How Late is Too Late to Ask Someone to be a Bridesmaid?

cinnagirl · December 18, 2012

Hey ladies, I could really use your help with a dilemma that I've been having.

Our wedding is May of next year. I currently have two maid of honors who I asked to stand up with me at the start of the year. These girls are really good friends that I've had since 2006. I had a bridesmaid as well, but she back out due to financial reasons.

I have a friend, named Alison, that I have been friends with since we were both 10. I did not ask her to be a bridesmaid because at the time she was in school with no job, and I wasn't even sure if she'd be able to make it to the wedding. I didn't want to place a financial burden on her because I know how much her and her family struggles.

However, as time goes past, I realize that I really want Alison to have an honored role on our wedding day, and I'd love for her to stand up beside me on the big day. I also realize that it was wrong of me to not let her say "yes" or "no" to being a bridesmaid based on how I saw her current situation to be. That is a decision she should have been able to make herself.

What I'm wondering is, how late is too late to ask someone to be a bridesmaid? Would it be rude if I asked her now? Or if I just explain the situation honestly (that I should have asked her from the start, and that I did not want to place a financial burden on her), do you think it's okay? I would not be asking Alison to replace anyone that isn't there, as she should have been there from the start. My maid of honors have not got their dresses yet (though they really need to asap) so Alison wouldn't have missed out on anything in that regards either.

The other option I thought of that would give her a role in the wedding, would be to ask her to do a reading during the ceremony. I'd also ask her get ready with us the morning of the wedding.

Should I give her both options?

I'm so confused and I feel horrible every day that goes by. Any opinions would be so appreciated!!

Mufin1785 · December 18, 2012

No I do not think it is too late. We asked my brother to be a groomsman, with our wedding 4 months out, and this was after my FH's brother backed out. My brother is already booked to go and we are covering most of the attire he only has to pay $36.99 for the remaining amount due on the suit rental. So he really did not have to do anything extra.