10 ways to involve friends who aren’t in the wedding party

Choosing your bridal party is already a tough call, but it gets even trickier when you start thinking about all the other roles to fill. We cross paths with so many people who’ve shaped our lives, and while we’d love to have everyone standing beside us, the bridal party can only be so big.

That’s where the other roles come in. From ceremony readers to dance floor hype crew, there are so many thoughtful ways to involve friends who aren’t in the wedding party (without squeezing them into matching outfits). It’s about honouring your connections and making everyone feel part of the celebration, even if they’re not in the official lineup.

This one is for the friends (and family) you couldn’t fit in, but couldn’t leave out. We share some meaningful roles for those friends who aren’t in the wedding party.

1. MC: The one who lights up the room

If your friend has a natural stage presence and a captivating personality, the role of MC could be a perfect fit for them. A charismatic MC will set the right tone for your reception, and it’s a bonus point if they know you and your partner well enough. They’ll be able to add in personal touches and inside jokes that bring more warmth to the celebration. 

2. Celebrant: The only one who’s qualified to make it official

Is your friend officially registered to perform wedding ceremonies? If that’s the case, this could be the perfect opportunity to make your ceremony extra personal and meaningful. While professional celebrants are experienced, having a close friend lead the ceremony adds a level of intimacy that makes the moment feel even more special. 

3. Stylist: The one who curates inspiring mood boards

Does your friend spend too much time on Pinterest? Are they someone you call when you need urgent styling advice? Perhaps this friend is the best person to bring your wedding vision to life with decor setup and styling. Whether it’s the floral arrangements, the centrepieces, or the tablecloth colour, having someone who knows your taste to help with the wedding setup ensures that every detail reflects your unique style and preferences. 

4. Usher: The one who hosts all the gatherings

A wedding usher is an ideal role for close friends who aren’t in the wedding party but are familiar with most of your guests, or for those who may not know everyone but are extroverted and welcoming. Ushers are responsible for greeting guests as they arrive and guiding them to their seats. It might seem like a small task but it’s definitely an important one. Your ushers help set the tone for your reception and ensure that your loved ones are comfortable and well looked after. 

5. Reception toast speaker: The one who quotes Maya Angelou

Some people have a natural flair for storytelling. If you have friends who aren’t in the wedding party but keep you hooked and entertained with their anecdotes, don’t hesitate to hand them the mic. Whether they bring the room to tears or laughter, it’s a beautiful way to include them in your wedding day. 

6. Glam team: The one with an impressive makeup stash

If you have a friend or two in the beauty biz, invite them to be part of your wedding glam squad. There’s nothing more heartwarming than getting ready for your big day with people who know you well. Maybe a little hype-up is what you need, or maybe it’s a sense of calm and comfort. Plus, your friends are probably familiar with your style and preferences, making it easier to create a look that feels authentic to you. 

7. Content creator: The one who sends you TikTok memes

We all have at least one friend who’s up-to-date with the latest social media trends. Whether it’s updating your followers with real-time Insta stories or capturing candid moments for Reels and TikTok videos, you can brief your friend with your preferences and let them handle the rest. By the end of it, you’ll have a library of wedding content to cherish and share on your social media pages.

8. Ceremony reader: The one who makes everyone tear up on cue.

A ceremony reader adds heart to the moment, whether it’s a poem, a favourite quote, or something spiritual. It’s the perfect role for someone who’s confident speaking and can bring the feels without stealing the spotlight.

9. Marriage license witness: The one who signs it so it’s legit.

Signing the marriage license is the moment your wedding becomes official: it’s where love meets legal. Choosing someone close to you to witness it isn’t just paperwork; it’s personal. They’re not only signing a document, they’re standing beside you as your relationship becomes a recognised partnership. It’s a small role with big meaning, and a powerful way to include a friend who isn’t in your wedding party in one of the most intimate parts of your day.

10. Musician/ DJ: The one with a killer playlist

If your friend is musically gifted or keeps the party going with their playlists, don’t think twice about having them curate your wedding soundtrack. Whether they’re performing your first dance song or mixing tracks for the afterparty, it’s a creative way to include them in the celebration. They have the opportunity to showcase their talent while adding a personal touch to your celebration with tailored music that matches your unique love story. 

Roles for friends who aren’t in the wedding party? We’ve got you sorted.

So, if you’re thinking of putting your talented mates to work – whether it’s spinning tracks, snapping pics, or saying a few words – these roles are a great way to make them feel included. Planning a smaller, more personal celebration? Even better. Just remember, not every role needs filling, and sometimes the best gift is letting your people just show up and enjoy it. But if you do need a hand from the pros, Easy Weddings has a lineup of trusted suppliers who’ve got you covered when your inner circle taps out. From musicians and DJs to celebrants, transport, and wedding hair & makeup, we’ve got you sorted.