Tag: budget

Posted on by — 4 Comments

Fixing the date: The advantages and disadvantages of weddings in each season

Weddings can take place anytime of the year! Today, it is possible to be a winter bride, just as you can be a spring or summer bride. While this flexibility is great for some brides, others may end up being more confused with the availability of more choices.

If you are currently in this situation; having trouble deciding the best time of year to have your wedding, here is some help. Take a look at our list to compare the pros and cons of getting married in any season. Hopefully, this will help you pick the option that is just right for you.

Spring

spring

“Now every field is clothed with grass, and every tree with leaves; now the woods put forth their blossoms, and the year assumes its gay attire.”

The Roman poet, Virgil captures the essence of spring in the above quote. Spring is a season to rejoice, and nature shows us how to. As Mother Nature marks this season with welcome warmth after a chilly winter, pops of color begin to appear everywhere. As flowers bloom and the green grass sprouts in bounty, the air feels fresh and alive. Associated with fresh scents, cool weather and beautiful natural backdrops, many couples find spring the best season to get married. So, here are the advantages and disadvantages of picking a date in this season, for your wedding.

Advantages

  • Just the right temperature: Neither is spring stifling and warm like summer, nor chilly like autumn or winter. The temperature is just perfect to relax and enjoy. So, your guests will look forward to attending a ceremony and not complain about making the trek in bad weather. Plus, the right temperature makes it possible to plan an outdoor wedding
  • Season when colors pop: Take the cue from nature itself. Spring is when fresh buds bloom and create a cascade of beautiful colors in the natural landscape. The lush greenery makes it the right time to plan an equally colorful, warm wedding. So, if you must have bright colors at your wedding, this is the season to choose.
  • Plenty of flowers to choose from: A stunning variety of flowers blossom in spring, making it easy for you to find flowers of every color and texture for your wedding décor, bouquets and more.
  • The season for most vegetables and fruits: If you want to make the most of seasonally available bounty for your wedding, spring is the right choice. This is when most vegetables and fruits are easily available. This will allow you to plan a menu that you fancy, without having to search or arrange for the ingredients at extra cost.

Disadvantages

  • Allergy season is on: With most flowers in bloom, this is the time when allergies are at their worst. Guests with allergies may prefer to stay away from your wedding, especially if it is an outdoor affair, for health reasons.
  • Prices are highest: Since most couples prefer to be married in spring, this is the time when you will be spending most on wedding expenses. Venues will be priced higher during this peak season, so you can either shell out more for your dream venue or settle for a weekday wedding to get a better price.
  • Higher competition for vendors: Just as the prices go up, so does the demand for quality wedding services. Since most vendors can cater to only limited number of weddings at a time, your will have to book your wedding services early to ensure you get the ones you prefer.
  • More holidays this time of the year: Easter and school graduation happens in spring. So, if your guests have holiday plans or other events to attend at the same time, they may be unable to make it to your wedding. Nevertheless, you can always plan your wedding, adjusting for dates that do not clash with these holidays.

Summer

summer

“I almost wish we were butterflies and liv’d but three summer days – three such days with you I could fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain.”

John Keats wrote these mesmerizing lines for his beloved Fanny Brawne, and it conveys romance, excitement and joy; all that is Summer!

 

After spring, summer is the next most popular wedding season. Although the weather is usually warmer than in spring, in some parts of the world, this is better as it makes the climate very pleasant. Summer is also the best time to plan a destination wedding. The days become longer and you have plenty of time to party. This makes it perfect for an exciting, fun occasion. Let us look at the pros and cons of this season, for your wedding.

Advantages

  • Flowers still in season: Come summer, and you still have plenty of flowers to choose from. So, you needn’t compromise on having a spectacular bouquet or plenty of floral elements in your décor.
  • You can have a long wedding day: The best thing about summer is that with extended daylight hours, you have plenty of time to party. You could even plan the ceremony later in the day than would be necessary in any other season, if needed.
  • It is holiday season: Summer is the season when schools close for holidays, people take time off work and enjoy a break. So, it is usually convenient, especially for those who have to travel from far for your wedding.
  • Everything is saturated with color: Just as the sun shines brightest, everything in summer looks vibrant and colorful. This is the perfect ambiance for a wedding where you want lots of natural color.
  • Outdoor weddings are still possible: Unless the place you stay is unbearably hot, it is possible to have the outdoor wedding you always wanted.
  • Perfect time for a beach wedding or destination wedding: If you always wanted to get married in an exotic location like a beach in the Bahamas, summer is when you should plan it, to enjoy the best experience.

Disadvantages:

  • Your wedding may clash with your guests’ holiday plans: Like two sides to a coin, having your wedding during the holidays will be convenient for many. However, there may also be others who have planned a vacation at this time, and it may not be possible to reschedule their plans to accommodate your wedding.
  • Chances for rain: Summer showers are nature’s way of surprising everyone, including to-be-married couples. So, if you have an outdoor wedding, you cannot rule out the possibility of rain. Having a back-up plan, like an alternate venue in case of rain, can turn out to be expensive, but necessary.
  • Extra precautions to stay and keep things fresh: When the temperatures soar, flowers wilt quickly and people tend to look tired sooner. From choosing hardy flowers and wearing water-proof makeup, you will have to take more precautions when you get married in summer.
  • The competition for venues and vendors continues: Just like spring, summer is also popular wedding season. So, the competition for quality vendors and great venues continues. The prices are also quite high this time of year, for the same reason.

Autumn

autumn

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower”—Albert Camus

When the leaves turn color, and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful with orange, brown and red tones everywhere, when the breeze begins to blow and beckon snow, Autumn is here!

The backdrop of autumn is spectacular, and romantic, making it a great time to get married. Nowadays, autumn weddings are very popular. Temperatures dip, but it is still comfortable. So, weddings in this season are convenient and pleasant.

Advantages:

  • Beautiful nature: The stunning foliage that is fall’s own feature, punctuates the air with romance. This backdrop is unique, perhaps, even more than spring. The refined sophistication of nature during this season makes it a wonderful time for an elegant, classic wedding.
  • Pleasant weather: The weather is comfortable and pleasant during the first half of autumn, making it easy for people to travel or even attend an outdoor wedding if that is what you have planned.
  • A variety of menu options: Fall is associated with pumpkins, squashes, spices like cinnamon, chocolate, apples and berries. These are all treats for the taste buds, and comforting when served at meals. So, hearty meals at your wedding couldn’t get better, than in this season.
  • Interesting décor options: With the scenery so beautiful, it would be a shame to not incorporate the signature elements of fall into your wedding day. Turn to nature itself, and you have plenty of inspiration to set up magnificent centerpieces and attractive décor at your venue.

Disadvantages:

  • Unexpected frost: Autumn is often unpredictable, with some days too chilly to even step outdoors. There is also the risk of frost. So, this can be a damper for your wedding plans.
  • Not holiday season: With the holiday season approaching, people are busy at work and school this time of year. So, it may not be convenient for all guests to make it to your wedding, especially those who have to travel from out-of-town.
  • You will need an indoor venue: Although an outdoor ceremony is possible in fall, dancing into the night may be a problem as temperatures fall drastically, after sunset. So, you’ll have to either find a venue where you can have the rest of the reception indoors, or settle for an indoor venue for the whole function.

Winter

winter

“The color of springtime is in the flowers. The color of winter is in the imagination.” – Terri Guillemets

There was a time when winter weddings were rare. It is not so much now! The cold season is perhaps the most romantic, as this is the time everyone yearns to cozy up and feel warm and loved. Isn’t that just perfect for a wedding?

Advantages

  • Have a memorable wedding: With fewer couples tying the knot in the cold months, it is the best time to plan a memorable wedding that everyone will remember. The scenery is amazing. Not only will your vendors work at a more relaxed pace, you have better chances of getting all that you need to plan your big day, without much competition from other couples.
  • Everything is cheaper and available: Being the off-season, you will not face much trouble getting the venue you desire, or booking vendors you like the most. Also, the prices will be better, as wedding services are ready to slash their prices upon negotiation.
  • Everything will look like it ought to be: With the temperatures being so low, you needn’t worry about your bouquet wilting, or centerpieces looking tired by the end of the day.
  • Most guests can attend: If you plan your wedding around the holidays in winter, like Christmas and Thanksgiving, your guests will find it convenient to attend your wedding. They will mostly be taking time off work or school at this time of year, and so it won’t be a big deal adding your wedding into their holiday plans.

Disadvantages

  • Low temperatures: In this weather, not everyone would be excited about driving to your wedding on a weekend, when they would rather be snug at home. An outdoor wedding is out of question.
  • Shorter days: You will have fewer hours of daylight, and so your wedding would have to be run on a tight schedule, so you can make use of the sunlight while it lasts.
  • Nature’s unpredictability: Unexpected heavy snowfall, blizzards and cold waves are the different ways in which nature can wreak havoc on your carefully thought-out winter plans. It can be very difficult to change plans at short notice.
  • Guests may be on tight budgets: With buying gifts for the holidays and vacationing in summer, your guests may feel the pinch, when getting you a wedding gift or putting aside funds for travel and dressing up to attend your wedding.

So, that wraps it up! Tell us, which of these seasons would you love to get married in?

For more tips, tricks, wedding advice and more, keep visiting us here, at http://www.bestforbride.com/ —your one-stop destination for everything bridal!

Posted on by — 5 Comments

Wedding Elegance on a Dime: 10 Savvy Tips to Plan Your Big Day on a Shoestring Budget!

7 Tips to Help You Sell Your Wedding Dress [Step-by-Step Guide]

For most couples, their wedding is the single most important celebration in their life, till now. It can be confusing when you want to celebrate this big day in the best possible way, but are worried about how much this will cost you. After all, it is just one day, and is it worth spending years paying for the debt that you incurred on the celebration?

Different couples have different takes on this. So, if you have the budget and want to have a big bash on this special day, so be it! For those who want a smaller celebration that is intimate and meaningful, yet easy on their pocket, here is some help.

Here are ten tips to help you plan your wedding on a small budget, so you begin your life together as man and wife without worrying about the money you busted.

1.Stretch your dollar to the most–Borrow or recycle

recycle

Trimming down the wedding guest list is a necessity for any budget wedding. So, no surprises there! When you have a smaller guest list, it is possible to recycle things, make use of what is available, or borrow things for the occasion. If you have an eye for details and a knack for mixing and matching, there will be no trouble executing your wedding details in the most impressive manner without it costing you a dime. Trays, platters and plates are wedding essentials, and if you have a close-knit group of family and friends who can lend you things from their homes, you can create an impressive buffet arrangement with what you find.

Recycle everything from your wedding dress to the centerpieces and décor, and your wallet will remain plump. Since you will anyway be setting up home after the wedding, it is a good idea to buy things for the wedding décor, that you can re-use in your new home. Sarah, the hardworking bride, tells us how she managed to pull off her stylish wedding for less than $6000 by using such options. Her wise planning included trays from Target for her dessert table, that she could take home with her and use again. Read more about her brilliant wedding here.

2.Eliminate non-essential vendor services

dance

There is no hard and fast rule on what you should have at your wedding. This is all a matter of priority. So, splurge on the essentials that you simply must have, and eliminate or step down on those that you can do without. You can always substitute certain vendor services with affordable options that will work. For example, you can save a chunk of your budget by eliminating the band and DJ from your celebration. Instead, compile a playlist and play the songs using a good stereo system. You can do your floral décor with what is inexpensive and easily available, and eliminate the services of a florist. Or, forego the makeup and hair artist’s services for the wedding day, by doing it yourself. Just make sure that you know what your priorities are, and don’t compromise on them. The rest is up to you to take or leave, as your budget permits.

3.Find a cheaper dessert option instead of the wedding cake

dessert bar

Wedding cakes are more about the look, than the flavor or taste. Most guests remember how the wedding cake impressed them, but won’t always recollect the taste it had. Some may even have skipped dessert altogether after the heavy meal they enjoyed. However, cakes are expensive, and so you should think of whether you really want it. There is a world of desserts waiting to be discovered, and these are even more enticing than a slice of wedding cake. So, step away from cake and turn to alternate options for a wallet-friendly, practical and delicious choice that is bound to impress. This article on the wedding blog of Apartment therapy provides some unusual options that will have you saying, “Why didn’t I think of it?” You can also refer to this previous post for more ideas on what to serve instead of cake, at your wedding. Choose a truly unique dessert and one that you love, so your wedding has a sweet ending that is both delicious, personal and delightfully inexpensive.

4.Serve family-style dishes

platter

A welcome alternative to the plated meal and wedding buffet, serve family style dishes at your wedding. Not only does this bring down the cost considerably, these are hearty meals that everyone will naturally enjoy. When you choose a family style meal, you will need less service staff, which is again a budget winner. This article on the Huff Post tells us that family style wedding dinners are better than buffets and plated dinners, since they are the middle ground between the two. It is more elegant than a buffet and less formal than a plated meal. By serving items on large platters that can be passed around, you can also eliminate elaborate table décor, not to mention the casual and informal vibe that this activity can create. Don’t skimp on the quantity of food available, just choose dishes that are interesting and filling so your guests aren’t left hungry. This idea is also perfect for wedding parties that include children, as you needn’t plan a special menu for the younger taste buds in this case.

5.Keep to local products for the bar

wine-426466_640

Instead of having the standard open bar, give your wedding a unique twist by serving up local fare that you can buy from nearby vineyards or breweries for a fraction of the cost. Not only will your guests have plenty of new and unusual options, but you will also be thankful for how cheap it will be. Also, switch out the champagne for the toasts. Guests can toast with whatever they are drinking. After all, the sentiment counts, not the details of how it is done. If necessary, add some non-alcoholic drinks as refreshers and serve them at the beginning of the reception. This will not only help your guests feel refreshed at the beginning of the function, it will also reduce their capacity to drown in alcohol later. If you should splurge on anything, it should improve the appearance of the drinks served at your bar. Inexpensive garnishes and colourful mixers are all it takes to dress up drinks and make them look festive and more expensive than they actually cost you.

6. Forego the extras

bags-535240_640

All the little things add up quickly, and you can stay ahead of the game if you stick with the essentials only. So, forego elaborate decorations and trimmings for your wedding favor wrap-ups, menu styling and floral décor. Consider whether you really need things like a dessert table, coffee bar, photo booth or individual place cards. Rather than aiming for perfection, you can work with a tight budget if you look at the bigger picture and execute it with simplicity. So, the fewer textures in décor, the lower it will cost you. Similarly, go with simple menu choices that are full of flavour and compensate for not looking too great. Your favours do not need satin bows that will mostly end up in the trash, nor do you have to spend a fortune on signboards when your guests can find their way at the venue, without them.

7. Go with an artificial bouquet that you can DIY in advance

brooch-bouquet-681536_640

Flowers are an expensive factor at weddings. Minimize the cost by choosing alternative options for your décor, or keeping floral arrangements to a minimum. The bridal bouquet is one essential, though. Despite this, there is no condition for your bouquet to be made with real flowers. You can add your own DIY details to this accessory of your wedding dress ensemble, by making your own bridal bouquet with alternatives like cloth or paper. Unlike other elaborate DIY projects that consume time and effort, your bouquet is a simple and relatively easier option to handle. With a little crafting knowledge, this is the perfect way to have an attractive bouquet, sans the cost. Check out some great tutorials on creating amazing bouquets, at this link here and here. The best thing about choosing to DIY your bouquet is that you will have a keepsake from your wedding that you will forever be proud of making.

8.Rent what you can

wedding-dress-850606_640

With wedding dresses, wedding accessories, décor and more available to rent, you can find plenty of economically viable choices for your wedding day. Renting is a practical and sensible option unless you are particular about owning what you wear or use on your wedding day. After all, most of these things won’t find a second use. So, why waste so much money by buying all of it, when you can get what you want for much cheaper? Bridal shops like Best for Bride allow brides to rent their wedding dresses for a fraction of the original cost to look great on their wedding day without the hefty price tag. If not the dress, you should definitely consider the accessories. Imagine wearing a grand tiara and looking like a princess on your wedding day, even when you don’t have to buy it. By renting part or most of your wedding ensemble, you can look fantastic on a tight budget, and isn’t that how you should be on your wedding day?

9.Reduce the number of wedding party members

wedding party

A big wedding party translates into extra expenses not only for the members in it, but also for the bride and groom. You will have to set aside a part of the budget for buying gifts, bouquets and many more things for the members in your wedding party. This can quickly add up. Think of whether you really need so many people beside you at the time you say “I do.” Wouldn’t it work just as well if they were seated with the rest of the guests and took home wedding favors that were much cheaper? Plus, by keeping your wedding party to the bare minimum, probably just your maid of honor and two bridesmaids, you do not have to worry about ruffling feathers when you do not ask someone to be on the list, or making anyone who secretly isn’t keen on it feel uncomfortable by inviting them.

10. Weigh your options

limo

Even when it concerns things that you simply must have, weigh your various options and find the one that is practical yet costs less. For example, if you must hire a limo for you entrance and exit, go with a black one that will cost much lesser than a white or silver limo. Similarly, think of monochromatic bouquet options and simple bouquet arrangements instead of complicated flower arrangements that will cost more. In case of table décor, choose basic, but classic materials to do the job, instead of fancy table décor that will cost more but perform the same function. We suggest you prioritize value over look, and you will find choices that are appealing but inexpensive.

Making smart moves when planning your wedding will help you save up more for the more important thing—the rest of the life you will share together. And memories don’t depend on the tiny details, it is always the big picture that matters. So, tell us your budget ideas that helped you get the most value for money at your wedding.

To find great offers, deals and discounts on wedding dresses, accessories and décor, check out our special offers page at Best for Bride. Our lowest price guarantee also ensures you find a fabulous wedding dress at the best price possible when you shop with us. Alternately, consider our rental dress and accessory services if you want a cost-effective solution to your needs. For all this and more, check out our website at Best for Bride by visiting this link here.

Posted on by — 6 Comments

Wedding Dress Shopping Etiquette [2025]: 14 Things You Need to Know Before Your Appointment

Wedding Dress Shopping Etiquette

Wedding dress shopping is an exhilarating experience for a bride. But, as her bridal gown is one of the most expensive dresses she will wear in her life, this can also make her nervous. Fortunately, you will have your entourage and bridal consultants to help you make your dress decision. And, as with everything wedding-related, there are specific etiquette rules that you should stick to when shopping for your wedding dress too. Let us take a look at what they are.

Continue reading Wedding Dress Shopping Etiquette [2025]: 14 Things You Need to Know Before Your Appointment
Posted on by — 9 Comments

10 main things to consider when choosing your bridesmaids dresses

There are two things that determine whether your bridesmaids dress selection is a success; how happy your bridesmaids are with your choice, and whether you are satisfied with your decision.

Being successful in your search is easier said than done. There are several factors to consider and work with when choosing your bridesmaids dresses. From budget constraints to matching body shapes and personal preferences to making the choice from thousands of options, you are in for a long ride.

Do you already think your head is spinning? Don’t worry, because we have the solution. Follow this list of ten top things to consider when you decide to go shopping for your bridesmaids dresses, and you will have your bases covered.

1.Budget

Your girls know that a new dress is on the cards when they sign up to be your bridesmaid. But, don’t make them cringe and cry by choosing an expensive dress that is way over their budget, and will most likely never be used again. Bridesmaids dress collections are rich and diverse. So, you have plenty of choices to match every budget and still get the look you envisioned. All you have to do is start your search early and search for the best deals. This way, you can find the perfect dress that doesn’t put a strain on your bridesmaid’s pockets and still have a picture-perfect bridal party.

Unsure of how to find the best deals that are budget-friendly? We suggest you start with the clearance and discount section on the website. This is where you can find the latest and most enticing offers. Also consider placing a bulk order, as many dress shops offer attractive discounts when you do so, and your bridesmaids can save some extra cash this way.

2.Body shape

Mori Lee

Different women have different body structures, heights, and shapes. So, choosing a single silhouette for all of them may not be the best idea. There are universally flattering silhouettes if you must have matching outfits for all of them. The modified A-line dress, that drapes close to the body all the way from the bust to the hips, and then extends into the shape of an “A,” is one such silhouette. The empire style dress with a raised waistline also looks good on most body types and is even suitable for the pregnant bridesmaid.

Nevertheless, we suggest having your girls pick dresses that enhance their best features, but on condition that all the dresses look good when they come together, and not totally disjointed. Or, choose multi-way dresses that allow your bridesmaids to drape it in different ways and find the style that looks best on them. This way, you will see more smiles than frowns, and your girls will feel comfortable and gorgeous on your day. It is a win-win situation, don’t you think?

3.Comfort

Mori Lee

You may have your heart set on a strapless bridesmaid dress or one that is really short and just perfect for your laid-back, casual wedding style. Before you make it your final decision, make sure you check with your bridesmaids. Not all women are comfortable wearing certain styles. Now, if your choice isn’t one that they’ve ever tried before or stay away from because they aren’t comfortable showing so much skin, it will be a mistake to force them into it on your wedding day. Although you shouldn’t be worried about satisfying everyone with every detail of what they wear on your wedding day, you should consider their opinions when choosing something that they are extremely uncomfortable in. It can be awkward if your bridesmaid is forever tugging on the neckline of her dress or acts oddly because she is uncomfortable in the style you choose.

If you have a junior bridesmaid, make sure you check with her parents on whether they are fine with her wearing strapless styles or a dress with a very short hemline or long slit.

4.Personalities

After Six Bridesmaids

Some women are more fashionable than others, and we know how every woman has her own perspective on what styles are great and what don’t make the list. So, while some of your bridesmaids may be super-excited about a certain style, silhouette or fabric, others may feel it isn’t even remotely their style. As a bride, you have a tough job of finding that right balance. You can either go with what you think is best, or be flexible with your options. This doesn’t mean you will have to compromise on your idea, as you will still have plenty of ways to have a wonderful looking bridal party without choosing the exact same dress. Mix up the looks, play with textures, fabrics and styles and come up with an interesting combination, that will still be cohesive with the help of few unifying elements.

One word of caution: don’t give free rein to your bridesmaids to pick their dresses. Set the guidelines that they have to stick to when choosing a dress. This could be the color, neckline, hemline or any two or more factors. The girls can then choose dresses that match their personal choices, while still meeting your conditions.

5.Colors

Jasmine

There is an enormous variety of colors available in bridesmaids dresses, and this can confuse an already flustered bride. Rather than look at all the available color choices, you should focus on just two factors: the colors that match your wedding theme and colors that will look good on most of your bridesmaids. Remember to stick to this exact order. First, think of the colors that will be best for your wedding theme. Draw inspiration from photos, magazines and online content, and narrow down your choices to a select few. Then, choose the color, or colors that will suit most, if not all, of your bridesmaids. You are done! Since most bridesmaids dress designers offer dresses in several shades, finding the color you want shouldn’t be an issue once you choose the dress. It is best to place your orders together, so all the dresses come from the same dye lot and have the same color.

However, remember that you may not always get a proper idea of what the color will be when you place your order based on the small color sample available at the boutique. Check whether the boutique carries a dress in the color you choose. When it is from the same collection, you will get a better idea of how the color will be, even if it is not the same design you chose. If they don’t, then search online for real pictures of dresses from that collection in the color you chose. Basing your choice entirely on the tiny swatch of fabric you see may give you a result that is entirely different from what you had in mind.

6.Going shopping

Jasmine

Bridesmaids dress shopping is a lot of fun, especially as you aren’t the one who has to try on dress after dress, and look for approval. As the audience, you have a more relaxed role. However, prepare for the shopping well in advance, and go with a definite idea of what you want. If possible, we suggest you go out by yourself the first time and take a look at your options and shortlist the ones to choose from. This will save you the trouble of walking in with all your bridesmaids and finding yourself buried in choices, opinions and preferences.

We think it is best if you take along no more than four bridesmaids for one appointment. It can get too chaotic otherwise. If you have plenty of time before your wedding, try to plan your shopping for the off-peak season time, so your appointment isn’t rushed.

7.Timing your appointment

Tutto Bene

As with everything wedding-related, start your bridesmaids dress shopping early to get everything done on time. Selecting the dress design is only half the work. You will then have to place the order and wait for the dresses to arrive. Then there will be alterations, to get the dresses fitted and just right for your wedding day. So, it is best to book your boutique appointment early, and with sufficient time to get all the remaining things completed. This will help you avoid rush fees or disappointment if the dress you choose will not be available within your deadline. Avoid shopping on the weekends, as this is when the boutique will be most rushed. Also, you will have to round up your bridesmaids for their appointment, and it is best to save time by taking at least a few of them in one go. You will have hundreds of other things to attend to as well. So, consider delegating the responsibility of getting the girls to their alteration sessions to your Maid of honor, after the decisions have been made and orders placed.

8.Expect the unexpected

Dessy Bridesmaids

If you have a long engagement, it is wise to not place your bridesmaids dress orders too early. Since your bridesmaids are obviously not going to put their personal lives on hold till your wedding is over, don’t be surprised if one of them announces that she is expecting, or even has a baby during the long wait. When you order the dress closer to your wedding, you have more flexibility to accommodate such changes. Your bridesmaid will also appreciate wearing a dress that is more comfortable for her condition. Simple dresses that do not require too many alterations to fit well, and those that are available in a range of sizes are your best bet. Also, remember that women change sizes all the time. They may gain or lose pounds from the time the dresses were ordered, to when it is actually time to wear it. So, keep an open mind and leave enough time for last minute alterations, so there are fewer hassles as the day draws closer.

9.Practicality

Dessy Bridesmaids

Expect your bridesmaids to be very busy on your wedding day; getting dressed on time, attending to guests, helping you with your needs and more. So, the dress you choose should allow them to move around comfortably and it should also withstand strain without becoming wrinkled and dull. Another factor to consider is the weather at the time of your wedding. A dress that is perfect for an outdoor summer wedding may be a disastrous choice for a winter wedding. So, keep all these things in mind when making your choice. Consider your venue, weather at the time, and the duties that the bridesmaids will have to busy themselves with on the day, and then decide the silhouette and fabric that will be appropriate.

10.Cohesion

Alfred Sung bridesmaids

We talked about mixing and matching dresses, so you get a perfect balance that matches your bridesmaid’s personal preferences as well as the wedding theme. This is a factor that shouldn’t be overlooked. Random dresses that you expect to go together, may entirely spoil the visual impact of your wedding scenery. Your bridesmaids should look great together, so your photos are picturesque and all your effort in planning your wedding theme isn’t wasted. Mix and match dresses, but do so sensibly. Don’t forget to decide upon the unifying factors in advance, and make sure they are ones that will bring the overall look together. Additionally, the bridesmaids dresses should also complement your wedding dress. So, if your dress has abundant lace details, it may be a good idea to go with classic designs and lace as the fabric for your bridesmaids. It needn’t be the fabric either. You can tie your look to your bridal party’s by finding one similar fabric. This may be the neckline, sleeve length or embellishment style.

We would love to hear what factors were most important to you, when you chose your bridesmaids dresses. Do let us know in the comments section.

Best for Bride offers bridesmaids dress collections from leading designers in sizes ranging from 0-34. You can find every silhouette, every pattern, every fabric and design to make your dreams a reality. To make your pick today, come visit our online gallery and find out which is your favorite.