Best Man Gifts: An American Tradition?

Wedding traditions vary across the world, and the exchange of gifts between the groom and best man is no exception. In some cultures, the groom presents the best man with a gift, while in others, the best man is responsible for gifting the groom. This paragraph aims to explore the traditions and expectations surrounding best man gifts and whether they are, in fact, only an American custom.

Best man gifts: cufflinks, key rings, card cases, silver pencils

Best man gifts are a thoughtful way to thank the best man for his role in your wedding. Here are some ideas for cufflinks, key rings, card cases, and silver pencils that will show your appreciation:

Cufflinks

Cufflinks are a classic gift choice and can be personalised or engraved to mark the occasion. For example, you could opt for a set of personalised gold cufflinks, or a unique pair of meteorite cufflinks. If you're looking for something more lighthearted, there are also novelty options, like Mandalorian cufflinks for Star Wars fans.

Key Rings

A key ring is a practical gift that can be used every day. You could gift your best man a personalised key ring with his initials, or a fun option like a miniature Leatherman Squirt, which includes needle-nose pliers and a two-sided file.

Card Cases

A card case is a sleek and stylish gift. You could opt for a luxury option, like a Gucci cardholder with a money clip, or a more affordable yet still elegant choice, such as a slim, minimalist wallet in leather or metal.

Silver Pencils

A silver pencil is a unique gift that can be engraved and is sure to stand out. This gift combines luxury with practicality and is a fun alternative to a pen.

These gift ideas are a great way to thank your best man and will leave him with a memorable keepsake from your wedding day.

Gifts to be given at the bachelor's dinner or rehearsal dinner

While it is not customary to give gifts at the bachelor's dinner or rehearsal dinner, it is not uncommon either. If you are looking for gift ideas for the best man to be given at the bachelor's dinner or rehearsal dinner, here are some suggestions:

Gifts for the Best Man

• Personalized golf balls or other sports memorabilia
• Adventure gear such as a camping hammock, a durable backpack, or a multi-tool set
• Elegant cuff links, perhaps with his initials or the wedding date
• A personalized watch with an engraved message on the back
• A custom money clip with his initials or a meaningful symbol
• A nice bottle of wine, paired with a personalized wine opener or wine glasses
• A set of high-quality whiskey glasses, perhaps with unique designs or engravings
• An experience such as a whiskey-tasting tour, a sports game, or a spa day
• Personalized artwork, such as a painting, caricature, or photo collage
• A high-quality grooming kit, including a luxury shaving set, skincare products, and a stylish toiletry bag
• Personalized barware, such as engraved whiskey glasses, a customized cocktail shaker, or a monogrammed decanter
• A subscription box tailored to his interests, such as a monthly coffee sampler, a book club subscription, or a grooming kit delivery

Gifts for the Bridal Party

If you are also looking for gift ideas for the bridal party, here are some suggestions:

• Jewelry to wear with their dresses, such as pearl necklaces and earrings
• Purses or cosmetic bags
• Digital picture frames loaded with photos of the bridal party
• Personalized compacts
• Jewelry, flip-flops, cosmetic bags
• Flasks or mugs, and alcohol
• Paying for their hair and makeup to be done on the wedding day
• A pre-wedding pampering session, such as manicures and pedicures
• A soccer jersey with their names on the back
• Scentsy candles
• Coach purses
• A wedding day survival kit
• A multi-tool for the outdoorsy person
• A digital photo frame
• A personalized compact mirror

Gifts for the bridal party can be given at the rehearsal dinner, and they don't have to be expensive. It's the thought that counts!

Gifts to be addressed to the bride

Gifts are a wonderful way to show your appreciation and celebrate your upcoming nuptials with the bride. Here are some thoughtful and unique gift ideas to address to the bride:

Sentimental Tokens:

• Engraved Bracelet: A bracelet with a custom engraving, such as her new initials, wedding date, or a heartfelt message, is a lovely way to commemorate this special time.
• Ring Holder: A gorgeous crystal ring holder, like the Baccarat Mille Nuits Ring Holder, provides a safe and elegant place for her engagement and wedding rings.

Practical Gifts:

• Luggage Set: A durable and stylish luggage set, like the Away Carry-On, is perfect for the honeymoon and future travels, promising many adventures ahead.
• Jewelry Cleaning Kit: Help her keep her sparklers in top shape with a jewelry cleaning kit, such as the one from Diamond Drunk, complete with a non-toxic cleaning solution.

Luxurious Splurges:

• Cashmere Throw: Indulge her with a luxurious cashmere throw, like the Sofia Cashmere Fringed Cashmere Throw, to keep her cozy on chilly nights. It comes in a variety of colors to match her taste.
• Diamond Jewelry: Diamonds are a girl's best friend. Consider a glittering diamond tennis bracelet, like the Brilliant Earth Versailles Diamond Tennis Bracelet, or diamond earrings to make her feel extra special.

Personalized Gifts:

• Monogrammed Luggage Tag and Passport Case: Get her ready for her honeymoon with a personalized luggage tag and passport case set, like the Mark & Graham Vegan Leather set, featuring her new initials.
• Custom Scenery Artwork: Commemorate a special location, such as where you first met or got engaged, with a beautiful watercolor-style portrait by artists John and Rachel Stewart.

Relaxing Gifts:

• Silk Pajama Set: Bridal pajamas are a must, and a luxe silk set, like the Lunya Washable Silk Tee Set, will ensure she feels comfortable and pampered before the wedding and during her honeymoon.
• Bath Bombs: For a practical yet hilarious gift, consider a set of bath bombs in the shape of giant chill pills, like the OUAI Chill Pills bath fizzies, to help her unwind after busy wedding preparations.

Bridal Accessories:

• Bridal Robe: A satin robe, like the Flora Nikrooz Showstopper Long Robe, makes for a perfect getting-ready outfit, especially if she's still looking for one. Pretty details like floral lace trim make it extra special.
• "Mrs." Clutch: Celebrate her new prefix with a chic "Mrs." clutch, like the one from Mansur Gavriel, that she can use during wedding-related errands, her bachelorette party, or even on her honeymoon.

Gifts for the groom: personalised sports memorabilia, tickets, kitchen gadgets, a high-quality cookbook

When it comes to gifts for the groom, there are several options to choose from, including personalised sports memorabilia, tickets, kitchen gadgets, and cookbooks.

For sports fans, consider a personalised golf shoe bag, a set of golf clubs, or a customised football. If the groom is a fan of poker or golf, there are gifts to improve their skills, such as a personalised golf cooler or a set of poker chips.

Tickets to a sporting event or a concert are always a great option for grooms who love live entertainment.

For grooms who enjoy cooking, a high-quality cookbook can be a thoughtful gift. The "Bride & Groom: First and Forever Cookbook" by Mary Corpening Barber and Sara Corpening Whiteford is an excellent choice. It offers 125 recipes, including classic dishes like lasagna and grilled chicken, as well as romantic meals for two. The book also provides valuable advice on kitchen equipment and pantry essentials, making it a comprehensive guide for novice cooks.

Kitchen gadgets can also be a fun and practical gift for grooms who love to spend time in the kitchen. Options include personalised kitchen tools, such as engraved knives or customised aprons.

With these ideas in mind, you can choose a gift that aligns with the groom's interests and creates a lasting memory of the special occasion.

Gifts for the best man: something small or symbolic, like a heartfelt note or token of friendship

While it is customary for the groom to give a gift to the best man as a token of appreciation, it is not obligatory for the best man to give a gift to the groom. If he does, it is usually something small or symbolic, like a heartfelt note or token of friendship. Here are some ideas for small and symbolic gifts that are meaningful and show appreciation:

• A heartfelt, handwritten note expressing gratitude, sharing memories, or conveying the importance of your friendship.
• A unique token or trinket that symbolises your friendship or a shared memory. For example, a customised bobblehead of the best man or a pair of socks to wear on the wedding day.
• A small gift that aligns with their interests, such as sports memorabilia, tickets to a game, a stylish wallet, or a durable travel mug.
• Personalised items like a monogrammed decanter, engraved cufflinks, or a watch with a heartfelt message inscribed on the back.
• A nice bottle of wine or their favourite vintage, paired with a personalised wine opener or wine glasses.
• A subscription box tailored to their interests, such as a monthly coffee sampler or a book club subscription.
• A practical gift that they can use long after the wedding, such as a personalised toiletry bag, a high-quality grooming kit, or a smart wallet with AirTag tracking.
• An experience gift, such as a whiskey-tasting tour, a sports game, or a spa day, to create lasting memories together.

Remember, when choosing a gift for the best man, it's important to consider their interests, personality, and preferences. Avoid generic gifts and instead opt for something thoughtful and meaningful that reflects your appreciation for their unique qualities and their role in your special day.

Frequently asked questions