Best Man Gift Guide: What To Give

The best man plays a crucial role in the wedding, from planning the bachelor party to ensuring the groom arrives at the altar on time. It is customary for the best man to give the groom a gift, or to organise a group gift from the groomsmen. This gift is a token of appreciation and a way to celebrate the groom's special day. While it is not mandatory, it is a thoughtful way to show gratitude and mark the occasion.

The gift can be something personalised, such as cufflinks, a pocket watch, or a wallet with the groom's initials. It could also be an experience, like a hot air balloon ride or a wine-tasting tour. The best man may also choose to give a practical gift, such as a grooming kit or a set of tools.

The cost of the gift is not as important as the thought behind it. It is a way for the best man to show their support and celebrate the groom's journey towards marriage.

Best man gifts: personalised, meaningful and within budget

The best man plays a crucial role in the groom's life, from planning the infamous bachelor party to keeping the groom in check on the wedding day. It is customary for the best man to give the groom a gift, and this presents an opportunity to show your appreciation with a thoughtful and meaningful present. Here are some tips and ideas to help you choose the perfect gift while staying within your budget:

Dos and Don'ts:

• Do consider their interests: Think about the groom's hobbies and what they enjoy doing in their free time. For example, if they are into sports, consider personalised sports memorabilia or tickets to a game. If they love cooking, look for unique kitchen gadgets or a high-end cookbook.
• Don't give generic gifts: Avoid impersonal and insincere gifts that lack thought and meaning. Instead, choose something that reflects the groom's interests, personality, or hobbies to show that you value their unique qualities.
• Do personalise the gift: Adding a personal touch to your gift, such as engraving their initials or a special message, will make it more special and serve as a lasting reminder of your friendship.
• Don't make it all about you: While you want to show your appreciation, remember to consider the groom's preferences and interests as well. Avoid choosing a gift solely based on your own tastes or what you think is cool.
• Do consider your budget: It's important to set a budget and stick to it. Remember, it's the thought and effort that count, not the price tag. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that will still make the groom feel special.
• Do give a practical gift: Consider the groom's daily needs and hobbies when selecting a gift. For example, a personalised toiletry bag, a stylish wallet, or a durable travel mug are thoughtful and useful gifts.

Gift Ideas:

• Personalised Pocket Watch: A timeless and sophisticated gift that can be engraved with the groom's initials or a special message.
• Cufflinks: Elegant cufflinks can be personalised with the groom's initials or designed to match the wedding theme.
• Wristwatch: A stylish and practical gift that can be personalised by engraving the case or strap.
• Leather Wallet: A high-quality, personalised leather wallet is a practical gift that the groom will use daily.
• Grooming Kit: A premium grooming kit with items such as a razor, shaving cream, and a grooming brush is a thoughtful and useful choice.
• Custom Artwork: Commission a custom piece of artwork that represents a special memory or moment shared with the groom.
• Personalised Whiskey Glass or Decanter Set: For the whiskey enthusiast, a personalised whiskey glass or engraved decanter set with glasses is a wonderful gift.
• Tickets to Their Favourite Sports Team: Treat the best man to tickets to watch their favourite sports team from the best seats in the arena.
• Adventure Experience: Plan a special adventure day, such as a hot air balloon ride, rock climbing, or a driving experience.
• Book Subscription: Sign the groom up for a book subscription service to fuel their literary interests.
• Personalised Barware: For the beverage enthusiast, consider engraved whiskey glasses, a customised cocktail shaker, or a monogrammed decanter.
• Experience Gifts: Instead of a physical item, treat the best man to a memorable experience, such as a whiskey-tasting tour, a sports game, or a spa day.

Gift ideas: sports memorabilia, kitchen gadgets, personalised items

When it comes to choosing a gift for the best man, it's important to put thought into the gift and consider their interests, hobbies, and personality. Here are some gift ideas within the categories of sports memorabilia, kitchen gadgets, and personalised items:

Sports Memorabilia

Sports memorabilia is a great gift option for a best man who is a sports enthusiast. Consider a signed photograph or framed autograph of their favourite athlete or sports team. For example, a signed photograph of a memorable sports moment, such as a goal celebration or a championship win, can be a special keepsake.

Kitchen Gadgets

If the best man enjoys cooking or spending time in the kitchen, unique and functional kitchen gadgets can be a perfect choice. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetable choppers and slicers
• Electric salt and pepper grinders
• Kitchen utensil sets with wooden handles
• Cheese graters and mandoline slicers
• Oil dispensers and sprayers
• Electric appliances, such as a milk frother or fondue pot

Personalised Items

Personalised gifts add a special touch and show the recipient that you put thought and effort into their gift. Here are some ideas for personalised presents:

• Customised golf balls with their initials or a special message
• A stylish watch engraved with their initials or a heartfelt message
• A money clip with their initials or a meaningful symbol
• A bottle of their favourite wine or a unique vintage, paired with personalised wine glasses or a wine opener
• A high-quality grooming kit with essential items like a luxury shaving set and a stylish toiletry bag

Remember, when choosing a gift for the best man, it's important to avoid generic gifts and instead select something that aligns with their interests, hobbies, and personality.

Don't give: generic gifts, inappropriate gifts or wait until the last minute

When it comes to giving gifts as the best man, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure your gift is thoughtful and meaningful. While it's essential to put thought into what you give, it's also crucial to avoid certain pitfalls that can detract from the sentiment you're trying to convey. Here are some detailed guidelines on what not to do when giving gifts as the best man:

Don't Give Generic Gifts

Avoid giving generic gifts that lack thought and personal touch. Steer clear of impersonal presents that may come across as insincere. Instead, take the time to choose a gift that reflects the best man's interests, personality, or hobbies. Opt for something unique that shows your appreciation for their role in the wedding and their presence in your life.

Don't Give Inappropriate Gifts

It is essential to avoid choosing inappropriate gifts that may cause embarrassment or offence. Remember that the gift is meant to show your appreciation and celebrate your friendship. Stay away from anything controversial, offensive, or embarrassing. Refrain from gag gifts or items that might conflict with their personal values or preferences. Ensure that your gift choice aligns with the context of your relationship and the occasion.

Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

Planning a wedding can be hectic, but don't leave gift shopping for the best man until the last minute. Taking your time to consider their interests and preferences is key. Rushing at the last minute can lead to hasty decisions and generic gifts. Start thinking about gift ideas early on and plan ahead to find something that truly shows your appreciation for their support and their role in your special day.

Being thoughtful and considerate in your gift choices will ensure that your gift is well-received and cherished by the best man. Remember to personalise your gift, keep it appropriate, and avoid procrastination to make the best man feel valued and appreciated.

The best man's role: plan the bachelor party, give a speech and a gift

The best man has a crucial role to play in the lead-up to the wedding and on the day itself. Traditionally, the best man is responsible for planning the bachelor party, giving a speech, and giving a gift to the groom. Here's a breakdown of each of these roles:

Planning the Bachelor Party

The bachelor party is a pre-wedding celebration where the groom's closest friends and family members come together to honour his upcoming marriage. The best man is usually responsible for organising this event, which can range from a low-key gathering to a weekend-long vacation. When planning the bachelor party, the best man should consider the groom's interests and include activities that he will enjoy. It's also important to involve the groom in the planning process, whether he wants to be surprised or prefers to be involved in the details. The best man should also communicate all the important information to the groomsmen well in advance, so everyone can make the necessary arrangements.

Giving a Speech

The best man's speech is a highlight of the wedding reception. It typically includes a mix of humorous memories and thoughtful anecdotes about the groom. Here's a basic structure to follow:

• Break the ice: Start with a light-hearted joke or icebreaker to warm up the guests and calm your nerves.
• Introduce yourself: Share how you met the groom and establish your connection to the audience, especially those who may not know you well.
• Messages from afar: Read out messages from friends and family who couldn't attend. You can also include some funny fake messages to lighten the mood.
• Story-time: Share amusing anecdotes and stories about the groom. Keep it friendly and respectful, and consider using props or photos to enhance your story.
• Words of wisdom: Offer some light-hearted and sincere advice for the newlyweds. If you're not married, you can ask married friends or family for their tips.
• Praises for the partner: Take a moment to compliment the groom's partner and share a memory or reflect on their qualities.
• Acknowledge the bridal party: Thank the bridesmaids for their role and support leading up to the wedding.
• Final toast: Conclude your speech by raising a glass to the couple and wishing them a happy future.

Giving a Gift

It is customary for the groom to give a thoughtful gift to the best man as a token of appreciation. When choosing a gift, consider your relationship and the best man's interests. Personalised gifts, such as engraved cufflinks or a watch, are always a good option. Other ideas include a nice bottle of wine, a subscription box tailored to their interests, or a stylish accessory like a belt or tie. If you're on a budget, consider something fun and creative, like a personalised beer glass or a custom art illustration of you and your best man.

Gifting etiquette: give a gift that reflects your friendship and is within your means

Gifting etiquette is an important aspect of being a best man. While it is customary to give a gift to the groom, it is essential to consider your budget and choose something meaningful that reflects your friendship. Here are some guidelines to help you select an appropriate gift:

Do Consider Their Interests

When choosing a gift for the best man, it is crucial to take their interests and hobbies into account. Think about their favourite pastimes and try to find a gift that aligns with their passions. For example, if they are into sports, consider tickets to a game or personalised sports memorabilia. If they enjoy cooking, look for unique kitchen gadgets or a high-quality cookbook. By considering their interests, you can show your appreciation and give them something they will genuinely enjoy.

Don't Give Generic Gifts

Avoid giving generic gifts that lack thought and personal touch. Instead, opt for something that reflects the best man's interests, personality, or hobbies. This shows that you value their unique qualities and have put thought into choosing their gift. It also ensures that your gift stands out and leaves a lasting impression.

Do Personalise the Gift

Adding a personal touch to your gift can make it even more special. Consider engraving their initials, including a heartfelt message, or incorporating a shared memory. Personalised gifts serve as a reminder of your friendship and can become cherished keepsakes. They also show that you acknowledge their unique role in your special day and appreciate their support.

Don't Make it All About You

Remember that the gift is for the best man, so consider their preferences and interests. Avoid choosing something solely based on your own tastes or what you think is cool. Take the time to think about what they would genuinely appreciate and enjoy. It's about celebrating your friendship and showing your gratitude.

Do Consider Your Budget

It is important to set a budget for your best man's gift and stick to it. While you want to show your appreciation, it is also crucial to stay within your means. Remember that it's the thought and effort that count, not the price tag. There are plenty of budget-friendly options available that can still make your best man feel special.

Don't Choose Something Inappropriate

Avoid gifts that could be offensive, controversial, or embarrassing. Stay away from gag gifts or anything that might not align with their personal values or preferences. Remember that this gift is meant to celebrate your friendship, so choose something thoughtful and meaningful instead.

By following these guidelines, you can choose a gift that reflects your friendship, shows your appreciation, and fits within your budget. Remember, it's not about the cost of the gift but the thought and sentiment behind it.

Frequently asked questions