Q: My girlfriends have been so excited about my wedding since the engagement. Several of them have asked about being bridesmaids. We've decided to have a small affair without a bridal party. How do I break it to them gently?

A: How lucky are you? Your girlfriends must be a very tight-knit group of women who care about you very much. You can invite them out to lunch or plan a special day to let them know that you've decided to forgo the bridal party for your intimate event. If they know you well, they'll be completely supportive.

Concerned about making sure you still have a support system on your wedding day? Ask your friends to join you in the bridal suite while you get ready for the ceremony. Or plan a girls' lunch or dinner a week or two before the wedding so you can spend some quality time with your gals.