Godmother And Bridesmaid: What’s The Difference?

In Catholic countries, the figure of the bridesmaid is known to everyone, especially for her symbolic function during the ceremony. However, you have certainly seen in many American movies that the bride must choose a bridesmaid.

In other cases, this lady is one of the children in the family who, in front of the bride, throws flowers, opening the way to the altar. However, do you know the roles and differences between bridesmaids and bridesmaids? In this article we will show you!

Godmother and bridesmaid

Both the bridesmaid and the godmother are symbolic figures within the tradition. Although none of them are accepted in canon or ecclesiastical law, the presence of the godmother and one or several bridesmaids at the wedding is almost an obligation.

However, there are important differences between a bridesmaid and a bridesmaid. Let’s get to know them better.

The godmother

The godmother is a typical wedding figure in the Catholic Church. Usually, it is the mother or other woman in the family who escorts the groom down the aisle. Furthermore, she remains with him until the end of the ceremony. Likewise, the best man accompanies the bride.

However, the godmother is not a figure covered by canon law. It is simply a “companion” accepted by tradition. However, it is a way to pay tribute to the groom’s mother. In fact, your role is also critical on this special day.

On the other hand, their functions are not just to accompany the groom during the ceremony and to remain at his side or in the front row of the pews. The godmother should advise the groom to choose a suit, provide support, amuse the bride and, of course, receive congratulations and host the banquet.

Also, due to her leadership role, the godmother must dress elegantly, but not overdo it. She can choose any color except black or white (reserved for the bride).

the bridesmaid

The bridesmaid is an ancient tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. So, it was mainly a girl from the bride’s family who accompanied her during the ceremony.

However, this idea was changing and was no longer a child to be any woman bonded and chosen by the bride, known as the “flower girl”.

In general, depending on tradition, the bridesmaid can be:

• A child (female) who simply accompanies the bride.
• A girl, friend or relative of the bride who opens the court on her way to the altar, usually throwing flowers in front of the bride.

Also, as she opens the way to the altar, her choice is really important. In fact, it must be someone who brings luck to the marriage, because it symbolically opens the way.

In addition to opening the way to the altar, bridesmaids (adults) have other obligations:

• Help the bride organize the wedding and the bridal shower (or bachelorette party).
• Make way for the altar (throwing flowers or not). Anyway, the floral motif is always important.

• Accompany and advise the bride in her choice of dress.
• Make sure the bride’s dress, hairstyle and makeup are perfect before entering the church.
• Accommodate the train of the dress on the altar.
• During the ceremony, they usually sit in the second row of benches.

Godmother or bridesmaid?

Now you know the differences. Also, did you notice something? The godmother’s existence does not rule out that of the bridesmaids.

So if your partner wants to be accompanied by his mother and you feel like you need the courtship of your best friends during your marriage, you can perfectly well have both! The most important thing is that on that day you have the most important people by your side to support and help you.