Whether you’re eschewing gender-based wedding customs, being more inclusive, prioritizing relationships over tradition or some combination of the three, it’s entirely up to you to decide who’s going to stand next to you and your spouse-to-be when tying the knot. Gone are the days when a bride has to have a maid of honor for the big day. Your bestie or closest sibling may be of a different gender or none at all. A mixed-gender wedding party is a great option for soon-to-be newlyweds, and here are some tips and ideas if this is the move for you.

Bucking Traditions With a Mixed-Gender Wedding Party 

Ditch the “bridal” when it comes to describing the souls who are standing up for you and your partner. Some marriage ceremonies don’t have brides, and de-genderizing your wedding party means abandoning concepts such as “bridesmaid,” “best man” and “groomsman.” You and your partner are about to start your union, and symbolically, the people in your wedding party should be thought of as a unit and not belonging to a bride or groom. 

Making an Entrance

Countless marriage ceremonies feature processionals and recessionals with groomsmen and bridesmaids walking together. In a coed or mixed-gender wedding party, you can do something different. Consider having members of the wedding party walk in pairs irrespective of gender. They can also walk in and out solo. Think of the people supporting you as being symbolic of your future together and not your past as individuals.

Choosing Colors

Traditionally white is associated with a bride (and sometimes a groom). There will be a particular color scheme for the bridesmaids and the groomsmen. With a mixed-gender wedding party, it’s important to think about the entire group when picking your colors. Instead of associating a particular hue with genders, consider a range of pastels. This offers your group flexibility and versatility when it comes to attire. Soft blues, oranges and pinks can work with sportscoats, dresses and other accessories. Prioritize coordination over matching.

It’s hard to beat the timeless look of black. Dark neutrals such as black, navy, brown and gray look good on a variety of styles, shapes and silhouettes. You might love the look of a unified basic outfit in one of these darker shades, especially when paired with lighter accessories that can be up to the discretion of participants. Colors can be symbolic of diversity and individuality.

Relaxing Your Rules With a Mixed-Gender Wedding Party

Normally the wedding choices are left up to those getting married. With a gender-inclusive group, consider relaxing the rules and giving your loved ones flexibility on how they show up. Women may want to wear pants or jumpsuits instead of dresses. Men may want to ditch the blazer and neckwear. Nonbinary people may prefer to pair a tuxedo with a cute pair of pumps. Make your loved ones’ sense of comfort and style a priority as a show of appreciation for their presence and support. 

Combining Pre-Wedding Festivities

Often we associate bridesmaids and groomsmen with being responsible for pre-ceremony gatherings, namely bridal showers and bachelor or bachelorette parties. With a mixed-gender wedding party, you should think about combining these occasions into one big event. Think about experiences that would include the whole group as opposed to activities that are based on gender or orientation. You might have a group that would collectively enjoy a spa day, a weekend in Vegas or several rounds on the golf course, but nearly everyone loves a party with good food and drinks.

When you’re ready to say “I do” to the one you love, you want to be surrounded by those who have been closest. Love is not bound by gender or sexual orientation, and neither are friendships. Mixed-gender wedding parties mean you can choose anyone to stand up for you and your partner on the big day.