The bride's maids and the groomsmen are central to the success of any wedding. The groom will of course choose his best bud to be his best man. Others in the groom's wedding party should be those to whom he is most close, as long as they are close enough to make it to the wedding. Having friends stand up with him to whom he feels close is more than a symbolic gesture. In some ways it is a request for them to be a part of this special relationship upon which the bride and groom are embarking.

Sometimes the bride may have a brother who she wishes to have as one of the groomsmen. The groom may not know the brother well, depending on the circumstances, but I don't see that as a problem. The groom is unlikely to have to bounce one of his friends in order to make room for the bride's brother. I have never seen a wedding where the groom had too many groomsmen. Usually the groom is scrambling to come up with guys for his side since the bride has chosen so many to stand up with her.

The groomsmen are taking a vow in their position just as are the bride and groom. They are saying that this man is important to them and they care about his happiness just as they believe he cares about their happiness. Their silent vow goes beyond standing with the groom at the wedding. It is a vow to support the relationship in whatever way they can and to be there for their friend in good times and bad.

Learn more about this author, Rob Bryant.
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