Party Dress Express

Plus Size Prom Dresses at Party Dress Express

2011-01-18T21:44:00.000-05:00

At Party Dress Express we understand that not every girl looks like a 'Top Model'! We embrace the plus size girl. We celebrate curves by having a wide selection of plus size prom dresses in stock ranging from sizes 14W - 32W from top designers such as Night Moves, Cassandra Stone and Faviana. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant blue plus size prom dress of a pastel print prom dress, we have your dream plus size prom dress. The Most important thing you should remember when shopping for your plus size prom dress, is your shape and what will flatter your body.

A-Line plus size prom dress ~ the perfect style for a more curvy figure, it skims over your body in all the right places.

V-Neckline plus size prom dress ~ flattering for the busty girl, as it adds a beautiful contrasting line to the chest.

Empire waist prom dresses~ similar to the A-Line, but perfect for the full figured girl as it hides any flaws and creates a smooth silhouette for the plus size figure.

One thing you want to remember is that a full ball gowns may not be a favorite for every girl but whatever your final choice turns out to be make sure you are 100% comfortable in your designer prom dress because you are the one who will be in it all night. Always make sure you can both sit and walk in your dress before you purchase it. The most beautiful prom dress won't look so beautiful if you cannot move in it. Remember a curvaceous body is something to celebrate not hide!

Be a Show-Stopper at Prom with Sherri Hill Prom Dresses

2011-01-12T14:18:00.000-05:00

Be a Show-Stopper at Prom with Sherri Hill Prom Dresses

Sherri Hill prom dresses are designed for the girl looking to achieve a sexy and sophisticated look on her prom night. The new 2011 prom collection has a combination of jaw-dropping short dresses, sparkle, sequins and vibrant colors. Party Dress Express is a proud retailer of Sherri Hill prom gowns.

Sherri Hill style 1403 is a unique short prom dress. It has a deep sweetheart neckline. The entire bodice has small sparkling rectangular stones that make this dress a showstopper. The short skirt is two-toned tulle, in the combination of silver and nude.

Sherri Hill style 6001 is a fun and flirty mermaid prom dress. It has a unique neckline that looks like a twist on the popular crumb-catcher top. The pleat-work slightly flares out to give the dress attitude. An embellished jewel detail adds just enough sparkle to this gorgeous dress. The mermaid style is for the prom girl who isn’t afraid to show off those curves! The dress comes in fuchsia, red, purple and green.

Sherri Hill style 2270 is a fully sequined prom gown. It has a moderate sweetheart neckline that looks great on all body types! This silhouette is meant to be form fitting on the bodice and snug on the hips. It’s a glamorous gown perfect for the prom queen of the night! A sexy slit rises just above the knee, reaching up to mid thigh. This dress is available in silver, black, gold, purple, red and turquoise.

What's a Mother to Wear!

2010-12-10T16:09:00.003-05:00

This dress is a clear winner for the Mother of the Bride or the Mother of the Groom.This Montage style #210961 is a two-toned chiffon dress with one-shoulder floral accented strap, curved neckline, crisscross directionally pleated Empire bust line, mock wrapped skirt with cascading front ruffle. This Montage dress is available in sizes from 2 to 20. This style comes with a shawl although not shown in the picture. Visit our store to try on our extensive collection of dresses not only for the Mother of the Bride and Groom but also for the Bride to be and her entire bridal party. If a wedding is not in your immediate future still visit our store for a large selection of Party Dresses and Special Occasion dresses for every event!

2010-11-19T18:51:00.000-05:00

The Latest Bridesmaids Trends

Styles – One shoulder dresses are very in right now. Especially when accented with a cluster of flowers, feathers, or ruffles. Speaking of ruffles, whether on the side or cascading down the middle of the dress, you will see them in 2011! The Grecian look is also a big trend, especially for outdoor and summer weddings. These dresses are usually chiffon fabric, empire waist and very airy and flowy. This style is also known as a baby doll. It’s comfortable and perfect for pregnant bridesmaids. We can’t forget about pockets! Your girls will be that much more excited if there dress has pockets. Pockets are common in baby doll style dresses. We will see tons of pockets in 2011, not just for the maids but for the bride as well!

Colors – Gray is very in at the moment. You can make it look very preppy by adding yellow flowers, and accessories. Another trend is green and navy. Green dresses paired with navy shoes is such a fun and casual look. If you really want to be unique your bridesmaids can each wear a different color. However, it is important to stick with a theme: for example, all pastels or all different shades of a color. This way the wedding party still looks uniform and neat.

Different Styles - Another trend is to choose a manufacturer that offers different styles in the same fabric and color and letting each bridesmaid chose the style they like best and look best in. Your girls will be so excited to pick out the style they like best. It allows them to choose a dress they will possibly wear again. Your bridsmaids will love you for it!

2010-10-27T09:33:00.000-04:00

Advice for All Mother of the Bride Customers

I have owned Party Dress Express for 15 years. Throughout the years I felt I stocked my store with lovely dresses for you to wear to your daughter’s wedding. I also always put my most caring and helpful sales associate to help you pick out your dress. To be honest, occasionally when I came up with an overly worried, stressed, fussy mother of the bride I always felt like, what is the big deal it is just one day. Oh how I have eaten my words!!!

Throughout my life I have been able to conquer all of life situations with a clear mind and positive attitude to get the job done. I am talking about some difficult life situations: family illnesses, business crisis, financial concerns that I always handled with confidence and dignity. So why when the first of my two daughters said she was getting married this October did this new crazy, teary-eyed indecisive woman appear.

Now that the day has passed (and it was a beautiful day and wedding) I have time to reflect. First no matter how composed you are in life situations this is your daughter- and for me as with most mothers she has been my whole world since the day she was born. Now you are facing the loss of her to another person and in my case I was also losing her to another person, family and state. Why wouldn’t that make a grown women cry?

At the same time you are trying to cope with these emotional feelings. There are lots of decisions to be made. You have been making decisions for her and with her all her life but now suddenly everything is different. Remember the terrible two’s? Well suddenly your there again, everything is a confrontation And if that’s not the case than at least you have realized there is another person(s) opinion which just may weigh stronger than yours- which is definitely a different experience.

Now it is DRESS time- the bride has picked hers and she is beautiful as all brides are. But wait you’re her mother, just 20 something years ago you were this girl and as much as it is her day you can’t get over the fact that you’re the second person on display so the panic and worry set it. And so it begins the endless try-on of dresses, picking the right style, color, length and fit so that you can look your best. And no matter how great everyone is saying you look that mirror is saying something different to you.

I did it all, I tried on, and I fussed, pulled, switched and drove myself crazy and remember I have a store filled with dresses at my disposal everyday. And just like other mothers in my store, I felt like the perfect one was still missing from stock. I will never question another mother in my store again. So did I find the perfect dress? Well everyone said I looked lovely but I did not follow my own advice and go for comfort. I ended up in an uncomfortable strapless bra all for the sake of beauty. Now that I understand the trauma of a mother of the bride I actually may look for an employee with a psychology degree to better serve our customers. In the meantime if you are in need of some old fashion consoling just ask for me- I have been there. I know if I tell you not to worry it will not work but I will say breath and enjoy the moment as much as possible. Remember when you brought your daughter into the world how quickly you forgot the pain and focused on the joy, well once you see her in her wedding dress on her wedding day it is just as amazing!

Party Dress Express

2010-10-07T19:31:00.003-04:00

Bridesmaid Duties

If you've been asked to be a bridesmaid at a friend's wedding, there's a lot to keep in mind and a lot to consider. It is a great honor to be chosen to be a bridesmaid, but there's a lot of responsibility, too! One responsibility that is carefully delineated is that you are meant to be a support for the bride as she approaches her big day. Below are a few tips you may want to keep in mind while helping out.

1.Pitch in!
The bride has tons to do as her wedding comes up, everything from catering to dress fittings to flowers. Volunteer whatever time you can in order to make her life a little bit easier. There's a lot you can do and even little things can add up. Remember not to get too stressed for time yourself, being reliable about a few things is much better than trying to be Superwomen about a bunch of things and then forgetting about them.

2.Be attentive!
It's the bride's big day, but it's also going to be a nerve-wracking one. Keep in mind that she should be happy, not be stressed or frustrated with it. Do your best to help keep her in a good mood and don't forget the essentials. Too many brides forget about things like eating and sleeping. Make sure she gets something to eat and drink a few hours before the ceremony. You don't want the wedding to come to a halt when the bride collapses from dehydration.

3.Be honest!
It can be a fine line between letting the bride do what she wants and stopping her from making a bad decision. If she's making a choice you think she is making due to too much stress, ask her if that is what she really wants. Remember that the important thing is that she be happy, and if you go into it with the mindset of making sure she is happy, she will thank you for your help.

4.Don't forget your role!
One of your duties is to the complement the wedding party. Make sure that you take care of your dress in a timely manner. Make sure you pick up your dress or set up an alteration appointment months in advance.

5.Have fun!
Being part of the wedding party is a honor and a great chance to help your friend celebrate one of the most important days in her life. One thing that will make her happy is seeing you enjoy yourself!

Courtesy of EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yolanda_Nash

2010-07-16T19:51:00.003-04:00

We are now open at our new location!

657 Quarry Street
Fall River, Ma 02723

2010-06-17T16:24:00.011-04:00

Watch for our New Store's Grand Opening in July!

2010-06-03T12:21:00.008-04:00

Bridal Trunk Show Dates

Mon Cheri Bridal -July 23-24

Maggie Sottero- July 23-24

Mori Lee Bridal- July 30-August 1

David Tutera Bridal -August 6-8

Casablanca Bridal -August 7 & 8

Alfred Angelo Bridal- August 13-23

2010-02-09T00:48:00.013-05:00

In July 2010, Party Dress Express will be moving to a Bigger, Better, and more Beautiful location!

Tower Place

Fall River, Ma
(Right Across the Street)

Wedding Accessories: Hot New Wedding Veil Trends

Wedding Veil Trend 1: Veiled Hats

Why we love it ? They can make any wedding gown feel so sophisticated and chic. These hats just make a bigger, more original fashion statement.

How to wear it? This classy style looks best with a polished bun or a low side ponytail. Reminiscent of the 40’s and 60’s, these period pieces are very debonair. Unlike heavier pieces they'll simply sit on the top of your head.

Wedding Veil Trend 2: Crystal-Studded Headbands

Why we love it? More glam than girly, these decorative bands are an excellent addition to both an up- or down-do. They're every bit as glitzy and more modern than a traditional tiara. Plus, they're easy enough to pop in for a quick ceremony-to-reception switch sans the hairstylist.

How to wear it? An embellished band will add instant sparkle to your overall look and draw the eye upward. They're especially stunning if your dress is super-simple or you plan to wear minimal jewelry. Consider which colors will stand out best against your hair.

Wedding Veil Trend 3: Enamel-Plated Flowers

Why we love it? An intricate comb makes even the most tousled updo look polished. And these molded hairpins are perfect keepsakes. Don't Get Attached If you're planning to wear both a veil and a hair comb, remember to secure both of these pieces separately. This way, if you want to ditch either one during the reception, you don't have to completely redo your hair

How to wear it? Since the plating is matte, you can easily get away with using a larger comb without looking overly done up. Make the most of an heirloom-like hairpiece by tucking it into the top of a veil-covered bun. It's easy to wrap your hair into a bun, pop in the veil and secure it with bobby pins, then tuck in the comb.

Wedding Veil Trend 4: Feathers Anywhere

Why we love it? Feathers are fun, flirty and feminine enough to top off any bridal 'do.

How to wear it? Try adding some extra drama to an already over-the-top gown with vibrant feathers secured to a couture veil. Or you can stick a few tiny peacock clips into your updo for more subtle yet still utterly exotic flair. Cluster a few feathers next to a tousled bun or use them to highlight a hair-wrapped ponytail. Are you opting to wear your hair down? Try parting your hair to the side and then securing the loose locks with a pretty clip.

-- Heather Levine

2010-01-09T21:26:00.008-05:00

Mother of the Bride/Groom Dress: 6 Essential Shopping Tips

Whether you're the mother of the bride or mother of the groom, you'll have some special moments on the wedding day! You may have not shopped for a dress this important since your own wedding. Here are some tips to get you going.

"Think of the wedding as a production, in which you have a leading role."

1. Communication is key

Talk to the bride. Get a sense of her vision for the day.

2. Get Going

Start shopping as early as possible, but not until the bride has chosen her gown and the bridesmaids dresses.

3. Make a Match

Look at what the bride and bridal party are wearing and follow their lead as far as formality.

4. Find your Hue

Decide what color you want to wear. Start looking with several color preferences in mind. Stay away from white,cream, or ivory. The best mother of the bride and grrom dress compliment the mom's coloring and don't clash with the wedding party.

5. Compromise with the Bride

Get an idea of what styles the bride has in mind. If she wants you to wear something you are not happy with, let her know. It's her day, but you have to feel comfortable.

6. Talk to the Mother of the Groom

The mother of the bride should consult with the mother of the groom once her she's selected her dress, informing her of color and formality.

--Cindy Hobson

Courtesy of The Knot

2009-11-20T10:25:00.005-05:00

NBC 10 Grand Prize Winner Announced!

NBC 10 and A Better Sound are giving away a free wedding at The Crowne Plaza Hotel at the Crossings to Jennifer Coliflores and Eric Rosenthal.

The winning couple's wedding will air on NBC 10 on Feb. 15, 2010.

The grand prize package, valued at more than $40,000, includes the ceremony and the reception. Our turnto10.com users will be asked to decide on the specifics of the day by selecting the style of wedding bands, wedding gown, tuxedos, invitations, menu, music, schedule of events, hair and nail designs, tanning/spa packages, favors and honeymoon excursions. Voting begins Tuesday, Nov. 10.

A panel of judges selected Jennifer and Eric as the grand prize winners from four finalists.

Follow Jennifer and Eric on Facebook.

We need you to vote on the style of dress, tuxedo, invitations, hair style, wedding bands, menu, photography packages and more.

Feel free to vote as many times as you'd like.

Voting closes on Dec. 2.

Vote for Jennifer's dress now! http://www2.turnto10.com/jar/lifestyles/wedding_contest/voting

2009-10-01T15:47:00.007-04:00

Wedding Accessories: How to Pick Jewelry to Match Your Bridal Gown

If you thought finding your wedding dress was fun, you're in for a real treat -- it's time to accessorize. Just remember the first rule in wedding jewelry: Don't overdo it!

Show Your True Colors
Knowing what type of metal will work with your wedding dress's shade of white is a good way to begin choosing your wedding jewelry.

White Gown: Gold embellishments may clash with this bright white hue. Try sticking to pearl and platinum.

Diamond-white Gown: This barely off-white color works with gold and silver.

Ivory Gown: This candlelight shade is a soft, light white, and some versions even have yellow undertones. Adorn yourself with gold jewelry to highlight the creamy tint of the fabric.

All About the Decolletage
Pairing your neckline style with the proper adornment can add character to your wedding gown, or even highlight a unique feature.

Sweetheart or Strapless Bridal Gown: For something a little different, skip the necklace, and focus on some great chandelier earrings instead. If you're going for a flirty, fresh look, include two or three small fresh or silk flowers in your hair to add a soft, organic feel. Is vintage elegance more your style? Pay homage to the past with a great Art Deco-style bracelet or some roaring '20s-inspired feather barrettes.

V-neck Bridal Gown: Whether you opt for a pendant or choker, this style begs for décolletage decoration. A thin chain with a simple pendant is an elegant way to accessorize, while pearls exude classic charm. If you're going for the dare-to-be-decadent look, a crystal choker with matching earrings could be the perfect combo.

Halter or Reverse Halter Bridal Gown: Whether you wear your hair in a sleek bun or loose ponytail, dressing up your tresses is a great way to accessorize a halter gown. Headbands are a great way to add panache to your wedding updo. But if headbands aren't quite your style, try adding some sparkle to your hair with intricate crystal hairpins.

Foolproof Wedding Accessories
If deciding on your jewels is proving more difficult than finding the gown, there's one jewelry duo that's timeless: Pair diamond drop-earrings with a sophisticated necklace, such as a strand of pearls or a diamond pendant choker.

Let's Get Personal
The most important thing about picking the perfect trinkets for your wedding gown is that they are a reflection of you. If you're comfortable in all your accessories, your wedding day ensemble is guaranteed to dazzle.

-- Heather Levine

2009-08-17T16:10:00.011-04:00

Dear Customers,

Party Dress Express will be in the Wampanoag Mill for all your Special Occasion needs until Spring 2010. Watch for an announcement of our exciting new location at a future date.

Thank You!

Fall Weddings are Approaching...

Fall weddings mean vibrant bridal dress colors, savory menus, and wedding gowns with great seasonal style. From bold wedding dress shapes to feminine flourishes, the options are endless for fashionable fall brides!

Ethereal elegance-Find Your Gown

Get inspired by Greek goddess looks and try a billowy, featherweight bridal gown that will make walking down the aisle a breeze. Focus on light, airy fabrics and loose flowing shapes. Even ball gowns with full skirts will seem to float when made of breathable fabrics like taffeta and tulle.

Fashionista glam-Find Your Gown

Infusing ready-to-wear concepts into bridal dress design creates some truly spectacular styles. Perfect for a bride with a passion for fashion, these buzz-worthy wedding gowns will certainly keep all eyes on the aisle. Go for of-the-moment details like dramatic necklines, 3-D accents, and rough trims that add a very contemporary edge to even classic and demure designs.

Ultrafemme -Find Your Gown

Girlie girls will love this season's selection of super-feminine bridal dress styles. You can accentuate your curves in one of the season's popular trumpet or mermaid silhouettes, or draw attention to the decolletage with daring new necklines, then embellish the look with delicate details like lace appliques, petite bows, and pleated ruffles.

Natural beauty-Find Your Gown

If a bright white dress decorated with pearls and Swarovski crystals would be a bit too much glitz for you, choose a polished style in a muted fall hue like creamy white, light gray, or soft mushroom. These understated looks have an earthy, but very romantic, grace. Look for details like fabric flowers and colored gems to keep subdued tones from looking drab.

Unabashed whimsy -Find Your Gown

Reminiscent of a more romantic era, bustled trains and corset-style bodices are back in a big way. To keep this slightly old-fashioned look of-the-moment, consider a gown with interesting design elements like hand-painted or patterned fabric.

Sexy siren -Find Your Gown

Shorter styles -- from ankle length bubble hems to sequined minis -- give brides a chance to strut their stuff. Search for a style that suits the formality of your affair For a formal fall wedding, you'll want to keep hemlines below the calf, while more casual parties allow for a bit more creativity.

- Heather Levine

How to find the perfect bridal dress!

2009-07-05T14:23:00.008-04:00

How to decide on your wedding dress style, shape and color!

Find the bridal gown that fits and flatters you in all the right places.

On your wedding day, you will no doubt want to be wearing the most fabulous, yet affordable wedding dress that makes you the center of attention, helps you feel fabulous and ensures all your guests are green with envy… all of which makes for a big shopping task!

Before you head for the high street and frantically look through rail after rail of wedding dresses , just take time to think through what you are looking for in a bridal gown beforehand.

Follow our guide and you can calmly go shopping for your wedding dress knowing exactly what you want and will be able to get the wedding dress shop assistants to help you too.

After all, you want to look like a princess on your wedding day and whoever heard of a princess having a meltdown in a changing room?

Think about your venue

Before you even begin to think about choosing a wedding dress, you need to consider where you are getting married. Is your wedding traditional, trendy or downright relaxed (like on a beach maybe?) You need a wedding dress style that will suit the venue, (it’s no good buying an elaborate wedding dress with a full skirt, enormous train and veil if you are planning on walking barefoot to the water’s edge for your wedding ceremony for example!)
Think about the season

Take into consideration the time of year you are getting married. For example, you might want to choose a lighter fabric for a summer wedding or a long-sleeved style for a winter wedding (you want to be the center of attention because you look beautiful in your wedding gown, not because you’ve gone blue from the cold!)

Think about your figure

No matter what size or shape you are, there is a wedding dress to suit you that will fit and flatter in all the right places. All you need do before you shop is think about what dress styles usually suit you best and look for the same style in a wedding gown. For example, do you look and feel fabulous in a slinky bias-cut skirt? Do you feel comfortable in a strapless corset, or do you prefer a halterneck style for support? Use the shapes and styles you prefer as a starting point and discuss these with the wedding shop assistant.
Think about your skin tones.
Traditional wedding dresses come in all shades of white, cream and gold, so don’t think you have to opt for pure white – particularly if you are very pale. Ask the wedding shop assistant to help you choose a fabric color that helps you glow – not look like a ghost!

Note down your choices based on these considerations and you will be all set to go wedding dress shopping.

A good sales assistant should ask you all these questions about your wedding day: the time of year, consider your figure and skin tones before you even begin to get near the rails and now you’ll be all prepared with the answers that will help you find that perfect wedding dress.

Planning your Wedding *

2009-07-04T19:08:00.005-04:00

Planning your wedding is not easy. Everyone has advice. Everyone has an opinion. And that's just the people you know! If you were to read just half the books, pamphlets, web sites, etc. written in the last half-century about wedding etiquette and protocol, you'd be reading and planning until your retirement! So how do you choose whose advice to heed and what resources are most relevant?

Unfortunately, we can't help you with the first part of that question: You'll have to wage your own battles with Aunt Frances and Grandma Helen over the seating arrangements. We can, however, point you to the most helpful resources: books, magazines and web sites that tell you what you need to know, not what you need to do (a selection of resources are listed below). We restrict our discussion to what we know best - information and tips on "managing" your bridesmaids. We refrain from telling you what to do, because your creativity and imagination are what will make your wedding celebration memorable. We'll just provide a little help along the way.

As a bride-to-be, wedding chief executive and senior creative officer, you'll be faced with a barrage of questions, comments and suggestions from your bridesmaids. Your "staff" will look to you for help, direction and sometimes even dispute resolution. We hope that after reading this book, like a seasoned CEO, you'll have the background, context and knowledge to manage your bridesmaids effectively and easily. So, without further ado, The Bride's Guide to Bridesmaids.
Introduction

Although there is a tremendous amount of literature on how to be a "good" bride, there is a noticeable lack of information about bridesmaids. Even if you were a bridesmaid in another wedding, did the bride explain to you what your role was, what she expected from you, and where you could help? As a bride yourself, you will find that establishing your bridesmaids' responsibilities up front is the most effective way to be on top of everything. Perhaps your biggest questions surround the bridesmaid dress, fittings and finding the right fabric. Whatever your questions are about managing your bridesmaids, we can help you find the answers.

We open with a brief discussion of the bridesmaid tradition, and then move on to modern day rituals, expectations and tendencies. As we move from the past to the present, we'll lay out what you need to know to run the show in the days leading up to your wedding - including a detailed list of your bridesmaids' responsibilities. Finally, we step into the future, outlining the important information you'll need to organize your bridesmaids and enjoy the wonderful celebration on your wedding day.
Choosing Your Bridesmaids
A Brief History

The history of the bridesmaid varies across cultures, religions and time periods. In early Roman times, bridesmaids formed a kind of bridal infantry as they accompanied the bride to the groom's village. This "protective shield" of similarly outfitted bridesmaids was supposed to intervene if any wayward thugs or vengeful suitors tried to hurt the bride or steal her dowry.

However, the Western bridesmaid tradition seems to have originated from later Roman law, which required ten witnesses at a wedding in order to outsmart evil spirits believed to attend marriage ceremonies. The bridesmaids and ushers dressed in identical clothing to the bride and groom, so that the evil spirits wouldn't know who was getting married. Even as late as 19th century England, the belief that ill-wishers could administer curses and taint the wedding still existed. In Victorian wedding photographs, for example, it can take quite a bit of inspection to pick out the bride and groom from among the other members of the bridal party!
The Modern Day Bridesmaid

These early customs continue to have an influence today. The expression "thrice a bridesmaid, never a bride" arose from the bridesmaid's interception of, and gradual infection by (over the course of three weddings), the evil spirits trying to disrupt the ceremony! And, although the bridal party no longer functions as a troop of foot soldiers, bridesmaid dresses are still commonly chosen in harmony with the look and feel of the wedding. The bridal party continues to serve a vital role in the wedding process, not by fending off hexes and robbers, but by providing key support staff and an advisory board. Besides being an honored member of the wedding party and special guest at the reception, today's bridesmaid is also designated as the bride's special assistant. From shopping for dresses to scouting hotels for out-of-town guests to writing place cards to hosting a bridal shower, her first duty is to be helpful. The payoff is that walk down the aisle, looking absolutely beautiful in a gown that is stylish, sophisticated, colorful and absolutely wearable. In 21st century America, bridesmaids are chosen to be caring helpers, thoughtful organizers and skillful liaisons.
How Many Is Too Many?

There is one obvious answer. If the altar only fits a handful of people, you'll have to limit your number of bridesmaids! But, seriously, the first rule in determining how many bridesmaids is right for you is to coordinate the size of your wedding party with the size of the venue where your wedding is to take place. Although it may be difficult to choose five bridesmaids from among fifty of your best friends, you must if you're having an intimate wedding. And there are plenty of other great honors that you can hand out to close friends who want to participate in the wedding (e.g., they can help coordinate any other wedding-related activities, or they could write a special song or toast for the reception, etc.).

A good second rule is to consider the formality of the wedding. In general, formal weddings have a half dozen or more bridesmaids in addition to the maid of honor (it could be as many as a dozen, but that is very rare). Semiformal and casual weddings can have just one bridesmaid - the maid of honor - but typically have about three to five. And don't worry if the groom has more ushers than you have bridesmaids: Ushers can always double up in the recessional. Of course, the final decision rests with you, the bride, but remember that the larger the number, the more difficult it may be for you to manage. And remember that the bridesmaids will all have to work together on many aspects of planning, so addressing any conflicts up front will avoid problems down the line. So the more the merrier? or too many cooks spoil the broth? you'll have to decide!
"Popping The Question"

In all likelihood, your bridesmaids will be among the first people to know that you're planning to get married. That's because most brides ask their closest friends and family members in a flurry of excited phone calls! However, there are no rules prescribing the right people to choose and there is no particularly right way to ask. It's entirely up to you. In general, your bridesmaids should be your sociable and engaging friends and family members, since many of their duties (in addition to organizational ones) will involve hosting, greeting and introducing. You can also have Junior Bridesmaids, generally between eight and fourteen years of age, who wear "junior" bridesmaid dresses. Or you can have Senior Bridesmaids - like a great aunt or grandmother - who may be your closest confidant or best ally.

However, in the great majority of weddings, brides select friends and family around their own age, whom they know will be supportive and helpful in the planning process. Bridesmaids in your age group can also relate well to the groomsmen, who are generally around the same age as the groom. But before you get ready to announce your bridesmaid nominees, you should be well aware of the bridesmaids' responsibilities, so you can be sure your bridal party can handle their duties. Once you have made your decision, an easy way to "pop the question" is a bridesmaid card.

Do's, Dont's and Basic Truths to Bridesmaids ...

2009-04-13T13:54:00.021-04:00

Consider this, when choosing your Bridesmaids Dresses!

Do's, Dont's, and Basic Truths to

Consider when Choosing your Bridesmaid Dresses:

Do Try to find a style and color that is flattering to the different sizes and skin tones of your bridesmaids.

Don't jump on a trend without thinking of how your friends will look and feel.

Do Try to keep the price at something that everyone can afford. $200 is a good figure to keep in mind, but if you can do it for less, everyone will be happier.

Do Consider letting your bridesmaids wear clothing of their own choice. What you lose in uniformity will be made up for in comfort and happiness, which will be apparent in the way they carry themselves and smile.

Do Consider dress length: Formal and semiformal weddings call for long, ballerina-length, or tea-length dresses. At an informal or daytime wedding, bridesmaid dresses can be the same length as the bride's dress, short or long.

Do consider body types : Simple, elegant designs are the most flattering to all figures.

-- The Knot

Bridesmaids:How to Choose your Crew

More isn’t always merrier. The more bridesmaids you have, the greater the potential for complications. Also, you’re on a limited budget, think about who has to pay for all those bouquets.

Blood is thicker than water. If you’re close to your sister and future sister-in-law, the thought of not including them in your wedding party. It's usually worth including family just to avoid unnecessary conflict. Think of it as having more bargaining power when you’re battling with your parents over the guest list.

Try not to make assumptions. Don’t write off some friends simply because you think they don’t have enough money to afford the dress you have your eye on. If she has to decline, promise to find something else for her to do in the wedding.

A bridesmaid doesn’t have to be a woman. Despite the prevalence of feminine pronouns in this guide, if your best friend is a guy, there’s no reason why he can’t be in your wedding. Today, many couples are including members of the opposite sex to stand by them. In these cases, a man on the bride’s side is simply called an attendant or bridesman, while a woman on the groom’s side can be called a groomswoman.

No, you don’t have to return the invitation. Just because someone asked you to be in her wedding doesn’t mean that you must have her in yours.

Life will go on if you have uneven numbers of groomsmen and bridesmaids. There’s no law of symmetry when in comes to wedding parties. Don’t put yourself under the added pressure to fill positions, should they be empty.

-- Joanna Saltz

2009-01-09T18:04:00.017-05:00

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*We are open 7 days a week

*No appointments needed

*Knowledgeable and friendly customer service

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*Beautiful selection of designer gowns

*Special orders that can be placed through our catalogs

*Dresses are 20% off or Free Alterations

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Your Wedding Gown: Style Do’s and Don’ts

Do: Tie your look to your wedding location. If you're having a traditional ceremony with a formal reception, opt for a classic, gown style. If your getting married outdoors in an afternoon garden ceremony, consider a strapless sheath made of a light material. If you're marrying in the sand on an island, a tea-length gown with festive shoes is the ultimate nontraditional wedding attire.

Don't: Let your wedding style dash your dreams of the perfect gown. If you have your heart set on a fun, sexy gown but you're worried it's not appropriate for your ceremony site, consider carrying a sash for a more demure look during your ceremony.

Do: Think about wearing fun footwear. Getting married in the middle of July? Consider sporting flip-flops under your gown. If you're all cowgirl, try a pair of boots. And for a slope-side winter wedding, you've got the perfect opportunity to don a pair of furry white snow boots.

Don't: Dress more casual than your guests. If you choose to have a black-tie, formal affair and expect your guests to dress up, make sure you follow suit! Any floor-length gown is appropriate, whether decorated with intricate beading, or just accessorized with beautiful jewelry.

Do: Choose the right white for your skin tone, no matter what style you pick.

Do: Let your personality show through your accessories. Give a traditional gown a fun twist with a colorful sash or large, flashy earrings, or keep your style poised and polished with a simple pearl necklace and earrings.

Don't: Let your jewelry overpower your ensemble. If your dress has lots of intricate details already, opt for simple pieces, or even just your engagement ring.

Do: Keep an open mind when it comes to shape. Try on many different types of gowns -- you never know how they'll fit until you take them off the hanger.

Do: Pick the right undergarments. Many bridal salons recommend choosing pieces that closely match your skin tone, and there are many varieties of body-shaping products that will perfect your silhouette no matter how slinky the gown.

-Kristen Hawley

www.TheKnot.com

2008-06-13T13:52:00.001-04:00

Coming Soon , All the information you will need to help you find that special wedding dress.