They are invited to all the pre-wedding parties and may give one if they wish. Bridesmaids are responsible for assembling and paying for their own wedding outfits and other expenses except the flowers. It is acceptable for the bride or her parents to pay expenses for any or all the bridesmaids, but it is seldom done. They escort guests as they arrive and exit, and like the bridesmaids, should show concern for the guests. Allow one usher per 40 guests as a rule.
Groomsmen provide their own clothing, either purchased or rented.
It is advisable to have the ushers arrive at the ceremony 45 minutes to an hour beforehand. The number of ushers need not match the number of bridesmaids unless you plan to have them walk together in the recessional. If there are candles to be lit, light them just before the guests start arriving, beginning with altar candles. Ushering before the ceremony. Then he offers his right arm to the lady, holding his hand loosely across his chest and ushers them to the proper place.