1. The average Bridal Party contains 3 bridesmaids. However you can have from one to as many as you like. Just remember that the more you have, the more it will cost you and the more difficult it will be to please everyone.
2. Choose carefully as you don't want squabbles amongst personalities that clash. Also think of what the girl will or won't be able to afford.
3. When choosing your bridesmaids gowns style try to get one that will co-ordinate with your wedding gown. Usually a simpler style is best. After all you are the star.
4. Colour and style will have to suit each girls individual figure and hair/skin colouring. What suits a willowy size 10 may look awful on a 5' size 18. Sometimes it may be best to have different styles in the same colour. Or sometimes it may be best to have the same styles in different colours.
5. Most bridesmaids these days pay for their own dresses. If one girl is having financial difficulties, you may decide to pay all or part of her dress. Usually it is best to do this discretely if the others are paying for their own.
6. Most Brides buy the jewellery for their bridesmaids as a gift.
7. Silver jewellery with set coloured stones or diamontes is the most popular. It compliments most dress colours.
8. Silver shoes are most popular. However make sure that they are comfortable as it will be a long day. If you aren't used to high heels, try to select shoes with a lower heel. Wider heels help too.
9. Allow plenty of time for the dresses to be ordered in or made by your dressmaker. Some stores offer an alteration service for 'between sizes' girls.
10. Bridesmaids have a responsibility to help the Bride with her dressing. Choose one who is able to be relied on to do an exceptional job.
11. Delegate particular jobs to each girl in advance so each knows what is expected of her. One girl may be asked to take charge of a small flowergirl, another to look out for the Bride's train, another to help with freshening-up, helping with gifts at reception, etc,

More to come later