The girls at bridesmaid design house Ava Madison sent over some great tips to help brides choose their bridesmaid gowns.

– It’s important to have chosen your own gown and the venue prior to sourcing dresses for your maids as this will often guide you when making choices pertaining to style and colour

– As many brides are time poor, arrange to have all of your bridesmaids present when you have narrowed down your search for bridesmaid dresses

– Bring undergarments that are specific to the day when getting measured as this may alter the final measurements

– Don’t leave shoes too late! Winter stock hits the stores in February. If you are delayed in looking for shoes head out to the factory outlets to get summer stock

– Request the Ava Madison shoe database to assist you with your search for evening shoes

– There are no clear rules on what bridesmaids should and should not wear. You can opt for different styles in the same colour or vice versa. Make that decision on the day when you have seen a number of different styles on the girls. Of late, many Ava Madison brides are opting to mix and match styles or colours.

– Don’t leave it too late or you may miss out on getting the right dresses for the day

– Sometimes too many choices can be confusing, choose a style/s first and then select colour

– Bring in a picture of your dress and a swatch of fabric if possible

– Enjoy the experience as the journey to the most perfect day is sometimes just as important

– Ensure you are well informed for, e.g satin describes the finish on a fabric and does not mean you are purchasing a silk garment. Different suppliers use different fabrics and do not be afraid to ask if it’s silk satin that you are purchasing.

Photo by Elise Gow Photography.