Bridesmaid Gifts: Necessary Tokens Of Appreciation Or Not?

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding journey. They are there to support the bride throughout the entire wedding planning process, from celebrating the engagement to helping plan the bachelorette party, and finally, being by the bride's side as she walks down the aisle. It is therefore customary for brides to give their bridesmaids gifts as a token of appreciation. While gifts for bridesmaids are not obligatory, they are a popular way for couples to express their gratitude. This article will explore the different aspects of bridesmaid gifts, including when to give them, how much to spend, and what types of gifts are appropriate.

Practical gifts

While it's not mandatory to give your bridesmaids gifts, it's a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their support and presence on your special day. If you're looking for practical gift ideas, here are some suggestions:

• A versatile bag that can be used during the wedding planning process, such as the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag.
• Personalized items like makeup bags, coffee cups, or jewelry boxes with their initials or names engraved on them.
• Tumblers or water bottles to keep your bridal party hydrated, such as the Stanley Quencher Tumbler.
• A cozy throw blanket with their name embroidered on it, such as the Fringe Crafts waffle throw blanket.
• A travel jewelry case to keep their accessories organized and tangle-free, such as the Mark & Graham vegan leather jewelry case.
• A set of masks to pamper their skin and give them a glow on your wedding day, such as the Patchology Bubbly Hydrogel Mask.
• A personalized jewelry dish to hold their rings and other jewelry, such as the Collective Home monogrammed trinket dish.
• A planner or daily organizer to help them keep track of wedding events and their personal schedules, such as the Papier Le Classique daily planner.

Custom touches

Adding a custom touch to your bridesmaids' gifts is a great way to make your bridal party feel special and appreciated. Here are some ideas for personalised presents:

Monogrammed Items

Monogramming is a classic way to add a unique touch to a gift. You can monogram almost anything, from luxury throw blankets to cell phone cases and hair ties. It's a great way to give your bridesmaids something that is truly theirs and will be used long after the wedding day.

Personalised Jewellery

Personalised jewellery is another thoughtful gift option. You can engrave their initials on a necklace, ring, or bracelet, or choose jewellery with their individual birth flower or a friendship pendant. You could also opt for gemstone coin necklaces or zodiac coin necklaces that incorporate their birth month or zodiac sign.

Custom-Made Art

For a truly unique gift, consider commissioning custom-made art. For example, you could have a favourite food, animal, quote, or location hand-painted by an artist. This could be a meaningful place, such as where you went for your bachelorette party or your wedding venue, to create a keepsake gift.

Embroidered Items

Embroidered items, such as pyjamas, sweatshirts, or robes, are another way to add a custom touch. You can embroider your crew's wedding title and names, or even their wedding role, onto the fabric. These items will not only be comfortable but also create lasting memories.

Birthdate Candles

Birthdate candles are a unique gift idea that combines astrology, numerology, and tarot. You can personalise the candle with your bridesmaids' birthdays and names, including their zodiac sign and a custom scent. It's a long-lasting gift that will remind them of your special day every time they light it.

Gift bags

While bridesmaids' gifts are not obligatory, they are a thoughtful way to thank your bridal party for their support and help throughout your wedding journey. A gift bag is a great way to present a collection of smaller gifts, and there are many options to choose from.

Gift Bag Ideas

• Tote bags are a popular choice for bridesmaids' gifts, and can be used to carry other gifts. They can be personalised with initials or names, and are available in a range of materials including leather, canvas, burlap, and vegan leather.
• Cosmetic bags are another option, and can be personalised with initials or names.
• Paper gift bags with handles are a good choice if you want to include a small number of items, and can be purchased in bulk.
• Reusable grocery bags are an eco-friendly option, and can be purchased in bulk.

Gift Bag Fillers

• Cosmetics such as lip gloss, nail polish, hand sanitiser, body spray, and lotion.
• Practical items such as compact mirrors, sewing kits, and small towels.
• Food and drink such as cookies, candy, and miniature alcohol bottles.
• Accessories such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
• Relaxation items such as eye masks, bath soaks, and candles.
• Personalised items such as embroidered pyjamas, monogrammed tote bags, and custom-illustrated cards.

Cost

The cost of bridesmaid gifts can vary depending on your budget and the size of your bridal party. On average, brides spend around $75 to $100 per person, but you can certainly spend less or more depending on your financial situation. It is also common to spend a little extra on a gift for the maid of honour.

If you are on a tight budget, a small gift to show your appreciation will always be welcomed. You can also give gifts that help reduce your bridal party's expenses, such as spa services, wedding day jewellery, or special wedding attire.

If your wedding plans require your bridal party to spend a significant amount on attire, travel, or other expenses, you may want to consider a more luxurious gift to show your appreciation. It is important to include wedding party gifts in your overall wedding budget and plan ahead to ensure you stay within your means.

Additionally, you may want to give a little extra to those who have gone above and beyond, such as the maid of honour, to show your gratitude for their support and commitment.

When to give the gifts

There are a few different options for when to give your bridesmaids their gifts. The two most common times are either at the rehearsal dinner or the morning of the wedding when you are all getting ready. If you're giving your bridesmaids proposal gifts or boxes, you'll want to give these out about a year before the big day.

If you're not one for tradition, there are a few non-traditional times to give out gifts, including:

• Bridal luncheon: This is supposed to be a more casual event for the bride to get together with her bridesmaids, and it would definitely put everyone in good spirits to give the bridesmaids gifts then.
• Bachelorette party: The bachelorette party is the ultimate time for the bride and her bridesmaids to let loose and have some fun. It would definitely be in the spirit of the occasion to give out the bridesmaids' gifts then.

Frequently asked questions