Bridesmaids

I finally asked my closest friends to be in the bridal party. There is one friend of mine who is away for medical school and is unsure she will be around for my wedding but wants to be there if she can. Should I and the maid of honor include her in the whole planning or should I find a backup. And if I do find a backup, how should I handle the whole situation. Your input is greatly appreciated.

I am actually taking a seminar for my job on Monday on how to deal with vendors. Hopefully, that will help in planning my wedding!

I am sure she will do her best to be there but to take the pressure off I would give her an out - something like 'We would love to have you in our wedding party but we understand how difficult and all consuming med school, instead of being a bridesmaid would you like to participate in our day by (doing a reading, making a toast etc.) That way she still participates but doesn't have the quilt of not helping as much as she might like to. Just my opinion, for what its worth.

Well gang thanks for all you well wishes. Means alot to me. I have a ton of running around today. Getting nails done, and getting me and all my things over to the hotel where I am staying tonight and the night of the wedding. I don't know that I'll be able to stop by here again until after I get back from my honeymoon!! Again thanks for everything.
Hugs!

I agree...wedding parties do not have to 'match up' so that there's just as many females as male attendents. Pick who you want regarless of the 'even number' issue. If she later declines, leave it at that...nobody should fill her shoes.

Thank you for your input and ideas. I definitely like the ideas you have all suggested. If my nearest and dearest friends are there beside me then that is what should matter most, not if the bridal party is evenly matched. THANKS TO ALL WHO RESPONDED!!!!

Good Luck