From Selection to Delivery: When to Order Bridesmaids Dresses? 

Ordering bridesmaid dresses involves careful planning and consideration to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. One of the crucial aspects to keep in mind is the timing of the order placement. It is essential to allow sufficient time for the dresses to be chosen and delivered and any necessary alterations. After the wedding date, theme, and color palette are determined, brides and bridesmaids can streamline the dress selection process.

Part 1. Factors that can impact the time

1. One factor that can impact the timing is ordering fabric swatches. Before finalizing the dress selection, brides and bridesmaids may order fabric swatches to ensure the desired color and texture. This additional step can add some time to the overall process, especially if the swatches need to be shipped and evaluated before making a decision.
2. The processing time of the retailer or designer is another essential factor. Each vendor may have their own turnaround time for processing orders. To determine if it aligns with the desired timeline, it’s crucial to inquire about their estimated processing time. Usually, the processing time can be several weeks. Some retailers or designers may offer rush options for an additional fee if there’s a need for faster delivery.
3. Availability of sizes and styles is also a factor to consider. If specific sizes or styles are in high demand or limited in stock, it may take longer to secure the desired dresses. Bridesmaids’ varying body types and preferences may necessitate accommodating different sizes and styles, which can impact the overall time required for ordering.
4. Potential delays or the need for alterations can affect the timeline. It’s important to anticipate any possible alterations that might be required to ensure the perfect fit for each bridesmaid. This includes factoring in additional time for alterations, especially if a professional tailor must do them.

Part 2. Ideal Timeline for Ordering

Source: bellabridesmaids.com

1. Early planning: Ordering 6 to 8 months in advance. You can provide yourself with a safety net and have ample time to address potential accidents or delays during the process. If you have specific color requirements, it’s advisable to order fabric swatches first, which can take around 1-2 weeks. Taking this into consideration will help you plan your timeline effectively.
2. Standard timeline: Ordering 4 to 6 months in advance. This timeframe still allows sufficient room to cover any delays in shipping, returns, alterations, or other unexpected issues that may arise.
3. Urgent options: Ordering 2 to 3 months in advance. If you missed the early time, 2-3 months before the wedding is not too late; it still allows enough time for necessary alterations. However, taking accurate measurements and ensuring the color choice is crucial, as the limited timeframe may not allow returns or exchanges.
4. Last-minute: 1 month before the wedding. Ensure you have your accurate measurements ready, confirm the color choice, and be prepared to receive the dress only a few days before the wedding date. Coordinating closely with all parties involved is essential to ensure smooth and timely delivery. Some online sellers can do rush orders, which offers only $20 for rush orders and can shorten the processing time to 10-13 days. Now, let’s talk about wedding invitation ideas. From traditional elegance to creative and unique designs, your wedding invitations should reflect your personal style and set the tone for your big day.

Part 3. Ordering Process and Considerations

Source: bestforbride.com

1. Research dress retailers and designers. Look for reputable and reliable sources that offer a wide selection of dresses within your desired price range. Read reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gain insights into the quality, customer service, and overall experience with the retailer or designer. Comparing options will help you make an informed decision and find the best match for your budget and style preferences.
2. Requesting fabric and color swatches. Swatches allow you to see and feel the fabric and accurately assess the color in different lighting conditions. This step is crucial, especially if color coordination is a priority. By reviewing the swatches, you can make an informed decision and avoid any potential surprises or discrepancies when the dresses arrive.
3. Placing the order and reviewing payment and delivery details. Review the pricing structure, including additional costs such as taxes, shipping fees, or customization charges. Ensure you understand the payment options and applicable return or exchange policies. Carefully review the estimated delivery time to ensure the dresses arrive in time for fittings and alterations, as well as the wedding day itself.

Part 4. Managing Unexpected Situations

Source: hitched.co.uk

1. Dealing with out-of-stock or discontinued dresses. Sometimes, the bridesmaids’ dress you selected may become out of stock or discontinued when you’re ready to place the order. To avoid this, ask the seller right after you have made your dress decision if the dress is still available till the time you are ready to place your order. If this happens, don’t panic. Reach out to the retailer or designer and inquire about alternative options or similar styles currently available. They can suggest comparable dresses that align with your desired look and budget.
2. Addressing changes in bridesmaid lineup or body sizes. Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances may arise, such as changes in the bridesmaid lineup or variations in body sizes. If a new bridesmaid joins the party or existing bridesmaids experience size fluctuations, it’s essential to address these changes promptly. Contact the dress retailer or designer to inquire about their policies regarding alterations or exchanges. They may offer options for adjusting the sizes or selecting new dresses to accommodate the changes.
3. Allowing time for final fittings and alterations before the wedding. Schedule fittings well in advance to allow for any adjustments or modifications that may be required. Collaborate with a skilled tailor or seamstress experienced in bridesmaid dress alterations to ensure the best fit.

Ordering bridesmaid dresses on time ensures a smooth and stress-free wedding planning process. You can avoid unnecessary rush and complications by planning ahead and allowing ample time for dress selection, ordering, and potential alterations. Timely ordering also allows you to explore different options and make any necessary adjustments along the way.

If you have to make a last-minute order, here are some recommended dresses that are all-flattering and meet your time needs. These dresses from eDresstore.com can be delivered within 3 weeks of placing your order. While it’s ideal to order bridesmaid dresses well in advance, we understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, requiring a last-minute order. If you find yourself in such a situation, don’t panic. We have some recommended dresses that are flattering and meet your time constraints. Check out eDresstore.com, where you can find a selection of beautiful dresses that can be delivered within three weeks after placing your order. These dresses ensure you don’t have to compromise on style and quality, even with a tight timeline.