Can I Have Both a Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor?

You’ve decided who you will be asking to be in your wedding party. Now you have to narrow down your options for maid of honor. How do you choose amongst all your close friends and family? You have more than one person in mind who fits all of your Maid of Honor needs. You may find yourself wondering if it’s okay to double up. The answer is: Yes!

You do you! If you have two people in your life that you want to be co-Maids of Honor, go for it. If it’s what’s right for your wedding, then it’s what’s right for you. One solution is to choose both a maid of honor and a matron of honor. They can both stand by your side on the big day. Wondering what the key differences are between a maid of honor and a matron of honor? Want to know how you can include them in your wedding so they both stand out? Don’t worry! We’ve got your back on this one, too!

Maid of Honor vs. Matron of Honor

First thing’s first: What’s the difference between a maid of honor and a matron of honor? Traditionally, the difference between a maid of honor and matron of honor is based on relationship status. The maid of honor is unmarried, while a matron of honor has already had a wedding of their own. Their roles are the same; the difference is purely in semantics. Simple, right?

Can You Have Both?

While either version is definitely an honor, that doesn’t mean you have to restrict yourself to just one. Especially in a large bridal party, having two MOHs, married or not, can be incredibly useful. They can help with keeping the rest of the gang in line. And think about it. Your 18-year-old sibling will be a fabulous maid of honor. But having your already married best friend serve as matron of honor will give you access to all of the tips and tricks they picked up while they were planning their own wedding.

If your maid of honor is underage and your matron of honor is over 21, ask the younger of the two to focus on your bridal shower. The other one can helps with the bachelorette festivities. Your two MOHs can work together on all of their responsibilities. Planning your bachelorette party or bridal shower. Helping with DIY projects. Or you can chat with them to divide the tasks into ones that fit each person best. A long-distance maid/matron of honor may be helpful for your bachelorette party. They won’t be able to help stuff envelopes or assemble favors. This is a great task if one of your MOHs lives close by. Most importantly, rely on your MOHs to delegate tasks to your wedding party. Delegation when it comes to your wedding plans is crucial. Your squad is there to help, so just let them!

How To Include Both in Your Wedding

If you’ve elected two people to the rolethere are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Regardless of marital status. First, instead of one outfit that stands out from the crowd, you’ll need two. You could opt to have your MOHs both wear the same differentiating detail. Or have them distinguished from the bridesmaids and from one another. That could mean having both MOHs wear the same colorful sash. Or carry matching, slightly different bouquets with unique pops of color. Or even incorporating a special headpiece or hair clip that gives them that extra shine.

Want to go for something a little more eye-catching? Dress your bridesmaids in solid colors and your MOH in a print. Have both MOHs wear the same print in different silhouettes. Or ask them to choose two coordinating prints that fit your palette.

Two MOHs also means two important walks down the aisle, until you make your grand entrance, that is. Typically, the maid of honor walks down the aisle with the best man. If you have two MOHs but only one best man him escort both MOHs down the aisle. Or ask another VIP, such as your brother, to serve as a second escort. Or, let them go solo! The maid of honor, matron of honor and best man can each walk down the aisle separately. Plus, it’s an extra nod to their special role in your wedding party.

Whether you choose to have your bridesmaids and groomsmen walk separately or together there is no hard and fast rule. It is entirely up to you whether the matron or maid of honor stands closer to the bride at the altar. Whomever stands beside you will walk last. If one is a sibling and the other is a friend, most brides will opt to have their sibling stand closest. Even if they aren’t yet married.

Photos by Divine Images, Sarah Elizabeth Photo & Film, Ivory Door Studio, George Street Photo, Mint Magnolia Photography, John Myers Photography and Elle Danielle