Wedding Party

We decided not to have a wedding party and it was one of the best decisions of wedding planning. So much easier and a whole aspect I'm not having to deal with. But, I think its fine to still have your "girls" but them not be official bridesmaids. That's kind of what I'm doing. My two closest cousins, aunt, and mother will be getting ready with me.

I think if having a bridal party is important to you, you should tell your FH that it’s totally fine for him
to skip it, but it’s something you really want. Is there a specific aspect of having a bridal party that he’s not happy about? Maybe you could just compromise on that one thing. Like they don’t necessarily have to stand with you at the altar. If you just want to make your closest friends feel special, ask them to get ready with you and/or do readings or speeches.

My friend is doing exactly as you described, unofficial bridesmaids. We are all there for her with planning things, will attend bridal shower, bachelorette party and will get ready with her the morning of. I think she's also going to be taking some official pictures with us too, but it's a year out so I'm not sure. We aren't wearing matching dresses or standing up front during the ceremony (or the dinner) but everything else is pretty much the same!

I think getting them corsages is a great idea too

I think you should have bridesmaids and tell your FI to just deal

He doesn't have to have any, but I don't think he should get to dictate whether you can or can't have attendants. Same for you, if you decide to have them, you shouldn't insist that he have some just because you do! It's totally fine and normal for sides to be uneven!

I think matching necklaces is a nice, subtle way to acknowledge them!

Thank you for all the advice ladies!