Gifts For Bridesmaids: A Guide To Choosing The Perfect Present

Being a bridesmaid is a big honour, but it can also be a big financial commitment. From travel and accommodation to outfits and accessories, the costs can really add up. So, do you need to buy gifts for the bridal party on top of everything else?

According to wedding etiquette, it is customary for bridesmaids to give the bride a gift, even if you're already spending a lot of money to be part of their big day. However, this is not a requirement and you shouldn't feel pressured to spend more than you can afford. If you're short on funds, you could always ask the other bridesmaids to chip in on a group gift, write a heartfelt card, or give a speech at the rehearsal dinner instead.

You don't need to get bridesmaids gifts, but it's highly recommended

While it is not mandatory to get your bridesmaids gifts, it is highly recommended. Picking out a small gift for each of your bridesmaids is a great way to let them know how special they are to you and how much you appreciate their support. It can also serve as a memento of your wedding that they can cherish for years to come.

There are many ways to express your gratitude to your bridesmaids. Firstly, be sure to thank them after every errand, late-night planning phone call, and pre-wedding event they attend or host. Additionally, a handwritten thank-you card is a must. If you don't want to give a gift, you could also offer to pay for some or all of their wedding costs, such as their dresses, accessories, makeup, hair, or accommodations near the venue.

If you do decide to give gifts, there are many options to choose from. Practical presents that they can use long after the wedding, such as makeup bags, coffee cups, or jewellery boxes, are always a good idea. You can also add a personal touch by gifting something tailored to each bridesmaid's tastes. Matching sets, such as pyjamas or toiletry kits, are another fun option. If you're looking for something more extravagant, you could consider a nameplate necklace or a pair of headphones.

The average amount spent on a bridal party gift is $75 to $100 per person, but you can certainly spend less or more depending on your budget. It's also a good idea to keep things pretty even from attendant to attendant. Remember, it's the thought that counts!

Gifts can be small or big, it's your choice

While it is not mandatory to get your bridesmaids gifts, it is highly recommended. Picking out something small or big for each wedding attendant will let them know how special they are to you and how much you appreciate their support. It can also serve as a memento for the occasion that they can cherish for years.

Gifts aren't the only way to express your gratitude, though. You should definitely thank your bridesmaids after every errand, late-night planning phone call, and pre-wedding event they attend or host. A handwritten thank-you card is also a must.

If you're on a tight budget, you could opt to pay for some or all of their wedding costs, such as their dresses, accessories, makeup, hair, or housing accommodations at or near the venue, instead of buying them presents.

If you've decided to buy gifts, know that you don't need to go over the top to show your gratitude. It's the thought that counts. There's no rule that you have to give a certain number of gifts to your bridal party. It'll come down to your budget and what you want to give. One luxury bridesmaid gift is just as good as a few smaller, less expensive items.

The average amount spent on a bridal party gift is $75 to $100 per person. Depending on your budget and the size of your bridal party, it is perfectly fine to spend less or more. You can also spend a little more on a maid of honour or someone who has gone above and beyond to make your day memorable.

Gifts can serve as mementos of the occasion

If you're looking for a more indulgent gift, you could opt for a nameplate necklace with lab-grown diamonds, or a pair of Beats headphones. For something more relaxed, a waffle-knit cardigan and pants set, or a silk tee and shorts set could be a good choice. For beauty lovers, a set of luxury skincare products or a rollerball perfume could be a great memento of the occasion.

If you're looking for a group gift, you could get matching sets, such as a toiletry kit or pyjamas. You could also give your bridesmaids a bottle of champagne, or a personalised photo frame.

You can pay for some or all of their wedding costs instead

If you're looking for ways to show your bridesmaids how much you appreciate their support, you can opt to pay for some or all of their wedding costs. This could include their dresses, accessories, hair and makeup, or even their accommodation near the venue. This is a great way to ease the financial burden on your bridal party, especially if they are travelling for the wedding.

While gifts are a nice way to express your gratitude, covering some of their expenses can be an even more thoughtful way to say thank you. It's important to remember that being a bridesmaid can be costly, so helping to alleviate some of those costs will surely be appreciated.

You can also combine this with a handwritten thank-you card, which is always a meaningful gesture. A card gives you the opportunity to express your appreciation in words and let your bridesmaids know how special they are to you.

Additionally, you can consider giving them a small memento or token of appreciation that is unrelated to the wedding. This could be something personalised or practical that they can use long after the wedding, like a piece of jewellery or a nice makeup bag.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and you can choose to express your gratitude in a way that feels right for you and your budget.

A handwritten thank-you card is a must

The card is an opportunity to express your sincerest appreciation for your bridesmaids' presence, time, money, and emotional support throughout your wedding journey. It is a chance to acknowledge the efforts they have made, from attending pre-wedding events to hosting and planning celebrations. Their contributions have undoubtedly enhanced your special day, and a handwritten card is a simple yet impactful way to recognise their dedication.

The personal touch of handwriting adds to the sincerity of your message. It demonstrates that you have taken the time and effort to craft a unique expression of gratitude for each bridesmaid. This can be especially meaningful if you include specific details about their contributions and the difference they have made. Whether it's their help with planning, their presence at late-night phone calls, or their participation in pre-wedding events, a handwritten card allows you to acknowledge these acts of support individually.

Additionally, a handwritten card can be a creative outlet for you to explore. You can customise and personalise the cards to match each bridesmaid's personality or your wedding theme. From elegant calligraphy to fun illustrations, you can make the cards a reflection of your style and a keepsake that complements the occasion.

In conclusion, while gifts are wonderful, a handwritten thank-you card is an essential and powerful way to express your gratitude to your bridesmaids. It is a simple, yet meaningful gesture that can leave a lasting impression and make your bridesmaids feel valued and appreciated.

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