Can a Married Woman Be a Bridesmaid? The Answer Might Surprise You

Choosing your bridesmaids is one of the most fun and exciting parts of wedding planning. Not only is it a cause for celebration, but it's also a special opportunity to honor the important people in your life. If you're wondering, "Can a married woman be a bridesmaid?" we've got you covered: Rest assured, one's status has no bearing on their ability to be a vital part of your wedding.

Moreover, whether married or unmarried, the key is selecting those who support you—and will continue to—as you embark on this new, exciting chapter. On a similar note, a married friend or family member can absolutely reciprocate a bridesmaid request, playing an essential role in your wedding day and all the memorable—and, let's face it, sometimes stressful!—moments leading up to it.

In this article:

• Can a Married Woman Be a Bridesmaid?
• Is It Bad Luck to Have a Married Bridesmaid?
• What Do You Call a Bridesmaid Who is Married?
• How to Honor a Matron of Honor
• Can You Have Both a Maid of Honor and a Matron of Honor?

Can a Married Woman Be a Bridesmaid?

We don't know who needs to hear this, but the answer is an astounding and enthusiastic yes. The idea that a bride should only have unmarried women in her wedding party is an ancient wedding superstition, and there's no official rule against it.

While bridesmaids were once considered single women, times have changed—and for the better. Nowadays, married bridesmaids can (and should!) be included in the festivities, especially if they're close friends or family members of the to-be-wed. Asking someone to be a bridesmaid is a meaningful way to honor the people who've supported you, and to have them by your side not only on the big day but throughout all the celebrations leading up to it.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

In short, instead of focusing on someone's marital status, think about how important they are to you and how they have shown up for you in both triumphs and tribulations. After all, choosing your bridesmaids should be about celebrating meaningful relationships and having the people you love by your side when you say "I do."

Is It Bad Luck to Have a Married Bridesmaid?

Let's set the record straight—once and for all—for those asking, "Is it bad luck to have a married bridesmaid?" There is absolutely no factual basis to this wives' tale. As stated earlier, someone else's marital status should never have any impact—good or bad—on your wedding day and beyond. Not only is this belief outdated, but it's also untrue and, frankly, insulting to the married bridesmaid. Instead of focusing on luck and superstitions, remember that what matters most is the love and support of your wedding party, not whether or not they're in a lawfully committed relationship.

What Do You Call a Bridesmaid Who is Married?

Although there are several married bridesmaid titles you can use, "bridesmaid" works just fine for anyone who is serving bridesmaid duties. However, you may also hear the terms "matron of honor" thrown around, which refers to the head bridesmaid who is married, or "matron bridesmaid."

While the word "matron" might have old-fashioned connotations, it simply distinguishes a married woman from an unmarried one. So, when it comes to narrowing down your wedding party and working on bridesmaid proposals, the only title you need to think of is the person's role and importance in your life (for example, if you want your sister to serve as matron of honor), as opposed to their marital status, which, as previously mentioned, should have no impact on your relationship with them.

How to Honor a Matron of Honor

The matron of honor will likely be by your side for most—if not all—of the wedding planning process and festivities, including the bridal shower, bachelorette party, wedding dress shopping and more. Since they've devoted so much time to supporting you ahead of your wedding day, you may want to acknowledge them on the day itself.

Not sure where to start? There are several ways to honor a matron of honor, just as you would a maid of honor. However, one of the more popular ways to acknowledge these individuals—and set them apart from regular bridesmaids—is through special attire or accessories, such as a dress in a different color or style. While not at all mandatory, some couples also choose to acknowledge key members of the wedding party— in this case, the matron of honor—in their speech.

Can You Have Both a Maid of Honor and a Matron of Honor?

It is possible—and totally acceptable—to have both a maid of honor and a matron of honor. We said it before, and we'll say it again for the folks in the back: This role should not be filled based on one's relationship status. So, if you have a sister who is married and a best friend who is single (or vice versa), you can most certainly honor both of them by appointing them to this special role. Besides, since wedding planning can be stressful, it's always good to have more helping hands, physically or figuratively as an ear to listen.