Singaporebrides | Weddings 101

August 2025

Less is more—here’s why a smaller bridal party might be better for the bride

By Elizabeth Chee

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Quality over quantity applies to the bridesmaids too. Before deciding to involve every female friendship in the wedding planning process, here are all the reasons why a smaller bridal party might be better for the bride—from a tight circle of trusted opinions to savings on extra expenses.

From first crush to first kiss, the girls are always the first to know. News about the engagement is no different either, with the bride’s inner bevy of ladies often being up-to-date way before the social media hard launch. Then comes the tricky part: deciding which of said ladies gets to be a part of the bridal party. Asking the bride to pick only a handful from the femmes that have stood by her through the journey of girl-to-womanhood is, without a doubt, another of the many tough decisions the wedding planning journey has to offer.

“Is 15 bridesmaids too many?” Whether it’s to avoid displays of favouritism or the desire to share this special milestone with as many girlfriends as possible—cousins, childhood buddies, high school cliques, the whole lot—the truth is that it’s simply impractical to do so. Across the board, the ideal bridal party size would consist of a number that isn’t too stressful for the couple to manage in terms of logistics—coordination of dresses, communicating details and added costs from gifts and bouquets are several factors worthy of consideration. In reality, this number averages at around five bridesmaids and five groomsmen, give or take a couple. Brides with a tighter inner circle will be assured to know that it’s normal and fully understandable to size it down a notch to just two bridesmaids, or even a singular maid-of-honour.

But for those still struggling to narrow down the list of bridesmaids, it would do one good to remember that there are alternative ways to include the rest of the girls in the wedding festivities. Inviting them to the bachelorette party, having them make a toast or speech at the wedding, getting ready together before the ceremony, to name a few. There’s no need to feel guilty, given that the ultimate goal is to minimise hassle and tension in an already stressful yet joyous occasion. Below, all the reasons why a smaller bridal party could be more beneficial for the bride.

CLEARER ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Bridesmaids in the bridal party play an official role in the wedding, often assisting with crucial tasks throughout the arduous planning process and on the big day. From DIY projects and dress fittings, to organising the gatecrash and holding the bride’s bouquet, the owners of these helping hands should be more than just loved ones of the bride—demonstrating skills and capabilities that are complementary to her personality. Being selective in choosing the bridal party ensures that each trusted bridesmaid is delegated with the appropriate duties, making it easier to check if plans are followed through with. It’ll also avoid mix-ups in the assigned tasks, or situations where some appear to contribute less because they’re unsure of their role.

LESSER OPINIONS

So many men, so many minds. Decisions are hard enough to make alone, and might not be made any easier should too many opinions be taken into consideration. Bold and bronzed, natural or Thai-style make-up? Pastel florals, clean and modern chic or an old Hollywood glamour theme? Aside from making decisions concerning the bridal party themselves, such as dress colour or bouquet budgets, every extra person in the bridal party is another person who has to agree on important conclusions for the bride as well. Bridesmaids should be chosen wisely—prioritise those who understand and know the bride best, capable of offering opinions and shortlisting options in her best interest.

LOWER COSTS

Like it or not, summing up expenses is unescapable in this economy. Transportation, accommodations, accessories, florals and gifts are just some of the extra costs bound to be incurred with a bridal party. A smaller bridal party saves money, which could be better spent on other, more meaningful elements of the wedding celebration that could elevate the entire guest experience.

EASIER COMMUNICATION AND PLANNING

Coordinating schedules and events such as fittings or rehearsals are made significantly easier when there’s a smaller group to manage. Quality over quantity is the rule of thumb—fewer bridesmaids need not result in less manpower if most of them have the time, capacity and availability to be present in the moments where the bride needs them most.

LESS DRAMA, MORE POSITIVE ENERGY

Last but not least, the wedding is supposed to be a blissful, blessed occasion—keeping the bridal party tight-knit reduces risks of any disagreements and tensions due to conflicting personalities or unfortunate miscommunications. A smaller, less chaotic bridal party could hold space for more intimate interactions that reinforce calmness, provide encouragement and radiate positivity, allowing the bride to remain grounded and focused during the nerve-wrecking day.

Featured image from Shauna and Rainer’s Minimalist and Modern Zen Wedding at Raffles Hotel Singapore by Iki Company.

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