Weddings have changed a lot over the course of history. While the main idea remains the same, the traditions and rituals surrounding these milestone moments tend to vary. The beauty of modern marriages is that couples are approaching the familiar from a variety of new angles. If you’ve been on the fence about having a wedding party, for example, then it can be encouraging to discover that countless people have chosen to ditch this tradition for one reason or another.

Classically known as the bridal party, this group is a collection of bridesmaids and groomsmen who act as moral support to the couple on their big day. Though it seems like a nice tradition, the wedding party can bring about several issues as well. Review these points and learn why opting for no party may be in your best interests.

Save Some Money

Weddings cost a small fortune. No matter the size or scope of your event, you need to put down a chunk of change to cover all of the services involved in bringing the day to life. Naturally, when an opportunity to save comes along, most people jump at it. While a wedding party might exist to make your life easier, a lot of strain is put on the budget by this inclusion. Traditionally, those in the party cover the costs of their attire, but this is far from the only expense related to the party.

From accessories like bouquets to the gifts you give to the group for taking part in your big day, having a wedding party adds a lot of extra costs to the mix. By opting out of this tradition, you can save a little bit of money to use for more pressing matters.

Avoid Hurt Feelings

A wedding party is usually composed of a small group of people. However, there are couples who have a ton of intimate relationships. If you come from a large family or your partner has a huge group of besties, then the wedding party standing before the crowd can easily look like the ensemble of a Broadway play. What’s more, you’re bound to exclude someone from the list. Even though it isn’t your intention, there will be those who feel slighted by your decision. 

Another bonus of foregoing the wedding party is that you can avoid conflict between friends and family members. People who already hold resentment toward one another may take it out on you if one is asked to be in the party and not the other. When you have no party, you have no drama to worry about. Choosing to ditch a wedding party might annoy some people. Most will understand it was your right to make that decision. 

Experience Less Stress

Though the people closest to you have likely helped you in countless ways over the years, many have also probably given you grief. Some friends and family are always late, unreliable, or boast other negative traits that could mar your festivities. If this sounds familiar, then getting rid of the wedding party is a surefire way to feel less stressed overall.

Do Your Own Thing

Dropping a tradition that you don’t care about provides you with the opportunity to find an alternative. Instead of having a wedding party, you can do something else that shows your friends and family how much they mean to your relationship. Some couples host small parties with their closest confidants in the days leading up to the wedding, allowing for an intimate celebration before the main occasion. There are countless easy ways to show gratitude without needing to stress yourself out by including a wedding party.

Although a tradition, there is no rule stating you need to have a wedding party involved in your big day. Take time to weigh the pros and cons and determine the best fit.