Witnesses are very important when it comes to Polish Weddings. They show up both at the church and civil ceremony. Just as it is in US both of them are usually best friends or family members of the bride and/or groom. There are few responsibilities that witnesses need to fulfill. They need to organize bachelor/bachelorette party, help in preparations for the wedding, take care of wedding bands before the ceremony, help receive flowers and gifts from guests, take active role during oczepiny*, prepare toasts and make sure everyone is having a good time at the time of the wedding.
In Polish tradition there has never been brides maids or grooms men however, more and more often, influenced by Western culture we can see wedding party growing in size.
Swiadkowie = Witnesses
*Oczepiny = Midnight tradition, similar to throwing bridal bouquet or bow tie etc. (more details coming soon)
The above pictures are taken by Wojciech from Warszawa.
My personal opinion is that having a huge bridal party is inconvenient for everyone. If you ever stood up in a wedding you know you pay quite a bit for this honor. I know people who stand up 3 or 4 times a year in a different weddings and it adds up for them really quickly. Also, it isn't hard to pick a best friend, but it is hard to narrow down to 3 or 4 friends or family members because you just might offend somebody.
It is nice however, to let your friends know you need them. And during a wedding there is plenty to do. Pick out responsibilities for them so they feel wanted and needed. It will also give you time to spend together. Remember just because they are not wearing the same dresses or tuxes it doesn't mean they can't be included in your wedding pictures!
The above pictures are taken by Pawel from Szubin.
The above pictures are taken by Igor from Bialystok.
The above pictures are taken by Adam from Kielce.
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