Bridesmaid Gift Guide: Thoughtful Ideas For Your Girls

Bridesmaids dedicate a lot of time, energy, and money to making a wedding day special, so it's customary for brides to give their bridesmaids gifts as tokens of appreciation. While there is no definitive 'right' way to do it, there are several traditions and approaches to gifting bridesmaids. Some brides give gifts when asking their friends to be bridesmaids, while others give gifts at the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, or on the wedding day. Bridesmaids' gifts can be something special for them to wear on the wedding day, such as jewellery, or another token of appreciation.

Gifts to wear on the wedding day

When it comes to choosing gifts for your bridesmaids to wear on the wedding day, there are a few different routes you can take. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Personalized jewellery: You can give each of your bridesmaids a piece of jewellery with their initials, or a special message engraved on it. This could be a necklace, bracelet, or even earrings. Not only will they cherish these items, but they can also serve as lovely reminders of your special day.
• Dressing gowns, robes, pyjamas, and slippers: These items offer a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. They will make your bridesmaids feel pampered and appreciated, and they can also be personalised with monograms or matching colours to add a sentimental touch.
• Spa or self-care kits: Treat your bridesmaids to a little extra indulgence with spa or self-care kits. Include items like scented candles, bath bombs, face masks, and cosy socks to help them relax and unwind before or after the wedding.
• Handwritten notes and memory books: A heartfelt, handwritten note expressing your gratitude and appreciation can be a very special gift for your bridesmaids. Pair it with a beautiful memory book where you can include shared memories, photos, and messages.
• Experience gifts: Instead of material items, consider giving your bridesmaids an experience such as a spa day, wine tasting, or a cooking class. These shared experiences will create lasting memories and strengthen the bond between you and your bridesmaids.

Gifts to be used at the wedding

There are many options for gifts to be used at the wedding that you can give to your bridesmaids. Here are some ideas:

Getting-Ready Outfits

Getting-ready outfits are a popular choice for bridesmaid gifts, and they can be customised with each bridesmaid's name or initials. These can include:

• Dressing gowns and robes
• Pyjamas
• Slippers
• Embroidered sweatshirts
• Embroidered fleece shorts
• Satin robes
• Joggers

Accessories

You could also gift your bridesmaids accessories that they can use while getting ready for the wedding, and even during the ceremony. These could include:

• Jewellery, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings
• Hair accessories, such as scrunchies and barrettes
• Makeup bags
• Makeup mirrors
• Tote bags
• Totes to hold other gifts
• Cosmetic bags
• Phone cases
• Hangers for their dresses
• Tumblers or coffee cups

Self-Care Kits

Self-care kits are another great option to help your bridesmaids relax and unwind before or after the wedding. These could include:

• Scented candles
• Bath bombs
• Face masks
• Hand and nail treatments
• Lip balm
• Eye masks
• Hair towels
• Skincare products
• Hand cream
• Perfume or perfume oil
• Nail polish

Gifts given at the rehearsal dinner

Personalised Gifts

• Tumblers or coffee cups with their initials
• Birthdate Co. Birthdate Candles with their names and birthdays
• Handwritten bracelets with their names
• Monogrammed tote bags
• Embroidered clothing, such as sweatshirts or pyjamas
• Custom-illustrated cards
• Makeup bags with their initials
• Jewellery boxes with their names engraved

Self-Care Gifts

• Spa kits, including bath bombs and face masks
• Silk pillowcases
• Beauty sets
• Hand cream or fragrance
• Eye masks
• A wellness journal

Sentimental Gifts

• Photo books with your favourite memories
• Trinket dishes with stamped phrases
• Birth flower necklaces
• Birthstone jewellery
• A ring dish

Practical Gifts

• Yoga mats
• Pashmina shawls
• Travel jewellery cases
• Water bottles
• A survival kit
• A compact mirror

Gifts given while getting ready

There are many options for gifts to give your bridesmaids while they are getting ready. Here are some ideas for gifts to give your bridesmaids on the day of the wedding:

• Matching bridal party socks for a fun getting-ready photo op.
• A silk sleep mask, perhaps with their wedding title embroidered on it, is a luxurious gift that will be especially appreciated for a destination wedding.
• A set of personalised tote bags, perhaps with the bridesmaid's initials, is a practical gift that can be used long after the wedding.
• A set of customised robes or pyjamas, perhaps with the bridesmaid's name embroidered on them, will make for great photo opportunities.
• A pair of cosy slippers that can be worn while getting ready, and later at the reception.
• A set of personalised hangers, perhaps with the bridesmaid's name or wedding role engraved on them, will ensure that the bridal party's dresses are displayed elegantly.
• A gift basket filled with coffee and chocolate is a great option for caffeine-loving companions.
• A set of monogrammed coffee mugs is a cute and practical gift.
• A set of matching bridal party tank tops, perhaps with the bridesmaid's role printed on them, will be a fun memento of the day.
• A set of customised canvas makeup bags is a chic gift that will fit with any wedding theme.
• A set of monogrammed beach towels is a great option for a beach-themed wedding.
• A set of foldable flats or pocket shoes will give the bridal party's feet a break from high heels.
• A set of personalised water bottles will keep the bridal party hydrated throughout the day.
• A set of matching bridal party cover-ups will be a fun addition to any bachelorette weekend.
• A set of customised beach tote bags will be a thoughtful and practical gift, especially for a beach wedding or bachelorette party.
• A set of personalised makeup bags filled with beauty minis or other small gifts.

Gifts given at the bridal shower

There are many different traditions and approaches when it comes to giving gifts to your bridesmaids, but there is no definitive 'right' way to do it. Here are some ideas for gifts given at the bridal shower:

• Robes or pyjamas: These can be given as gifts at the bridal shower and can also be worn while the bridal party is getting ready together before the wedding. This is a practical and thoughtful gift that will be used and appreciated.
• Jewellery: A piece of jewellery is a popular choice for a bridesmaid gift. You can give them something special to wear while walking down the aisle with you, such as a personalised necklace or bracelet. This can also be a heartfelt gift that will be cherished long after the wedding.
• Personalised gifts: Consider giving personalised gifts such as a cushion with a unique message for each bridesmaid. While this may not be something they can carry around during the wedding, it can be given at the bridal shower or rehearsal dinner so they can keep it safe and cherish it afterwards.
• Self-care goodies: If you want to give your bridesmaids something relaxing and indulgent, consider putting together self-care packages for them. These can include items such as bath bombs, scented candles, face masks, or other pampering treats.
• Sentimental keepsakes: Opt for gifts that will remind your bridesmaids of your special day together. This could be something like a monogrammed picture frame, a personalised wine glass, or a customised piece of jewellery.
• Practical items: Choose gifts that are both practical and stylish. For example, you could gift them clutches, makeup bags, or travel accessories that they can use on the wedding day and beyond.

Remember, when it comes to gifting your bridesmaids, it's the thought that counts. Choose gifts that show your appreciation and that you've considered their interests and preferences.

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