Bridesmaids Gifts: How Much To Spend And Why

Bridesmaids are an integral part of the wedding ceremony, and it is customary to give them gifts as a token of appreciation. While there is no obligation to give gifts, it is highly recommended to express gratitude for their time, money, and emotional support. The amount spent on bridesmaid gifts varies depending on the wedding budget and the financial contributions of the bridal party. A good rule of thumb is to spend around $75 to $150 per bridesmaid, with the maid of honor receiving a slightly more extravagant gift due to her increased responsibilities. It is important to consider the bridesmaids' interests and preferences when selecting gifts, ensuring that they are thoughtful, personal, and useful beyond the wedding day.

Budgeting for bridesmaid gifts

Consider your wedding budget:

The amount you spend on bridesmaid gifts should align with your overall wedding budget. Remember that your bridesmaids have likely spent money on their attire, travel, and other expenses related to your wedding, so it's thoughtful to acknowledge their contributions with a gift.

Set a price range:

A good rule of thumb is to spend around $75 to $150 per bridesmaid. This range ensures that you can choose high-quality, meaningful gifts. You may also want to allocate a slightly higher amount for your maid of honor, as she typically has additional responsibilities.

Personalize your gifts:

Instead of generic "bridesmaid" items, opt for personalized gifts that reflect each individual's interests and tastes. Consider what you would typically buy them for their birthday or a holiday. This approach adds a thoughtful touch and ensures that your bridesmaids will actually use and cherish the gifts beyond your wedding day.

Start planning early:

Begin thinking about bridesmaid gifts as soon as your bridal party is confirmed. This gives you ample time to find thoughtful gifts without the pressure of last-minute decisions. Keep an eye out for deals and unique items that suit each person's interests.

Combine thoughtful and practical gifts:

When deciding on gifts, consider a mix of thoughtful and practical items. For example, you could include a personalized item, such as a monogrammed tote bag or a piece of jewelry with their initials, along with something they can use beyond the wedding, like a stylish clutch or a gift card to their favorite store.

Presentation and timing:

While the gifts themselves are important, don't forget to include a handwritten card expressing your gratitude. Traditionally, brides present their bridesmaids with gifts at the rehearsal dinner or a bridal luncheon. You can also opt for a non-traditional approach, such as giving the gifts at the bachelorette party or individually.

When to start shopping for bridesmaid gifts

While there are no set rules on when to start shopping for bridesmaids' gifts, it is generally recommended to start a month or two before the wedding. This will give you enough time to find thoughtful gifts without the stress of last-minute decisions. Here are some tips to help you with the timing of shopping for bridesmaids' gifts:

• Start Early: As with any wedding preparation, starting early is always a good idea. Aim to begin shopping at least two to three months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to browse, compare prices, and make informed decisions without feeling rushed.
• Consider Your Budget: Before you start shopping, discuss and allocate a portion of your wedding budget for bridesmaids' gifts. This will help you stay within your financial limits and guide your purchasing choices.
• Personalization Takes Time: If you plan to personalize or customize the gifts with monograms or engravings, keep in mind that these processes can take additional time. Allow for a buffer to ensure that the gifts are ready in time for the wedding.
• Online Shopping: If you plan to purchase gifts online, factor in shipping times and possible delays, especially if the items are coming from different places.
• Keep an Eye Out: Start thinking about gift ideas as soon as you begin wedding preparations. You may come across unique or discounted items that would be perfect for your bridesmaids while setting up your wedding registry or browsing online stores.
• Ask for Recommendations: If you're unsure where to start, don't hesitate to ask for suggestions from friends or family who have recently planned weddings. They may have great ideas or know reliable sources for bridesmaids' gifts.
• Consider Group Gifts: If you're purchasing gifts for multiple bridesmaids, consider buying some items in bulk or opting for group gifts. This can simplify the process and ensure consistency in the value of the gifts.
• Be Mindful of Deadlines: Keep track of other wedding-related deadlines and tasks. You don't want gift shopping to distract you from more time-sensitive aspects of wedding planning.
• Create a Timeline: Develop a timeline for gift shopping, including milestones for deciding on gift ideas, purchasing, and personalization. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't leave it until the last minute.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember to enjoy the process of selecting gifts for your bridesmaids. It's a chance to show your appreciation and celebrate the important role they will play in your wedding.

Gift ideas for bridesmaids

Your bridesmaids are there to support you on your big day, so it's a thoughtful gesture to give them a gift to show your appreciation. While you don't have to give them gifts, it is highly recommended and is a long-standing tradition. There are no set rules on how much to spend or when to start shopping, but it's best to give them something they can use and cherish for years to come. Here are some gift ideas to consider:

Personalised Items

Monogrammed or personalised items are a popular choice for bridesmaids' gifts. You can get almost anything personalised, from luxury throw blankets and phone cases to tumblers, tote bags, and clothing. These items are unique to each bridesmaid and can be used long after the wedding day.

Jewellery

Personalised jewellery is another great option. You can get items engraved with your bridesmaids' initials, or choose necklaces or bracelets with their birth flowers or a friendship pendant. Jewellery is something they can wear on the day and cherish for years to come.

Gift Boxes or Crates

If you want to give your bridesmaids a variety of smaller gifts, you can create a gift box or crate with a selection of items. This could include luxury candles, spa day gift cards, decadent treats, small bottles of wine or liquor, scented candles, essential oil diffusers, journals, or makeup. You can also include items that are personalised or related to your wedding, such as a button-down shirt with their monogram or a necklace with their initial.

Other Ideas

• Pashminas or shawls
• Earrings or other jewellery to wear on the day
• Clutch purses or makeup bags
• Robes for getting ready (though these may not be used after the wedding)
• Gift cards to their favourite stores or restaurants
• Self-care goodies or skincare products
• Picture frames or photo charms
• Books or astrological guides
• Luggage tags or travel accessories

Remember, you don't have to spend a fortune on bridesmaids' gifts. The average amount spent is around $$75-$150 per bridesmaid, but it's really the thought that counts. You can also give them a heartfelt handwritten card to express your gratitude.

How much to spend on bridesmaid gifts

There are no set rules on how much you should spend on bridesmaids' gifts, and it largely depends on your wedding budget. However, it is important to show your appreciation for your bridesmaids' time, effort and financial contributions to your wedding. As a general rule, it is recommended to spend between $75 to $150 per bridesmaid.

When deciding how much to spend, consider the costs your bridesmaids have incurred, such as plane tickets, hotel rooms, dresses, shoes, bridal shower expenses and hen night costs. You may also want to be a bit more extravagant with your gift for the maid of honour, as she typically has more responsibilities.

If you are unable to spend a lot on gifts, a handwritten thank-you card is a thoughtful way to express your gratitude. You could also pay for some of their wedding costs, such as dresses, accessories, hair and makeup, or accommodation near the venue.

When to give bridesmaid gifts

There are no set rules on when to give your bridesmaids their gifts, but there are a few popular options. Many brides choose to give their bridesmaids their gifts at the rehearsal dinner, where they can give a toast to their bridesmaids and present them with their gifts one by one. This is also a good time to give gifts if they are something the bridesmaids can wear during the wedding.

Another option is to give the gifts on the morning of the wedding while getting ready, especially if you want the photographer to capture the moment. You could also give the gifts at a bridal luncheon or a bachelorette party, or even schedule some one-on-one time with each bridesmaid shortly before the wedding. In the UK, it is customary to give gifts during speeches on the day of the wedding.

Frequently asked questions