I have a couple of old Mavic wheel sets with MA2 and MA40 rims. Two of the most difficult to mount due to a shallow well. I usually start opposite the stem and work both sides equally back to the stem. On other rims I can start anywhere.
What no one else mentioned and is very helpful in making room for the bead is to push the stem up into the tire cavity when you're getting close to the end. The base of the stem on the tube is thick and competes for space. Once you can pop the bead over the rim then pull the stem down again towards the spoke bed before inflating. (or just hold the tire down over it and let the pump push it into position)