Before you get to that point, let's consider the true meaning of having a bridal party. These select individuals are not only witnesses to your nuptials, but also play a special role leading up to, and on the big day; caring for the needs of the bride and groom.

To begin the selection process, start by jotting down the first few names that come to mind - best friends, siblings and other close family members, such as nieces and nephews. Then consider the number of guests that you will be inviting. If you are planning to have a huge wedding with three hundred people, it would be more reasonable to have a larger bridal party - five or more bridesmaids and five or more groomsmen. On the other hand, if you plan to have a small wedding with less than 50 of your closest loved ones, it would make more sense to only have one or two bridesmaids and one or two groomsmen.

Be cautious about choosing recently made friends, roommates that aren't particularly good friends or random extended family members you haven't seen in years for your bridal party.  This is especially true for the maid or matron of honor and best man. You may find yourself feeling pressured or obligated to include them...DON'T; this is your day!  Chances are you will hardly speak to them after all of the hoopla is over!

The flower girl and ring bearer are also included as part of the bridal party. Again, start by jotting down names of the beloved youngsters in the life of you and your groom-to-be. Some couples choose to have more than one flower girl, which is a nice way to include more girls in your ceremony.

Once you've chosen your bridal party, you may still have a list of names that you would like to include in the ceremony or reception activities, but with a much smaller role. Asking extended family or friends to participate as one of the following is a great alternative: (Remember that no task is insignificant; in fact, they can be very meaningful and a lot of help.)

 Reader - You may want to have a scripture, poem or other short piece of literature read as part of your ceremony. Having a friend or family member read during the ceremony will not only be a beautiful addition, but will allow you to include him or her.

Singer - Many couples choose a song to be incorporated into their ceremony. If you have a talented someone that you would like to include, ask him or her to be your soloist.

Greeter - As your guests arrive, greeters can help make them feel welcome, while guiding them to the ceremony or reception sites.

Usher - Ushering can be handled by your groomsman; but if you have a lot of guests and would like to recruit a few more to help, it's always nice to have ample ushers.

Gift Table or Guest Book Signing Attendant - If you have a couple of preteen/teen girls that you would like to include, asking them to tend to the various tables are a simple but nice touch.

Candle Lighter - Asking someone to be in charge of making sure all of the candles are lit before the ceremony and/or reception will give you one less detail to worry about and may be the perfect task for one of your mature guests (this job is not recommended for youngsters).

Keep in mind that you are not required to incorporate any of those mentioned above - not even bridesmaids, maid of honor, groomsmen, best man, flower girl or ring bearer. If you don't have anyone for the role or you just don't care to have the role, it's your wedding.  You can include (or exclude) any bridal party position you want.  Choose your wedding party without guilt!