Married Women Can Be Bridesmaids — and Here's Why It Matters

Weddings are among the most cherished events for us, blending traditional Filipino customs with today’s modern touches. Amid all the excitement and planning, many brides begin to wonder about the best way to celebrate and whether it’s still appropriate—or even expected—to invite a married woman to join as a bridesmaid. The reality might surprise you, showing that in Filipino weddings today, what’s most important are the relationships, not outdated or rigid traditions.

Reimagining Bridesmaid Traditions

The idea that a bridesmaid must be unmarried is no longer a common belief. This used to be anchored in old superstitious and traditional Filipino standards, but these have faded away as couples today focus more on the depth of their relationship with their wedding entourage rather than their marital status.

It’s now heartwarming to see wedding celebrations filled with genuine love, friendship, and shared milestones. Choosing a married friend—or even an older sibling—to stand by your side as a bridesmaid or maid of honor now feels natural. The joy comes not from the title but from including those most precious in your life—who will support you through every laugh, cry, and last-minute changes before you walk down the aisle.

Dispelling Wedding Superstitions

Perhaps you’ve heard old beliefs that only unmarried women can be bridesmaids for good luck. Thankfully, this superstition has been left behind. There’s no proof to back up claims that your luck depends on your bridal party’s marital status. In fact, challenging these ideas sends a positive message—Filipino weddings are now all about inclusion and meaningful bonds.

"The most touching weddings I’ve witnessed were those where brides chose friends and family—married or not—who truly understand their journey."

If you’re asking yourself, can a married woman really be a bridesmaid, rest assured that emotional connections and memories far outweigh old superstitions. I have seen first-hand how having married bridesmaids brings a feeling of warmth and a fresh perspective to Filipino weddings.

Titles and Roles: Maid, Matron, or Simply Bridesmaid

The terms “maid of honor” and “matron of honor” often cause confusion. In simple terms, a “matron of honor” is a married bridesmaid, while a “maid of honor” is unmarried. For everyone else, “bridesmaid” works perfectly—no need to stress about labels unless you want to highlight a specific role.

Some couples honor their matron of honor by having her wear a different dress or mentioning her in their speeches. Yet these gestures should come from shared experiences, not just a marriage title or status.

Celebrating Both Maid and Matron of Honor

Having both a maid and matron of honor is more than acceptable; it’s a smart way to celebrate when you have several special people in your life. This approach brings an extra sense of support, harmony, and meaning—making every bouquet carried a symbol of treasured connections.

Choosing who will stand with you on your big day is not just about tradition—it’s about inclusivity and genuine respect. Whatever the label—maid of honor, matron of honor, bridesmaid, or simply best friend—each role weaves into the special fabric of your Filipino wedding adventure.

When you wonder “what do you call a married bridesmaid?” or whether the role fits your celebration, remember that the heart of your wedding is the relationships, not the rules. Filipino wedding customs today put sincere friendships and meaningful experiences above all else. That’s a value worth keeping.