Thoughtful Bridesmaid Gifts: Personalized Presents For Your Girls

Bridesmaids are there to support the happy couple throughout the entire wedding planning journey, so it's customary to give them a gift as a token of appreciation. While it's not obligatory, it is highly recommended. Gifts can be given at any point during the wedding week, but it's best not to leave it until the day of the wedding. Gifts can be practical, fun, or a little bit of both.

Gifts to wear on the wedding day

There are many things to consider when deciding what to buy your bridesmaids as gifts to wear on the wedding day. Here are some ideas to ensure your bridal party feels appreciated and looks fabulous:

• Bridesmaid Dresses: This is an obvious but important choice. Discuss budgets openly with your bridal party and start looking for dresses at least seven to eight months before the wedding. Ensure your bridesmaids try on dresses and are happy with the style and colour.
• Robes or Button-Down Shirts: Your bridesmaids will need something comfortable to wear while getting their hair and makeup done. A robe or button-down shirt is ideal as it can be easily removed without ruining their hair and makeup.
• Shoes: Your bridesmaids will need comfortable shoes for the ceremony and reception. It is a good idea to break in the shoes before the wedding day to avoid blisters. You could also provide a pair of flats or slippers for your bridesmaids to change into when they need to give their feet a rest.
• Jewellery and Accessories: Provide your bridesmaids with jewellery and hair accessories that complement their outfits. This could include earrings, necklaces, bracelets, hairpins, clips, or combs.
• Undergarments: Discuss with your bridesmaids whether they will need special undergarments, such as a specific type of bra or shapewear, to wear under their dresses.
• Clutch or Small Bag: A small bag will be useful for your bridesmaids to carry essential items such as their phone, lipstick, and other touch-up items.
• Dancing Shoes: If your bridesmaids don't want to wear heels all night, provide them with a comfortable pair of dancing shoes so they can party the night away.
• Change of Clothes: If there is an after-party, your bridesmaids may want to change into something more comfortable. Provide them with an outfit or suggest a dress code so they can join in the continued celebrations.

Remember to discuss budgets and styles with your bridesmaids to ensure they feel comfortable and happy with their wedding-day attire.

Gifts to be used on the wedding day

There are many options for gifts to be used on the wedding day that you can give to your bridesmaids. Here are some ideas to show your appreciation and make them feel special:

Practical Gifts

These are gifts that your bridesmaids can use not just on the wedding day but also long after the wedding. Practical gifts are a great way to show your bridal party how much you appreciate their support and contributions. Here are some ideas:

• A tumbler to keep them hydrated throughout the day and even after.
• A hand cream or fragrance to help them feel refreshed.
• Their favourite snacks to keep them energised.
• Small bottles of bug spray or sunscreen if your wedding is outdoors or at a beach.

Customised Gifts

Customised gifts add a unique and personal touch to your bridal party gifts. They can be used to make your bridesmaids feel extra special and appreciated. Here are some ideas:

• Customised jewellery with their initials or names.
• A chic clutch that they can use again and again.
• A personalised phone case or a phone pouch attachment.
• A custom candle with their birthdate, name, custom scent, zodiac details, and more.

Beauty Gifts

Beauty gifts are a great way to treat your bridesmaids and help them feel pampered. These gifts can be used before, during, and after the wedding. Here are some ideas:

• Lipstick for touch-ups throughout the day.
• A rollerball perfume that can be easily carried in a purse.
• An ultra-luxe hand cream for a bit of self-care.
• Makeup remover wipes for any last-minute touch-ups.

Gift Bags

Instead of giving one special gift, you can create custom gift bags with a variety of smaller gifts. This allows you to include a range of items that your bridesmaids can use on the wedding day and beyond. Here are some ideas for items to include in your gift bags:

• A mini steamer to ensure their outfits are wrinkle-free.
• A small clutch or bag to carry essentials during the reception.
• A compact mirror for touch-ups.
• Hair accessories such as barrettes, bobby pins, or hair ties.
• A mini emergency kit with items like clear nail polish, pain relievers, and breath mints.

Gifts to be given at the rehearsal dinner

The rehearsal dinner is a special moment and a great opportunity for brides to get to know the bride's close friends and family better. It is also a chance to give your bridesmaids gifts as a token of your appreciation. Here are some gift ideas to give to your bridesmaids at the rehearsal dinner:

• Personalized items: Custom embroidered pajamas, monogrammed tote bags, or birthstone jewellery are all great options. You can also consider gifting each bridesmaid a different item based on their likes and personality.
• Unforgettable virtual experience: Consider gifting an online class led by experts in various areas, such as watercolour painting, astrology chart reading, or wine tasting. All the supplies are shipped in advance, so they just need to log on and enjoy.
• Wellness journal: A wellness journal, such as the one from Papier, can help your bridesmaids track their goals, jot down feelings, and express gratitude. You can customise the covers with each person's name to make it even more meaningful.
• Custom-illustrated card: A custom illustration of you and each of your bridesmaids is a fun and sentimental gift. Dozens of hairstyles, dress designs, and skin tones are available to create a cartoon of each of your loved ones.
• Spa day gift card: Give the gift of relaxation with a spa day gift card. Spafinder digital gift cards are accepted at thousands of spas and salons across the US, so your bridesmaids can find an oasis no matter where they are.
• Travel jewellery case: A jewellery case, such as the one from Mark & Graham, is a practical gift that will keep their accessories organised and scratch-free. You can even have the lid foil debossed with their name.

Remember, when choosing gifts for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider their likes and personalities. You can also add a personal touch, such as customisation or a handwritten note, to show your appreciation.

Gifts to be given before the wedding

There are many options for bridesmaids' gifts to be given before the wedding. Here are some ideas:

Practical Gifts

• A tumbler to keep them hydrated throughout the wedding weekend.
• A hand cream or fragrance to help them feel refreshed.
• Small bottles of bug spray or sunscreen for a beach wedding.
• Long-lasting nail polish.
• A travel jewellery case.
• A personalised water bottle.

Personalised Gifts

• Monogrammed tote bags.
• Birthstone jewellery.
• Custom-embroidered sweatshirts or pyjamas.
• A wellness journal.
• A custom illustration.

Gift Boxes

• A self-care package with a face mask, bath soak, or eye mask.
• A coffee-themed gift box with coffee, chocolate, and a mug.
• A spa gift card.

Gifts to be given after the wedding

There are many options for gifts to be given to your bridesmaids after your wedding. Here are some ideas:

Practical Gifts

Practical gifts are always a good idea as your bridal party can use them long after the wedding. Some ideas include a tumbler or water bottle to keep them hydrated, a hand cream or fragrance to feel refreshed, or a snack to fuel them throughout the day. If your wedding is outdoors, consider small bottles of bug spray or sunscreen. A travel jewellery case is another thoughtful gift, ensuring their accessories stay untangled and scratch-free.

Personalised Items

Personalised items are a wonderful way to show your bridal party how much you appreciate them. You could gift them custom-embroidered pyjamas, monogrammed tote bags, or birthstone jewellery. Other ideas include custom-painted mini canvases, personalised yoga mats, or a wellness journal with their name on the cover.

Beauty Gifts

Beauty gifts are a great choice as they can be used before, during, and after the wedding. A lipstick is perfect for touch-ups, while a rollerball perfume can be easily carried in a purse. An ultra-luxe hand cream will be a form of self-care during a busy weekend of festivities. Other ideas include eye masks, nail polish, or a versatile beauty balm that can be applied to cheeks and lips.

Indulgent Treats

Indulge your bridal party's sweet tooth with some celebratory treats. Ideas include champagne-flavoured gummy bears, rosé candy, or pink champagne cake bites. Less sophisticated options, such as strawberry Kit-Kats, can also be a welcome addition to any gift bag.

Splurge-worthy Gifts

For a truly special gift, consider a nameplate necklace with their name in lab-grown diamonds, or a pair of Beats Solo3 Headphones. A set of Current Body RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device and Jennifer Fisher Small Puffy Heart Stud Earrings will also show your bridal party how important they are to you.

Frequently asked questions