How soon is to soon to announce your bridesmaid and maid of honor

Don’t ask anyone before 6 months before the wedding because there is nothing they need to do other than purchase a dress of your choosing. Asking earlier than that can backfire as relationships can and do change.


Save your money and get a heartfelt thank you gift after the wedding that fits their individual interests as if you were shopping for their birthday. Proposal boxes are a recent Pinterest trend that largely get tossed or donated and put your friends on the spot to say yes without consideration whether they can financially or emotionally commit to the role. Also, be very explicit with any expectations so they are informed and can make the decision.

There is no set period as to when is appropriate to ask people to be part of your bridal party however it is generally advised that this is done no more than 6-12 months prior to your wedding to avoid asking friends too early and having that friendship sour in the time leading up to the wedding.

I understand some people err on the side of caution and leave this until the 6 month mark but for me personally, I wouldn't wait beyond the 8 month mark because depending on where you order bridesmaids dresses from, there can be delays in order time (still because of COVID) so I personally would want the wiggle room to ensure there is adequate time to go shopping and order dresses (if not purchasing off the rack).

Mine knew before I even got engaged lol. But I sent out my formal asks in October 2021 and Im getting married March 2023. These are all very long term friends who have made it through the tests of long distance post college so I dont foresee any issues. I love them and wouldnt want anyone other than the 4 i chose.

Also, all I sent was a cute card I found on zazzle I think. They said "He's marrying me, but he's stuck with us. Will you be my (BM, MOH)?" I sent my MOH a little something extra because I found her a necklace with her favorite crystal while my husband and I were at a ren faire.

We usually suggest to wait until 6 months before the wedding. Things change, you'd be amazed at how many posts we get with people regretting asking early.

I see alot of people suggest 6 months. I asked all of mine shortly after getting engaged but 2 of them are my sisters and my maid of honor and I have been super close friends for over 20 years. All of them have been awesome so far. Outside of bouncing ideas off of them for a few things I havent asked them for much of anything.

I gave mine 9 months out but I only have two people and discussed it with them a year out. It’s my sister and very close friend so there was never asking too early in my situation