Your besties have been by your side through the thick and thin of planning your wedding. They’ve listened, they’ve encouraged, they’ve gone shopping with you, and are probably hosting a shower or two. They’re buying dresses and shoes, getting manicures and pedicures and generally keeping you sane during this busy time. So how do you thank your friends for being your bridesmaids – plus everyone else who is helping make your big day possible? With wedding party gifts, of course! By the time they're done helping you with all your wedding festivities, you may need to give them these DIY Bridesmaid & Groomsmen "In Case Of Emergency" Kits.
But wait! Don't go shopping just yet – there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Know your budget. Your friends certainly won't want you to blow your budget on gifts for them. Check out this Who Pays for Your Big Day article for some tips and tricks on wedding budget. This Wedding Budget Planning Worksheet is also very helpful - and it's free!
- You don't have to give everyone the same gift – but you can if you want. If you can make the gifts a little personal for each person, do it.
- Traditionally, Maid of Honor and Best Man gifts are slightly nicer or a little more expensive.
- How much are your bridesmaids and groomsmen spending to be in your wedding? Think about buying dresses and renting tuxedos, travel expenses, etc. If they are spending a fair amount, the gifts should be a little nicer.
- If you have gifts in mind, are they items that can be used again? If it's something you would like to receive, chances are your wedding party will too.
Gift Ideas So where do you start with gift shopping? What do you get? Check out these ideas:
- Something to wear at the wedding: matching (or not matching) accessories for their wedding day attire, such as wraps, robes, socks, a purses, cufflinks or jewelry. If you choose to give wedding day accessories, let them know ahead of time so they won't buy something else.
- Something to wear or use while getting ready for the wedding: personalized sweats, robes, slippers, cosmetics bags, tote bags
- Something practical: bottle opener key chain, money holders, flask (filled!), picture frame (with photo of you), journals (try these 3 Mason Jar Gift Ideas for Your Bridesmaids or Any Occasion for a simple little something for your wedding party)
- Something to do: A golf outing, bridesmaids' luncheon or tea, a spa day (This classy Breakfast at Tiffany's Bridesmaid Luncheon could be part of their gift. You could get food catered and make a special event out of it for your favorite girls!)
- Something fun: wine and cheese basket including wine, cheese board, wine glasses, and wine (check out our Wine Tasting Bachelorette Party)
- Don't forget about child attendants! Small toys or stuffed animals are great for flower girls and ring bearers.
Other Gifts
Some couples choose to give gifts to others who took part in their wedding day, as well as family members.
- Parents & Grandparents: They'd love a framed engagement photo! Have your mom rocking this Mother of the Bride Pin and your dad wearing this Father of the Bride Baseball Cap the day of the wedding.
- Guest Book Attendants, Ceremony Readers: engraved keychains, mini lockets
- Each Other: some couples give extravagant gifts while others exchange small tokens of love.
When to Give Gifts are usually given at the rehearsal dinner, including gifts for bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl and ring bearer, and sometimes parents and grandparents. Bridesmaid gifts can also be given at a bridesmaid luncheon (if you’re having one). As your wedding date gets closer and closer, don't forget to take some time to choose thoughtful gifts to thank your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and others participating in your wedding for playing such a big part in your special day.
Your wedding day will be here in just three months! Have you thought about your guest book (or alternatives)? And maybe you have a bridal shower coming up? If the shower hostess has never thrown a bridal shower, share this guide with her. We’ll also help you navigate the rest of your wedding stationery.
See more tips for every phase of your planning process in our Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Guide.
Article written by: Heather Clark
