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Latoya
Just Said Yes July 2020

Forced to have the best friend of my future sister in law as a bridesmaid

Latoya, on November 1, 2018 at 6:28 PM

Posted in Etiquette and Advice 44

Hi all, So I’m recently engaged and we haven’t even set a date yet. However my fiancé says that his little sister who is 11 years younger than me has to be a bridesmaid as well as her little best friend. Personally I want all my bridesmaids to be adults as they are my best friends, and are expected...
Hi all,

So I’m recently engaged and we haven’t even set a date yet. However my fiancé says that his little sister who is 11 years younger than me has to be a bridesmaid as well as her little best friend. Personally I want all my bridesmaids to be adults as they are my best friends, and are expected to attend my hen (bachelorette) party weekend, along with other older friends and it will either be at home (London) or a sunny mini-holiday further afield in Europe. It will now be 6 bridesmaids in total which I think is too much, but as he is used to massive weddings as a part of his culture, he has said it is not enough and I already cut the numbers down from 8.

I understand his sister being a bridesmaid, but I don’t want to have the best friend involved when I don’t know her. Also I would rather have my younger and close cousin (who is an adult) instead as that would be my only family member in my bridal party? He has said that my brother will be one of his groomsmen which is nice, but I doubt he will attend his stag do (bachelor party) as my fiancé and friends are in their 30’s and my brother is in his early 20’s.

Should I be forced to have this extra girl? I doubt she will be involved in any pre-bridemaid duties, she’ll basically just turn up in the dress on the day and be in photos without having helped plan. Should I suggest we veto any siblings in the party, just so that the friend does not have to take part? We can always get her involved in other ways, like a bible reading or song at the ceremony?

Surely your bridesmaids are reserved for people you love dearly? My fiancé must have promised both of them that they will be together as bridesmaids on the day. I don’t mind the sister-in-law at all, it’s just having to be forced to have her friend is unfair, especially as we haven’t officially asked anyone yet.

44 Comments

  • Andrea
    Master January 2021
    Andrea ·
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    Well put, Valerie!!

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  • Andrea
    Master January 2021
    Andrea ·
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    This situation is interesting. I don't like how your fiance APPROACHED you about it. He says that his sister's best friend HAS to be a bridesmaid. No. Absolutely not. Now, in my opinion, you both are a unit, you are one. So, though he's the groom, I think there is nothing wrong with him voicing his opinion, and getting your take on the situation, but I think it's entirely wrong that he is telling his future wife who WILL be a bridesmaid, rather than getting your take on it. I think having FSIL as a bridesmaid is not too bad, although it's definitely not mandatory at all. You both are getting married and you both should voice opinions, not determine for the other what will take place. Always give your input, and listen to the other person. That's the best way to do it. I agree with how you're feeling about the situation. If my FH told me that one of his groomsmen wants his sister to be my bridesmaid, I would immediately decline and wouldn't give it another thought. It's self explanatory why I'd say no in that situation. I would never choose someone to be my bridesmaid and I know NOTHING about this person. Furthermore, agreeing with Valerie 100%, a bridesmaid's "duties" aren't really mandatory at all. They don't have to plan you any parties, or even attend them. I know, I get where you're coming from. But, yeah it's not at all a job. I have my 3 sisters and 2 FSILs being my bridesmaids and I expect nothing of them except for them to acquire their dresses and do their hair (might provide makeup for them). I do not except them or my MOH to throw me any sort of party! I know though, every culture is different, so I respect that. Bottom line, speak with your FH and tell him that while you understand this little friend is like a little sister to him, you don't really feel comfortable with making her a bridesmaid. Perhaps she can have a different role? A little usher? Giving out wedding programs and stuff like that? Can she sing? Maybe she can sing during your reception? And see if you can compromise with him. All the best!!!!Smiley heart

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  • A
    Savvy September 2020
    angela ·
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    Ok so i get this one a little bit. He probably isnt aware the little sister can be a grooms girl and wants her to bond with you. Having the little friend be one is to keep his sister company. When your the youngest in the group, it can be lonely and you can feel left out. So let him known the girls can stand on his side. I was a best lady at my exs wedding. Black pants, white corset, black jacket, tiny feathered top hat.
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  • Colleen
    Master September 2019
    Colleen ·
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    Our grromsladied are wearing dresses
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