings, on the other hand, can accommodate a more extensive group.
- Small Wedding: 1-3 groomsmen
- Medium Wedding: 3-6 groomsmen
- Large Wedding: 6+ groomsmen
2. Venue Space and Logistics
Your venue’s layout can affect how many groomsmen fit comfortably. Narrow aisles, small ceremony spaces, or limited reception seating might call for a smaller party.
3. Your Budget
More groomsmen mean more expenses. You’ll need to consider costs for:
- Suits or tuxedo rentals
- Groomsmen gifts
- Boutonnieres
- Additional seats at rehearsal dinners
If your budget’s tight, a smaller group can save you from unnecessary stress.
4. Your Relationships
Here’s the tricky part: deciding who makes the cut. Think about your closest friendships, siblings, or lifelong buddies. But be cautious—this is where feelings can get hurt!
- Tip: If you’re struggling to choose, consider assigning honorary roles like ushers or readers to include more people without expanding your groomsmen list.
Pros and Cons of a Large vs. Small Groomsmen Party
Large Groomsmen Party
Pros:
- Creates a grand and celebratory vibe.
- You can include more friends, avoiding hurt feelings.
- Allows for diverse responsibilities (e.g., one plans the bachelor party, another handles speeches).
Cons:
- Higher costs for attire and gifts.
- Can feel chaotic during photos and logistics.
Small Groomsmen Party
Pros:
- Simpler to coordinate.
- Easier on the budget.
- Feels more intimate and personal.
Cons:
- May risk excluding important people.
- Could seem underwhelming for larger weddings.
Creative Alternatives to Traditional Groomsmen
Not every wedding has to follow the same playbook! If the question “How many groomsmen should I have?” feels overwhelming, consider these alternatives:
- Mixed Gender Wedding Parties: Include close female friends as part of your groomsmen group.
- Non-Matching Numbers: You don’t need equal numbers of groomsmen and bridesmaids. It’s your day—do what feels right!
- No Groomsmen at All: If keeping it simple is your vibe, ditch the groomsmen altogether. Focus on your best man and call it a day.
FAQs About Choosing Groomsmen
Q: How many groomsmen is too many?
A: There’s no hard-and-fast rule, but a wedding party of 10+ groomsmen might feel excessive unless you’re hosting a grand event.
Q: Do I need the same number of groomsmen as bridesmaids?
A: Nope! While symmetry looks great in photos, it’s not a must. Uneven numbers can still work beautifully.
Q: Can I include someone who isn’t close to me anymore?
A: Only include people you genuinely want by your side. Don’t feel obligated to invite someone out of guilt or old ties.
Q: What if I can’t choose between friends?
A: Assign other roles like ushers, MCs, or ceremony readers to include more people without bloating your groomsmen list.
Final Thoughts: Make It Personal
At the end of the day, the number of groomsmen you choose should reflect your wedding’s style and your personal relationships. Forget about rigid rules and focus on what feels right for you and your partner.
Whether you go big with a lively crew or keep it small and intimate, the key is to ensure your wedding day is a celebration of love, friendship, and commitment.
