Having a Man of Honor or Groomswoman? Everything You Need to Know…

Having a Man of Honor or Groomswoman? Everything You Need to Know…

The terms “bridesmaid” and “groomsman” definitely have gender associations that have been firmly rooted in tradition. However, these days there are no hard and fast rules. You do not have to separate your wedding party into men and women. If you’d rather mix it up and have a bridesman or a groomswoman then go for it!! It doesn’t matter how your most important people identify. Having men and women on either side of the aisle is a sweet way to include those you love.

What Are They Invited To?

As long as both you and the attendant in question are comfortable, invite them to everything. Check in with them before you send out the invites to make sure they will be comfortable attending. For example, your male best friend may not be as excited about your lingerie-themed bridal shower as you are. Don’t decide for them, though. Always extend the invitation to every event that you want them to attend. However, let them know that if they prefer not to, there will be no hard feelings.

Will you have a man of honor? Or will your fiancé has a best woman? Plan a bachelorette or bachelor party that they’ll be able to join in on. Keep this in mind as you start working on the details.

Where Should They Get Ready?

A bridesman may not be eager to spend the morning watching you and your bridesmaids have your hair and makeup done. You should still invite him to join you for all the key moments. Include him in lunch in the bridal suite. Make sure he’s dressed back in time for the grand reveal of your wedding dress. Perhaps see if he would be comfortable joining in on some fun getting ready photos. You can all wear matching robes. Is your fiancé is having a groomswoman stand by his side? Ask them if they’d be interested in getting ready with you and your bridesmaids. Or see if she’d rather hang out with the guys.

What Should They Wear?

You’ve got a few choices when it comes to attire. The important thing is to make sure they look like they’re part of the gang. You could have a man of honor wear the same attire as the groomsmen. Or swap out an accessory (like a tie or shirt) to better match the rest of the bridesmaids. Many prefer their groomswomen to be in a dress similar to the bridesmaids. Just select a darker hue, or a dress that’s all her own that matches the color of the groomsmen’s suits. You can also use the flowers to help coordinate everyone. Choosing colors or varieties that tie each portion of the wedding party together.

How Should They Process?

A bridesman should walk down the aisle with the bridesmaids and stand on the bride’s side of the altar. Vice-versa for a groomswoman. You may want to skip having the groomsmen escort the bridesmaids. Instead have all of the groom’s attendants walk down the aisle, followed by all of the bride’s attendants. You could also alternate each group. Have a groomsman, followed by a bridesmaid or bridesman, followed by a groomsman. There are many photogenic options and no wrong answers. Play around with it at the rehearsal to see which you like the look of best.

Want to best dress your groomswoman or man of honor? Check out our favorite retailors!

JM Street Menswear & Tuxedo (also offering Birdy Grey)

Bella Bridesmaids

DK Suits

The White Room