Bridesmaids Gifts: When To Give And Why

Bridesmaids play an important role in a wedding and are responsible for several duties before, during, and after the wedding. They also incur costs related to attire, travel, and accommodations. It is customary for brides to give their bridesmaids gifts as tokens of appreciation. The timing of these gifts is flexible and can be given at various pre-wedding events or on the wedding day itself. Some popular options include giving gifts at the bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner, or while getting ready on the morning of the wedding. These gifts are a way for the bride to express her gratitude and create memorable moments with her bridal party.

When to give bridesmaid proposal gifts

There are a few different approaches you can take when deciding on the timing of your bridesmaid proposal gifts. Here are some options to consider:

• When asking in person: If you are asking your friends to be your bridesmaids in person, you can give them a small gift at the same time. This is a lovely gesture to get your bridal party excited about the upcoming events.
• By mail: If you are asking your bridesmaids by mail, you can include a gift in the package as a surprise when they receive your question.
• A few days before the wedding: If you have a gift that you would like your bridesmaids to wear or use on the wedding day, such as jewellery or robes, giving it to them a few days in advance will allow them to have it ready for the big day.
• At the rehearsal dinner: The rehearsal dinner is a traditional and popular time to give bridesmaid gifts. All of your bridesmaids will be present, and it saves you from worrying about gifting on the day of the wedding. It is common to give the gifts at the end of the dinner, so your bridesmaids don't have to worry about keeping track of their gift throughout the evening.
• On the morning of the wedding: You can give your bridesmaids their gifts while you are all getting ready together on the morning of the wedding. This allows you to capture the moment of excitement on camera. However, keep in mind that everyone will likely be busy with hair and makeup, so you may want to block out a specific moment for gifting.
• At a bridal brunch or luncheon: If you are having a bridal brunch or luncheon, either before the wedding or on the day of, this can be a good time to give out gifts, especially if some of your bridesmaids are arriving late or on the day of the wedding.

Remember, it is recommended to save the gift-giving for the week of the wedding when everyone has arrived in town. You don't want to give the gifts too early, but you also don't want to wait until the last minute and risk being overwhelmed with tasks in the hours leading up to the ceremony.

When to give thank-you gifts

There are a few different approaches you can take when deciding when to give your bridesmaids their thank-you gifts. Here are some options to consider:

• At the bridal luncheon: Traditionally, gifts are given at the bridal luncheon, which usually takes place the day before the wedding or during the week of the wedding. This is a great opportunity to thank your bridesmaids for all their efforts in helping you prepare for your big day. It's also a good time to give them something they can wear during the wedding, like robes or jewellery.
• The day before the wedding: If you're having a small celebration with your bridal party the day before the wedding, this can be a perfect moment to give out gifts. This timing works especially well if you have a gift that you'd like your bridesmaids to use or wear on the wedding day.
• The morning of the wedding: You can also choose to give gifts when you and your bridesmaids are getting ready together on the morning of your wedding. This option ensures that all your bridesmaids are present and allows the photographer to capture their excited reactions. However, keep in mind that everyone will likely be busy with hair and makeup, so block out a specific moment for gift-giving.
• At the rehearsal dinner: The rehearsal dinner is another popular choice for gift-giving. All your bridesmaids will be in attendance, and it saves you from worrying about distributing gifts in the final hours before the ceremony. If you're giving them something to wear or use on the wedding day, this timing also gives them the opportunity to bring their gift along. Most brides choose to present the gifts at the end of the dinner, so their bridesmaids don't have to worry about keeping track of their gift throughout the night.
• A few days before the wedding: If you have a large wedding or a destination event, you might consider giving your bridesmaid gifts a few days before the ceremony. This is a good option if you want them to have their gifts ahead of the wedding day, especially if it's something you'd like them to use or wear during the celebrations.
• After the wedding: You can also opt to give thank-you gifts shortly after the wedding, such as at a farewell brunch. Alternatively, if the gift is not meant for the wedding day, you can hand it out a few days after the nuptials.

What to give as a gift

There are many options to choose from when it comes to bridesmaids' gifts. Here are some ideas to consider:

Practical Gifts

• A tumbler or water bottle to keep them hydrated
• Hand cream or fragrance to feel refreshed
• Their favourite snacks to stay energised throughout the day
• Small bottles of bug spray or sunscreen for a beach wedding

Customised Gifts

• Personalised items such as jewellery, clutches, or robes
• Customised gift bags with their favourite items
• Monogrammed items such as tote bags, towels, or jewellery dishes

Gift Experiences

• Online classes such as watercolour painting, astrology chart readings, or wine tastings
• A spa day or salon experience, such as manicures or pedicures
• A day of personalised pampering, including custom scents and makeup

Sentimental Gifts

• A photo book or custom illustration of you and your bridesmaid
• A wellness journal or a book about their zodiac sign
• Birthstone or birth flower jewellery
• A candle with a celebratory scent, such as champagne

How many gifts to give

There is no set number of gifts that you have to give your bridesmaids. The number of gifts you give is entirely up to you and your budget. You could give your bridesmaids a proposal gift when you ask them to be part of your bridal party, and then a thank-you gift at some point during the wedding week. This could be at the rehearsal dinner, the bridal luncheon, or the morning of the wedding.

If you are giving them something to wear during the wedding, like jewellery or robes, it's a good idea to give these gifts a few days before the wedding, or at the rehearsal dinner. That way, your bridesmaids will be able to wear them as they get ready for the wedding, and your photographer can capture the moment.

How much to spend on gifts

While there are no set rules on how much to spend on bridesmaids' gifts, it is important to show your appreciation for their time, effort, and money spent on your wedding. The amount you spend will depend on your wedding budget and the financial contributions of your bridal party. For instance, they may be covering their travel, accommodation, outfits, and pre-wedding event costs.

As a general rule, it is recommended to spend between $75 to $150 per bridesmaid. If your budget allows, you may want to be more extravagant with the Maid of Honor's gift, as she often has more responsibilities.

It is worth noting that gifts are not the only way to express your gratitude. A heartfelt "thank you" after every errand, late-night phone call, or pre-wedding event goes a long way. Additionally, a handwritten thank-you card is always appreciated. You could also consider covering some of their wedding-related expenses, such as hair and makeup, dresses, accessories, or accommodations.

Ultimately, the decision on how much to spend is a personal one, and there is no "typical" amount. It is the thought that counts, and you can always get creative and look for deals to make your budget go further.

Frequently asked questions