5 Must-Know Tips Before You Buy Your Mother-of-the-Bride or Groom Dress

Here are some essential tips and key things to know before shopping for your Mother of the Bride/Groom gown...

1. Start with the Dress Timing: Begin shopping 6-8 months before the wedding. Mother's dresses take 4 months to order and allow 2 months for alterations.

2. Coordinate with the Bride: Consult with the bride to discuss colors, formality, and the vibe of what she envisions you wearing the day of. Traditionally, the mother-of-the-bride chooses first, then the mother-of-the-groom coordinates accordingly. Best way is to bring along the bride to your appointments.

3. Try the Full Look—Not Just the Dress: Bring the day of or similar shows and undergarments to appointments and fittings. A dress can look completely different with the right (or wrong) foundation.

4. Alterations Are (Almost) Always Needed: Expect tailoring. Even expensive gowns often need adjustments. Budget both time and money for alterations.

5. Take Photos Before You Buy: Snap pictures in natural lighting from multiple angles to get a true sense of how the dress will appear in wedding photos.