The wedding party will comprise of favourite family members and friends who surround the two of you on the day.

 The Best Man

He is normally the groom's best friend or relative-there to get him to the church on time and in one piece, stand up the front with him as the marriage ceremony begins and who is responsible of the wedding rings. He is efficient, close to the families involved and aware of most arrangements so that he recognises key guests and is comfortable with them. Ahead of time he organises the buck's night, at the reception he makes a speech praising the bridesmaids and amusing stories regarding the groom. Telegrams are almost obsolete now, but he reads any faxes, emails messages or cards that have come from well-wishes unable to attend the wedding.

 The Chief Bridesmaid/Matron Of Honour

The invitation to be a bridesmaid is one a girl either cherishes or dreads. For some it's a dream come true and there is not enough they can do. For others the fear of having to wear a frou frou dress overrides the pleasure of being selected. The chief bridesmaid is, tradtionally the brides closest friend or relative. She arranges the hen's night and helps oraganise the pre wedding dinner. On the big day she ensures the bride looks her best at all times, arranges the bride's veil and train as neccessary and holds the brides bouquet during the ceremony. Given that you will all probably be quite stressed before and on the big day, try to do a few nice things together  to relax and enjot the moment. Maybe visiting a day spa together, a special bridesmaid's lunch or  a sentimental gift along with a note saying thankyou.

Other attendants

Groomsmen, bridesmaids, flower girls and page boys are optional. The choice is often determined by courtesy.  The number of attendants is a personal choice but, unless the wedding is very lavish remember that on the day too many might just be too much.