Once your bridesmaids said yes to the role, the next big step is to plan what they will be wearing. Of course, you certainly want to make sure that your entourage looks as great as you are. This will make sure that everyone wants to have their pictures taken after the event. The truth is that it is not easy to shop bridesmaid dresses, but it does not have to be stressful for you.

Begin the task with an online research.

Before you even plan to see the dresses in their actual stores, it’s wise to research online. Remember that every style of bridesmaid dress can be seen online. This makes the research easy, faster, and time-saving.

Be open about setting the budget.

Planning for a wedding can be as sensitive as a minefield. Budget for the bridesmaids’ dresses is one of the delicate topics that can interfere with the meticulously planned planning process. Don’t run away from this conversation. This will influence your decision of where to shop bridesmaid dresses even before you start the process. It’s a good thing the bridesmaids today have numerous options of gorgeous dresses at any price range. They may opt for an off-the-rack dress or a custom-designed gown.

Include the alteration costs in the budget.

Almost 75 percent of bridesmaid dresses need alteration. The cost may differ from $25 to $100. A tall bridesmaid may require extra length to the dress aside from the usual changes in size and hemming. If you have a bridesmaid who is 5’8 and the dress chosen is long. Considering the high heels, it is indeed inevitable to add more length to the gown for an extra cost.

Start early in your shopping.

It’s more convenient for you to shop for the bridal party at least 7 to 8 months ahead of time. This will make it less stressful for you apart from the fact that you may be able to find a great sale or a quarterly trunk show yet still have time to have the dresses altered without any rush. Make sure that you order the bridesmaid gowns at the same time to ensure their quality. This also makes it easy to find great discounts.

Make sure the measurements are done professionally.

Even if you are buying off the rack or getting made-to-order bridesmaid dresses, the bridesmaids have to be measured and fit into a pre-existing size. Every designer has a different sizing which makes it important for every bridesmaid to provide the right measurements. This will avoid problems later on. That’s why it is a must to get the measurements from a professional seamstress.

For the bridesmaids, it is crucial that they follow the lead of the bride. Whatever you choose to do with the dress, make sure that you seek the guidance of the bride.

Paul Petersen