Bridesmaid Proposal Gifts: When To Give And What To Consider

There are many ways to propose to your bridesmaids, and giving them gifts is one of the most popular methods. It is a thoughtful gesture to show your friends how much you care about them and how excited you are to have them in your bridal party. Although it is not mandatory, it is a good idea to give your bridesmaids proposal gifts within two or three months of getting engaged. This will give your bridesmaids ample time to prepare for all the pre-wedding festivities and the wedding itself.

There are many gift options available, from bouquets and bridesmaid gift boxes to customisable items. You can give them a self-care package, a bottle of their favourite wine, or even a plant. You can also opt for a simple and heartfelt letter or card.

Gifts to accompany the proposal

Asking your friends to be your bridesmaids is a thrilling milestone in your relationship. While a handwritten card or face-to-face conversation is a simple and polite way to recruit your wedding party, you can also opt for a fun bridesmaid proposal gift. From customised drinkware to jewellery, here are some gift ideas to accompany your proposal:

Gift Boxes

A fun way to propose to your bridesmaids is by sending them a box filled with goodies. You can either make your own or buy a pre-made one. Here are some ideas of what to include in your box:

• A small, meaningful gift, such as a piece of jewellery or a candle
• Personalised items, such as a wine glass or compact mirror with their name or initials
• Self-care items, such as bath bombs, soaps, or a sleep mask
• Sweet treats, such as chocolates or macarons
• A handwritten card or note expressing your admiration for them

Drinkware

Drinkware is a popular choice for bridesmaid proposal gifts, especially if you plan to pop open a bottle of bubbly to celebrate. Here are some ideas:

• A stemless champagne flute or wine tumbler with a personalised message or the recipient's name
• A set of mini champagne bottles with custom labels asking "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• Wine-flavoured gummies or champagne-themed bath bombs

Jewellery

Jewellery is a classic and thoughtful option for a bridesmaid proposal gift. Here are some ideas:

• A dainty beaded bracelet with a message such as "bridesmaid" or "I do crew"
• A love knot bracelet or necklace symbolising your friendship and commitment
• Birthstone jewellery, such as a necklace or earrings, personalised for each recipient

Other Ideas

If you're looking for something unique, here are some more creative bridesmaid proposal gift ideas:

• A silk robe with their name embroidered, perfect for getting ready on the wedding day
• A personalised puzzle with a hidden message asking them to be your bridesmaid
• A mini emergency kit or a compact mirror for their handbag
• A succulent or plant with a custom pot asking "Will you be my bridesmaid?"

When to give proposal gifts

Being a bridesmaid is a big deal and a significant responsibility, so it's essential to ask your bridal party in advance to give them ample time to prepare for the wedding. Most couples ask their wedding party within two or three months of getting engaged, and the average engagement lasts around 15 months. This gives your bridesmaids plenty of time to plan and budget for the wedding and all the pre-wedding festivities they will be attending.

If you want to make a grand gesture, you can host a brunch or a spa day and give each of your bridesmaids a custom gift box. You can also add a handwritten note expressing your gratitude and how much their presence at your wedding means to you. It's a thoughtful touch that will make your bridesmaids feel extra special.

If you're looking for creative ways to propose to your bridesmaids, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can go for a simple face-to-face conversation or a phone call, which is perfectly acceptable and gives your bridesmaids the space to consider their response. You can also add a heartfelt letter to your gift box or include it as the gift itself, paired with their favourite snack or dessert.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can create personalised gift boxes or choose from a variety of themed gifts, such as:

• "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?" candles
• Customised wine or champagne bottles with personalised labels
• Matching bridesmaid pyjamas or robes
• Personalised compact mirrors, tumblers, or jewellery
• Bridesmaid proposal puzzles or cards
• Gift boxes filled with self-care items, candles, or cosmetics

Remember, it's not about the cost of the gift but the thought and effort you put into it. Your bridesmaids will appreciate anything from a heartfelt card to a custom gift box, as long as it comes from the heart.

How much to spend on proposal gifts

While there is no requirement to give your bridesmaids proposal gifts, it is a popular and thoughtful gesture. The amount you spend on these gifts is entirely up to you and depends on your budget. A good rule of thumb is to spend around what you would typically spend on a birthday or holiday gift for each person. On average, couples spend around $80 per person, but this can vary depending on your financial situation. If you have a limited budget, a simple card or conversation might be more appropriate.

When deciding on a budget for proposal gifts, it is important to consider the costs that your bridesmaids will incur throughout the wedding process. These costs can include the dress, shoes, jewellery, hair, makeup, manicures, bachelorette/bridal party expenses, and travel expenses. It is recommended that you calculate the estimated costs for your bridesmaids and allocate around 10% of this amount for their gifts. For the maid of honour, you may want to consider spending 15-20% more, as they often have additional responsibilities.

• Personalized bridesmaid bags (toiletry bag, travel bag, beach bag)
• Mini bottles of champagne or their favourite beverage
• Beauty products (lip gloss, eyeshadow palette)
• Loungewear or beachwear
• A candle in their favourite scent
• Monogrammed champagne flutes
• Experience-based presents
• Jewellery
• A personalized note or card

Proposal gift ideas

When it comes to proposing to your bridesmaids, there are endless creative ways to pop the question. While a face-to-face conversation is always an option, many brides-to-be like to make the moment extra special with a thoughtful gift. Here are some unique and fun bridesmaid proposal gift ideas to inspire you:

Gift Ideas

• Customized Gifts: Personalize your proposal with items like wine glasses, wine labels, compact mirrors, tumblers, or jewellery cases featuring their names or wedding titles.
• Relaxation Gifts: Help them unwind with scented candles, bath bombs, or luxurious bathrobes.
• Sweet Treats: Edible gifts are always a hit. Opt for customized cookies, macarons, or chocolate with a special message.
• Self-Care Essentials: Pamper your bridesmaids with face masks, scented lotions, or bath salts.
• Practical Gifts: Think beyond the wedding day and offer useful items like tote bags, makeup pouches, or travel accessories.
• Sentimental Gifts: Compile a photo frame or a scrapbook with memorable pictures and notes.
• Matching Outfits: Get them excited for the big day with customized t-shirts, sweatshirts, pyjama sets, or denim jackets.
• Accessories: Gift them stylish accessories like hair clips, jewellery, or scarves that they can wear during the wedding festivities.
• Plants: For the plant lovers, send them a personalized plant pot or a succulent gift box.
• Puzzles: Create a custom puzzle with a hidden message or a photo of you both for a fun interactive proposal.
• Cards: Write a heartfelt message expressing your gratitude and excitement for them to be part of your special day.

Remember, the key is to choose something that speaks to your personality and considers your friends' tastes. Whether you go for a grand gesture or a simple gift, your bridesmaids will surely appreciate the thought and effort behind it.

Alternative ways to propose

There are many ways to propose to your bridesmaids, and it's a great way to kickstart the wedding festivities. Here are some alternative ways to propose to your bridesmaids:

• Gift a lasting symbol: One of the best ways to propose is by gifting something symbolic and permanent, like a piece of jewellery with their birthstone or custom engraving. This is a great opportunity to get together and celebrate.
• Statement shirts or robes: You can get creative and have their role or initials printed on a shirt, bathrobe, or pyjamas. These are practical gifts, especially for the morning of the wedding and getting-ready photos, and are a cute way for your bridesmaids to bond.
• Pamper package: Give your bridesmaids some 'me' time with a proposal bath bomb or an all-in-one spa kit they can enjoy at home. This can also be a fun and budget-friendly group activity during a casual get-together before the wedding.
• Long-distance proposal box: If your bridesmaids live far away, send them a proposal box with a personalised card and small gifts like a t-shirt, compact mirror, sleep mask, or customised champagne labels. This way, no one misses out on the fun, and it's a memorable way to pop the question.
• Personalised proposal: Tailor your proposal to each bridesmaid's personality and your relationship with them. For example, a night out at a cocktail bar with your best friend or a cute card for your cousin.
• Sweet treats: Send a bottle of bubbles or wedding-themed cookies with your proposal. Other edible ideas include pretzels ("I can't tie the knot without you!"), craft beers, cocktail kits, or personalised champagne or wine.
• Customised accessories: From tumblers and compact mirrors to makeup bags and keychains, there are many ways to propose with adorable and practical accessories. You can even include them in a complete bridesmaid proposal box!
• Plants: If you and your bridesmaids are plant lovers, gift them a personalised plant pot. It's a unique gift they can cherish and use as shelf decor.
• Proposal cards: Sometimes, a simple handwritten card with a thoughtful message is all you need. Express your gratitude and how much your bridesmaids mean to you. You can also include wedding details to make them feel like a VIP.

Frequently asked questions