2 sisters, 2 friends??--how to include a close friend

sandjpringle

As it is now I have 3 bridesmaids, my 2 sister in laws, and 1 girlfriend who is my maid of honor.  I've gone back and forth a lot about it and can't decide if I should include my cousins or another friend.  Let me explain.

I have 3 cousins (2 are married and I was in their weddings, the third isn't married yet)- I decided to keep my wedding party small because of cost and also it was an include one, include them all situation with my cousins and I didn't want all three of them.  Now I'm stuck in a predicament because I have a very close friend that I want to include in the wedding, but I feel like I can't.  I put my MOH above my cousins but I feel that 2 friends over my cousins is "less acceptable".. I just can't imagine my wedding day without my friend.. I don't know what to do.

I've thought about having my cousins do readings but 3 readings seems like a lot for a 30 min ceremony.... so my question is how do I include my friend without pissing off my cousins? I could have my friend do a reading, but then again that would be putting her ahead of my cousins

help, please .... Past brides, did you regret not having a close friend in your wedding?  All brides, any advice would be helpful 

thank you!

Maggie0829

Who is putting this pressure on you to include your 3 cousins?

Honestly, everyone here is an adult and they will have to deal with whatever decision you make.  If youwant to include your friend then include her.  Your wedding party should be about the people who are nearest and dearest to you not who you feel pressured in including.

For your cousins, invite them to be guests.  That is an honor as well.

sandjpringle

it's really me who feels this way... like they haven't mentioned that they are super into being in the wedding, and its not my mom or my aunts... i just feel like its the right thing to do (to include them)

do you girls regret not having some people or having included others that you wish you hadn't?

AddieCake

I do not regret my choices b/c the 2 women standing beside me were 2 of the 3 people in this world I could call if I needed to hide a body at 3 a.m. I firmly believe that is how you choose your wedding party. Do not include people out of obligation, and do not exclude people you really want, either. 

erinlin25

if your friend is your nearest and dearest then absoulutely include her in your wedding party.  Just because you were in your cousins weddings does not mean they have to be in yours.