Asking the parties?

8-6 months is ideal. Any earlier and some people have had regrets and have grown apart from their bridal party.

I would ask individually in case someone has to decline, it will hopefully make it less awkward.

Be prepared with a rough budget for dresses and suits/tuxes. Some people might not be able to afford it and will need a heads up to start saving.

6-10 months is recommended for reasons previously stated. I went against this for my MOH (my sister) because she lives out of state and I wanted to ask her in person. I asked her at Christmas this past year. However, I'll be asking my other two girls in a couple months. My roommate and I will be doing a cake decorating and cocktail evening at the end of August, so I plan on making a cake topper that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid?" and sticking it on her cake after she's done decorating. I haven't decided how I will ask my other friend yet.

Most people ask about 6 months to a year out. That being said, I asked my MOH 23 months out and my other two bridesmaids 22 months out. This isn't generally advised because friendships can change or end. I've just been fortunately blessed with a small but extremely close set of friends. My FH asked his best man about 18 months out, and is asking his other two groomsmen this month (9 months out).

I mean I just Facebook messaged mine. But..... we are lame and all of us have kids, so no life. I did also send them little bridesmaid boxes AFTER they said yes! I didn't want it to feel awkward for them if they weren't into the idea, so I asked first, sent later.

I asked about a year out. I wouldn't ask any earlier than that due to regrets or drama that may occur between now and your wedding date.