Q: I Don’t Want Bridesmaids. What Should I Do Instead?

Skipping the whole bridesmaid thing is perfectly acceptable, so don’t stress about it for one more minute. If you would still like to include your friends and family in your ceremony, there are plenty of ways to do it. Enlist them to recite poems or other special readings, help guests find their seats, announce you at the reception, and be part of your wedding day photo shoot. Having your family and besties sit with you at your reception table is another lovely way to honor those closest to you.

Forgoing bridesmaids does not mean you have to say no to a bachelorette party and bridal shower. Plan an evening out with your best pals, go camping or hiking, enjoy a day spa excursion, or have an old-fashioned sleepover like when you were teenagers. Do whatever you want—strict wedding rules are a thing of the past, and more and more couples are doing exactly what they desire, no matter how unconventional. Your wedding day is about your and the person you love—if it does not match your vision, what is the point? You might as well go to city hall! Do what works for you..and have a fantastic, amazing, wonderful time.