You’ve probably got it all prepared. How you’re gonna ask your faves to stand beside you on your big day. Which colors they’ll look AMAZING in. Maybe you’ve even considered how fun shopping with them will be! Whether you’re having bridesmaids, groomsmen, bridesmen, or groomswomen, you want your wedding party to look and feel amazing on your big day! Here are just a few tips on how to make that possible.

1. Do your research!

Thankfully we live in a day and age where you have so many options. If you’re more into brick-and-mortar stores, try to plan a day to go shopping with most (if not all) of your wedding party! If everyone is scattered across the globe, online shopping may be your best bet. Plus, many sites offer at-home try-on options too!

2. Shop for yourself first

Before making firm decisions on what your wedding party will wear, lock down your own attire first! (Here are helpful tips for dresses or tuxes!) Sometimes a bride or groom may want to match their wedding party, so be sure to say yes to the dress (or suit) beforehand. Ideas can even change after making that decision!

3. Think about timelines

Take ordering, shipping, and alterations into consideration. Whether you shop in-store or online, it can take weeks or months for certain shops to get their orders in, and alterations can also take a few weeks! Give everyone enough wiggle room so that no one’s stressing out about their outfit not being ready in time.

Ashley Benham Photography — Camille Leigh Photography

4. Keep in mind the color palette

Will your wedding party be across the board in the same exact style and color, or are you wanting to mix and match with a certain color scheme? No matter what you choose, make sure it coordinates and looks good together! Not just with each other, but with your wedding colors as a whole.

5. The when and where

Getting married indoors in the winter? Maybe an outdoor Spring wedding? Make sure your loved ones are comfortable! Take into consideration fabric style, as well as what will look best with your venue style! (Also, Spring and Summer in the South may call for lighter fabrics and tea-length style dresses)

6. Let’s talk cost

Will you be footing the bill for your friends, or will they be paying for their own outfits? Either way, it’s always smart to shop savvy! Many places have seasonal sales, whether that’s in-store or online. There are also sites where they can rent the dress! You don’t wanna be the reason your friends go totally broke, and gifting them the wedding jewelry can be a nice touch.

7. Consider the needs of your wedding party

Can your cousin not wear a certain type of fabric? Would a certain color clash with your friend’s bright hairstyle? Do you have a combo of guys and gals in your wedding party? Always be considerate of what would make your favorite people most comfortable, whether that’s in style, price, or just in general! Maybe someone is a bit conservative and feels out of place wearing a short, strapless dress! And that’s totally fine. Be flexible, because you’re inviting them to stand beside you on your big day for a reason! (And it’s likely because you love ‘em.)