Gifts For Your Bridesmaids: How Many Is Enough?

Bridesmaids put in a lot of time, energy, and money to make the wedding day special for the bride. It is a long-standing tradition to give gifts to the bridal party, and there are no set rules on when to start shopping for these gifts. However, it is recommended to start shopping at least a month or two before the wedding. Brides usually give their bridesmaids two gifts: a proposal gift and a traditional bridesmaid gift. The proposal gift is given when asking someone to be a bridesmaid, while the traditional gift is given during the wedding week. There is no obligation to give gifts to the bridal party, but it is highly recommended to express gratitude for their support.

When to give gifts to bridesmaids

There are a few different approaches to choosing when to give gifts to your bridesmaids. The most popular time to give gifts is at the rehearsal dinner, at the end of the evening, so your bridesmaids can fully enjoy the night without worrying about keeping their gifts safe. This is also a good time to give gifts if you are giving your bridesmaids something to wear or use on the day of the wedding, such as jewellery or robes.

If you are giving your bridesmaids something to wear while getting ready on the morning of the wedding, you can give their gifts to them then, but be sure to factor this in earlier in the day so they can wear their presents throughout the morning. You can also give gifts at a bridal brunch or luncheon, especially if some of your bridesmaids are arriving the day before the wedding or on the day itself.

If you are having a bachelorette party or bridal luncheon, these are also good opportunities to give out gifts in a more relaxed setting. For destination weddings, it is appropriate to give gifts a few days before the ceremony, when attendees start arriving in town.

How much to spend on gifts

While there is no obligation to give your bridesmaids gifts, it is highly recommended. It is a way to show your appreciation for their time, energy, and money spent on your wedding.

How much you spend on bridesmaid gifts depends on your wedding budget and how much your bridal party has contributed to your wedding. For example, they may have paid for plane tickets, hotel rooms, dresses, shoes, bridal showers, and hen nights. It is recommended to spend between $75 to $150 per bridesmaid, with the maid of honour receiving a more extravagant gift due to her increased responsibilities.

If you are on a tight budget, you can still show your appreciation by paying for some of their wedding costs, such as dresses, accessories, makeup, hair, or accommodations. You can also express your gratitude through heartfelt thank-you cards and by telling them how much you appreciate their support.

The average amount spent on bridesmaid gifts is around $80 per person, but this may vary depending on your budget and the number of bridesmaids you have. Ultimately, the most important thing is to show your appreciation and ensure that your gifts are thoughtful and meaningful.

What gifts to give

There are no strict rules about what gifts to give your bridesmaids, but there are some popular options. Firstly, it's important to remember that your bridesmaids are likely putting a lot of time, effort and money into your wedding, so it's a nice gesture to give them something in return. You could give them a gift when asking them to be a member of your bridal party, although this isn't required. You could also give them a small token of your appreciation during the wedding festivities, such as at the rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheon, or bachelorette party.

When choosing what gifts to give, it's a good idea to get something personal for each bridesmaid. You might want to give them something they can wear during the wedding ceremony, such as a piece of jewellery or a stylish clutch. However, consider whether it will be of value to them after the wedding—you want to give them something they will use and cherish for years to come. If you do decide to give them jewellery, you could get it engraved with their initials or choose a necklace or bracelet with their birth flower or stone. You could also create a gift crate with luxury items like candles, spa day gift cards or decadent treats. Monogrammed items are another popular option, such as luxury throw blankets, cell phone cases or hair ties.

If you're on a tighter budget, you could consider covering some of their wedding expenses as a thank-you instead, such as their bridesmaid dresses or wedding accommodations. You should still give each person a handwritten thank-you card, even if you're not giving them a gift. Small tokens like an affordable pair of earrings or personalised drinkware are also an option.

Where to buy gifts

There are many places to buy bridesmaids' gifts, both online and in stores. Here are some options to consider:

Etsy:

Etsy is a great place to start looking for bridesmaids' gifts. It is a hub for small businesses and independent creators, so you're likely to find a wide range of styles and prices. You can find everything from jewellery to proposal boxes to sentimental keepsakes. Just be sure to check product reviews before purchasing.

Anthropologie:

For practical yet cute and high-end gifts, check out Anthropologie's Gifts & Candles section. They even have a specific section for bridesmaid gifts, including monogrammed coffee mugs, mini perfume bottles, and astrology books.

The Knot Shop:

The Knot is a great resource for all things wedding-related, and their shop offers a variety of budget-friendly gifts like drinkware, totes, clutches, makeup bags, apparel, and jewellery, almost all of which can be personalized.

Made By Mary:

If you're looking for personalized jewellery, Made By Mary is a top retailer. They offer custom-stamped necklaces, bracelets, birth flower or birthstone rings, and earrings.

Mark & Graham:

Mark & Graham is a trusted place to shop for personalized wedding party gifts. While they can be a bit more expensive, they offer high-quality monogrammed bags, drinkware, travel accessories, and more.

Uncommon Goods:

For unique and one-of-a-kind bridesmaid gift ideas, Uncommon Goods is a great option. They support independent artists who create everything from jewellery to wellness gifts to mixology essentials and custom artwork. You're sure to find something special for each member of your bridal party.

Bridesmaid Gifts Boutique:

This boutique offers a huge selection of gift sets for the bridal party, including flasks, shot glasses, jewellery, and accessories. They have a range of affordable options that are stylish and unique without breaking the bank.

Local vendors:

Don't forget to check out local vendors and small businesses in your area. You may be able to find some unique and personalized gifts that your bridesmaids will love.

Remember, when choosing gifts for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider their individual personalities and interests. You want to find something they will use and cherish for years to come, so take the time to select gifts that are meaningful and show your appreciation.

Whether to give proposal gifts

Giving gifts to your bridesmaids is a long-standing tradition and a way to show your appreciation for their time, effort, and money spent on making your wedding day special. While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended.

If you are on a tight budget, a heartfelt "thank you" after every errand, late-night planning phone call, and pre-wedding event they attend or host, along with a handwritten thank-you card, is enough. You could also opt to pay for some or all of their wedding costs, such as dresses, accessories, hair and makeup, or accommodations.

If you have a little more room in your budget, you might want to consider giving proposal gifts in addition to thank-you gifts. Proposal gifts are small tokens given when asking your friends and family to be your bridesmaids. They are a lovely gesture to get your bridal party excited about the events to come. You can give them in person or mail them as a surprise along with your proposal.

Remember, there is no hard and fast rule that you have to give a certain number of gifts. It is up to you to decide how many gifts to give and what to give, based on your budget and preferences.

Frequently asked questions