Bridesmaids Gifts: How Big Is Too Big?

Bridesmaids put in a lot of time, effort, and money to make a couple's wedding day special. From attending the bachelorette party and bridal shower to purchasing a special dress, shoes, and jewellery, it all adds up. While bridesmaid gifts are not required, they are a thoughtful way to thank your bridesmaids for their unwavering support. The price point of the gift should reflect the budget of the overall wedding. According to national averages and expert opinions, brides spend between $50 to $150 per bridesmaid.

When to give bridesmaids their gifts

There are a few different approaches to when you should give your bridesmaids their gifts. Here are some options to consider:

During the Wedding Weekend

You'll likely have a few different opportunities during your wedding weekend to hand over the bridesmaids' presents. Many couples choose to give gifts at the rehearsal dinner, which gives you a little more time to present them thoughtfully. It's also common for brides to give thank-you gifts to their besties on the day of the wedding, especially if it's something they can wear for the occasion, like jewellery.

Shortly Before or After the Wedding

You could also deliver your bridesmaids' gifts shortly before or after the wedding, such as at a bridal luncheon, farewell brunch, or even a few days after the nuptials. This timing may be preferable if the gifts are not meant to be used during the wedding festivities.

Throughout the Wedding Planning Process

If you're giving your bridesmaids multiple gifts, you can spread them out throughout the wedding planning process. For example, you might give a small ""Will you be my bridesmaid?" gift at the beginning of the process, followed by a thank-you gift closer to the wedding.

One-on-One Time

If you want to give a more personal gift to your maid of honour, you can schedule some one-on-one time with her shortly before the wedding. This allows you to hand over the present and express your gratitude without interruptions.

How much to spend on gifts

While there is no "must-spend" amount on bridesmaid gifts, it is highly recommended to get your bridal party gifts as a token of appreciation for their time, money, and emotional support. The amount you spend on these gifts depends on your wedding budget, the number of bridesmaids, and how much your bridal party is financially contributing to your wedding.

On average, couples spend around $80 per person, but this number is not set in stone. If you can only spend $50 per person, that's okay too. You could also opt to pay for some of their wedding costs, like their dresses, accessories, hair, makeup, or accommodations.

A good rule of thumb is to spend around what you would typically spend on a birthday or holiday gift for each person. You can also calculate how much you believe your bridesmaids will spend to be part of your wedding and then multiply that by 10% to get a more accurate budget for each gift. For the maid of honor, it is recommended to spend 15-20% of what she is spending, as she tends to have more responsibilities and expenses.

When deciding on gifts, it is important to make them as personal as possible. You can give each bridesmaid something they can wear during the wedding ceremony, like jewelry or a stylish clutch, but make sure it is something they will use and cherish for years to come. You can also give them something that is not wedding-specific, like a personalized thermos, a luxe skincare set, or a gift certificate to their favorite local coffee shop.

Remember, it's not about spending a certain amount, but rather showing your appreciation for your friends' participation in and excitement for your wedding.

Gift ideas

While there is no obligation to give gifts to your bridesmaids, it is highly recommended. These gifts are a way to show your appreciation for their time, money, and emotional support. They can also serve as mementos of your special day.

The amount you spend on bridesmaid gifts is entirely up to you and your budget. It is recommended to spend around $75 to $150 per bridesmaid, with some sources suggesting an average of $80 per person. You may also want to spend a little more on a gift for the maid of honor to reflect her additional responsibilities.

When deciding what gifts to give your bridesmaids, it is important to choose something personal and thoughtful. Here are some gift ideas to consider:

• Jewelry: A piece of jewelry, such as a necklace or bracelet, can be a meaningful gift for your bridesmaids. It can be personalized with their birth flower, birthstone, or favorite color. Jewelry can also be worn during the wedding ceremony, adding a special touch to their attire.
• Monogrammed items: Personalized items such as champagne flutes, jewelry boxes, or clutches with their initials or monogram can make your bridesmaids feel special. These items can also be used during the wedding weekend and serve as keepsakes.
• Beauty products: A luxe skincare set or their favorite beauty products, such as lip gloss or an eyeshadow palette, can be a great way to pamper your bridesmaids.
• Loungewear or beachwear: Comfortable and stylish loungewear or beachwear can be a practical and enjoyable gift for your bridesmaids.
• Candles: A candle in their favorite scent can create a relaxing atmosphere and remind them of your special day.
• Relaxation kits: Putting together relaxation kits with a theme or scent that suits each bridesmaid can be a thoughtful way to help them unwind.
• Experience-based gifts: Consider giving your bridesmaids an experience they can enjoy, such as a spa treatment, a wine bar outing, or tickets to a show. This can also be a fun way to spend quality time together before the wedding.
• Practical gifts: Practical gifts such as a stylish clutch, a personalized thermos, or a makeup bag can be both useful and memorable.
• Sentimental gifts: A book you know they would love or a gift certificate to their favorite coffee shop can show your bridesmaids that you know and appreciate them.

Paying for bridesmaids' wedding expenses

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it can also be a major financial commitment. While there are no steadfast rules dictating what expenses bridesmaids should pay for, there are a few costs that you can almost always expect them to cover. These include their outfits, travel and accommodation, and the bachelorette party.

Outfits

Bridesmaids are typically expected to pay for their own dresses, shoes, and accessories. The cost of these items can vary widely, from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. If you're concerned about the cost, consider choosing a less expensive option or allowing bridesmaids to choose their own dresses within a certain colour or style.

Travel and accommodation

Bridesmaids are usually responsible for their own travel and lodging for the wedding night or weekend, especially if it's a destination wedding. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to be mindful of how much you're asking your bridesmaids to pay.

Bachelorette party

The bachelorette party is typically planned and paid for by the bridesmaids, although there may be some flexibility here depending on the group's budget. While it's not expected that bridesmaids cover the bride's portion, they may pitch in for a special dinner or her hotel costs.

Other expenses

Bridesmaids may also be expected to pay for their hair and makeup, bridal shower, wedding gifts, and any other pre-wedding events or activities. However, it's important to communicate openly about financial expectations and be understanding if someone needs to opt out due to financial constraints.

Ways to reduce costs

There are a few ways to help reduce the financial burden on your bridesmaids:

• Be flexible with attire, allowing them to choose their own dresses or accessories within a certain budget.
• Offer to subsidise the cost of their outfits if you have a specific vision that is more expensive.
• If you're requiring professional hair and makeup, consider covering the cost as a thank-you gift.
• Provide food and transportation for the wedding day and rehearsal dinner.
• Be transparent about all expected costs upfront, so bridesmaids can plan and budget accordingly.

Remember, it's important to be mindful of your bridesmaids' financial situations and communicate openly to avoid any misunderstandings or resentment. Being a bridesmaid is already a significant time and emotional commitment, so try to find ways to reduce the financial burden where possible.

Where to buy bridesmaid gifts

There is no definitive rule on how much you should spend on bridesmaid gifts, but it's important to get something to show your appreciation for all their help and support. While it's not mandatory, it has become a modern-day tradition for the bride to thank her bridesmaids with a small gift. This could be a getting-ready robe, a piece of jewellery, or a box of goodies.

If you're wondering where to buy these gifts, there are plenty of options. The Knot Shop is a great place to start, with budget-friendly gifts like drinkware, totes, clutches, makeup bags, apparel, and jewellery—almost all of which can be personalised. Etsy is another excellent choice, offering a wide range of wedding guest gifts, from favours to premade proposal boxes and sentimental keepsakes. You're sure to find something for your MOH and bridesmaids within your budget.

For practical yet cute and high-end gifts, check out Anthropologie's Gifts & Candles section, which includes monogrammed coffee mugs, mini perfume bottles, and astrology books. If you're looking for personalised jewellery, Made By Mary is a top choice, offering custom-stamped necklaces, bracelets, birth flower or birthstone rings, and earrings.

For those who want to splurge on something more expensive, Mark & Graham is a trusted place for personalised wedding party gifts, such as monogrammed bags, drinkware, and travel accessories. Uncommon Goods is another unique option, featuring one-of-a-kind gifts from independent artists, including jewellery, wellness gifts, mixology essentials, and custom artwork.

If you're on a tighter budget, WeddingWire Shop offers stylish and customisable options, including makeup bags and totes, at affordable prices. Packed Party is another fun choice for cute keepsakes and favours. Don't forget to start your search early to allow for any customisation and delivery times!

Frequently asked questions