Bridesmaids Gifts: How Much Should You Spend?

Bridesmaids are an important part of a wedding and play a significant role in making the day special for the bride. It is a common tradition to give gifts to the bridal party as a token of appreciation for their time, effort, and financial contribution. While there is no obligation to give gifts, it is a thoughtful way to express gratitude. The price range for bridesmaids' gifts typically falls between $50 to $150 per bridesmaid, with an average of $75 to $100. This amount can vary depending on the bride's budget and the number of bridesmaids. It is recommended to allocate around 10% of the total cost a bridesmaid incurs, which can include expenses such as dresses, shoes, jewelry, hair, makeup, and travel.

Average cost of bridesmaids' gifts

There are no set rules on how much to spend on bridesmaids' gifts, and ultimately, the amount you spend is up to you. However, there are some guidelines and recommendations to help you decide on a budget.

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that being a bridesmaid comes with financial costs, and it's a good idea to show your appreciation with a gift. The average cost for a bridesmaid to participate in a wedding is between $1200 and $1500, with outliers ranging from $100 to $3000. These costs include the dress, shoes, jewellery, hair, makeup, manicures, bachelorette/bridal parties, and travel expenses. Therefore, it is recommended that brides allocate a certain percentage of this cost for their bridesmaids' gifts. A good guideline is to spend around 10% of the total cost of each bridesmaid's expenses, which would be $120-$150 based on the average. For the maid of honour, it is recommended to spend 15-20% of her total expenses, as she tends to have more responsibilities.

Another guideline is to spend around what you would usually spend on a birthday or holiday gift for each person, with couples spending an average of $80 per person in the wedding party. However, this amount can vary depending on your budget and the number of bridesmaids. If you have a limited budget, it is recommended to spend a minimum of $50 per person.

Additionally, you may want to consider the type of wedding you are having. If you are having a small, low-key wedding, a small token of appreciation may be sufficient. However, if you are having a lavish destination wedding, you may want to thank your bridesmaids with a more generous gift to acknowledge the additional expenses they are incurring.

Finally, remember that the gift itself is also important. It should be something thoughtful and meaningful that your bridesmaids will use and cherish for years to come. It can be something personal and unique to each bridesmaid or something they can all use and enjoy together.

How to show appreciation without breaking the bank

Being a bridesmaid can be an expensive affair, with costs for dresses, shoes, jewellery, hair, makeup, manicures, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and travel expenses all adding up. So, it's no surprise that you want to give your bridesmaids a gift to show your appreciation for their time, effort, and financial contribution to your wedding. While you don't want to skimp on cost, there are ways to show your gratitude without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect gifts for your bridal party while being mindful of your budget:

Know the typical price range

Firstly, it's worth noting that there is no obligation to give bridesmaid gifts, and a heartfelt "thank you" and a handwritten card can go a long way. However, if you do choose to give gifts, the typical price range per bridesmaid is between $50 to $150, with an average of $75 to $100. This amount can be higher, around $80, or lower, around $50, depending on your budget and the number of bridesmaids you have.

Consider their expenses

Think about how much your bridesmaids are spending to be a part of your wedding. This includes not just the bachelorette party and bridal shower but also their attire, hair, makeup, and travel expenses. You don't need to match what they're spending, but you can use this as a guide to determine a reasonable budget for your gifts. Aim for around 10% of their total costs, and consider allocating a slightly higher budget for the maid of honor, who often takes on additional responsibilities.

Shop early

Start shopping for your bridesmaids' gifts at least a month or two before the wedding. This will give you time to find deals and ensure you're not making rushed decisions. Keep an eye out for gifts while setting up your wedding registry, and don't hesitate to pick up something suitable when you find it.

Personalize the gifts

Instead of buying something generic, take the time to find a gift that is personal to each bridesmaid. This could be something they can use during the wedding ceremony, such as jewellery or a stylish clutch, or it could be a non-wedding-related item that you know they will use and cherish. Ask yourself, "Is this something I would want?" to guide your decision-making.

Combine gifts with cost elimination

If you're looking to show your appreciation without spending a fortune, consider combining your gifts with cost elimination. For example, you could cover or subsidize certain expenses for your bridesmaids, such as their hair and makeup costs for the wedding or their attire, accessories, or accommodation costs. This not only relieves them of financial pressure but also serves as a meaningful gift.

Write thoughtful thank-you notes

Regardless of the cost of your gifts, don't underestimate the power of a thoughtfully written thank-you note. Take the time to express your gratitude for each bridesmaid's contribution to your wedding and let them know how much their support means to you. These words of love and appreciation will cost you nothing but will mean the world to your bridesmaids.

When to give gifts

One popular time to give a small gift to your bridesmaids is when you ""propose"" to them, asking them to be a part of your wedding party. This is usually done at the beginning of the wedding planning process and can be as simple as a thoughtful note.

Another option is to give your bridesmaids their gifts at the rehearsal dinner. Traditionally, the bride toasts her bridesmaids and presents them with their gifts individually. Alternatively, you could schedule a bridal luncheon and give your bridesmaids their gifts in a more intimate setting.

If you're giving your bridesmaids something to wear during the wedding, such as jewellery or a clutch, it's a good idea to present the gifts at the rehearsal dinner or bridal luncheon so they can wear them on the wedding day.

You could also choose to give your bridesmaids their gifts on the wedding day itself as a thank you for their participation and support. However, keep in mind that this is a busy day, and finding the time and space to safely hand out and store the gifts may be tricky.

Finally, you could wait and give your bridesmaids their gifts a few days after the wedding. This is a good option if the gifts are not meant to be used during the wedding, such as gift cards, self-care items, picture frames, or wine.

Remember, there are no strict rules on when to give bridesmaid gifts. The most important thing is to choose a time that feels right for you and your bridesmaids and to give gifts from your heart and within your budget.

Gift ideas

There are many options to choose from when it comes to bridesmaids' gifts. The price range varies, but the average cost is between $75 to $150 per bridesmaid. Here are some ideas for gifts within this price range:

Personalized Items

Monogrammed or personalized items are always a great choice for bridesmaids' gifts. This could include items such as:

• Jewelry (e.g. a necklace in their birthstone or favorite color)
• Champagne flutes or tumblers
• Robes or getting-ready shirts
• Makeup bags
• Beach bags or travel bags
• Clutches

Experiences

If you want to give your bridesmaids an experience instead of a physical item, you could treat them to:

• A spa treatment
• A thrilling excursion
• A night at a hotel
• A trip to their favorite nail salon or wine bar
• Tickets to a show or exhibit

Relaxation Kits

Relaxation kits are also a popular choice and can be personalized with a specific scent or theme for each bridesmaid. You could include items such as:

• Ibuprofen
• Vitamin C
• Gum
• Sports drink
• A granola bar

Other Ideas

• Mini bottles of champagne or their favorite beverage
• Beauty products (e.g. lip gloss or eyeshadow palette)
• Loungewear
• A candle in their favorite scent
• A book you know they'll love
• A gift card to their favorite coffee shop
• A selection of their favorite chocolates

How to factor gifts into your wedding budget

Gifts for your bridesmaids are an important part of your wedding budget. While they are not mandatory, they are a great way to show your appreciation for your bridesmaids' time, money, and emotional support. The price range for bridesmaids' gifts typically falls between $75 to $150 per bridesmaid, with an average of $80 per person. However, this amount can vary depending on your budget and the number of bridesmaids you have. Here are some tips on how to factor gifts into your wedding budget:

• Understand the costs incurred by your bridesmaids: Being a bridesmaid can be financially demanding, with costs including the dress, shoes, jewellery, hair, makeup, manicures, bachelorette/bridal party, and travel expenses. Understanding these costs will help you determine an appropriate gift budget.
• Calculate the total cost and allocate a percentage for gifts: Consider calculating the total amount you believe your bridesmaids will spend to be a part of your wedding. Then, allocate a percentage of that total as your gift budget. For example, a common suggestion is to spend 10% of the average cost of a bridesmaid's expenses on their gift.
• Consider your overall wedding budget: The price point of your bridesmaids' gifts should reflect your overall wedding budget. If you're having a small, intimate wedding, a smaller token of appreciation may be sufficient. However, if you're having a lavish destination wedding, you may want to thank your bridesmaids with a more generous gift to cover their additional expenses.
• Start shopping early: It's a good idea to start shopping for bridesmaids' gifts at least a month or two before the wedding. This will give you time to find meaningful gifts that your bridesmaids will cherish.
• Make it personal: Take the time to find a gift that is personal and meaningful to each bridesmaid. This could be something they can use during the wedding ceremony, such as jewellery or a stylish clutch, or something unrelated to the wedding that you know they would appreciate.
• Presentation and timing: Traditionally, brides present their bridesmaids with gifts at the rehearsal dinner or during a bridal luncheon. You can make a toast to your bridesmaids and present the gifts one by one, making it a memorable moment for everyone.

Frequently asked questions