Gifting Etiquette: Bridesmaids And Groomsmen Gifts Explained

There are two perfect opportunities to give your wedding party their gifts. The first is at the rehearsal dinner, when everyone is together in one place, the atmosphere is relaxed, and you can speak with each attendant individually to thank them. The second is while getting ready before the wedding, as there is a lot of downtime, and it's an ideal time to give gifts and express your appreciation. If you're giving a gift to be worn while getting ready, like robes or button-down shirts, or a monetary gift, like covering the cost of hair and makeup, it's best to give these on the morning of the wedding.

Gifts at the rehearsal dinner

The rehearsal dinner is a great opportunity to give gifts to your wedding party, especially as everyone is together in one place. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it gives you a chance to speak with each person individually and thank them. It's also a good time to give gifts that are not related to the wedding, so they don't have to worry about keeping track of them on the big day.

If you're giving a gift that is to be worn while getting ready, or is wedding-specific, it's best to give these on the morning of the wedding. For example, gifts such as bridesmaid robes, pyjamas, or pashminas, or gifts for the groomsmen like cufflinks or toasting glasses. You don't want anyone to forget to bring theirs from home!

If the gift is large or not useful for the wedding day, it's best to give it at the rehearsal dinner, so the recipient doesn't have to find a place to keep it safe during the wedding.

If you're giving gifts to be used during the wedding, like jewellery, getting-ready robes, or dress socks, give these to your wedding party while you're all getting ready on the morning of the wedding. That way, no one will forget or lose them.

If you're giving gifts to your bridesmaids and groomsmen that are personalised, be sure to order them 3-6 months in advance to ensure they arrive on time and error-free.

Gifts while getting ready before the wedding

There are two perfect opportunities to give your wedding party their gifts. The first is at the rehearsal dinner, when everyone is together in a relaxed atmosphere, enjoying dinner and conversation. The other ideal time is while getting ready before the wedding, typically in the morning before the ceremony. This is because you have a lot of downtime while getting ready, so it's an ideal time to give gifts and tell your attendants how much they mean to you.

If you're giving a gift to be worn while getting ready, such as robes, button-down shirts, tank tops, or pyjamas, it's best to give these the morning of the wedding. The same goes for monetary gifts, such as covering the cost of hair and makeup, or gifts that will be used during the wedding, like pashminas, jewellery, clutch purses, cufflinks, or toasting glasses. That way, no one forgets to bring theirs from home.

If the gift is wedding-specific, it's best to give these gifts in the morning, too. Even the best gifts can be accidentally left at home, and you wouldn't want your wedding party to be without theirs, especially if there are photos involved.

If neither of these times works for you, pick a private moment before the ceremony. Some brides like to throw a bridesmaid brunch a week before the wedding to meet up, tackle any last-minute tasks, provide itineraries, and give their bridesmaid gifts.

Gifts to be worn on the wedding day

If you're looking for bridesmaids' and groomsmen's gifts to be worn on the wedding day, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Jewellery: You can gift your bridesmaids beautiful pieces of jewellery, such as earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, that complement their outfits and add a touch of sparkle to their ensembles. For the groomsmen, you could consider cufflinks, tie bars, or lapel pins that coordinate with their suits and add a touch of sophistication to their attire.
• Getting-ready outfits: Luxurious pyjama sets or robes are a great option for bridesmaids and groomsmen. They can be personalised with names, initials, or wedding roles, making them even more special. Not only will they look stylish and cohesive in their getting-ready outfits, but they'll also be comfortable while preparing for the big day.
• Accessories: For a fun and unique touch, consider gifting novelty dress socks to the groomsmen. Choose a theme that matches their interests, such as golf, space, food, music, or animals. For the bridesmaids, you could opt for personalised wooden hangers adorned with their initials, names, or wedding roles. These hangers will not only provide a special place to hang their formalwear but also ensure wrinkle-free attire for the big day.
• Hair accessories: Hair accessories, such as scrunchies, barrettes, or hair slides, can be a lovely gift for bridesmaids. They can be coordinated with their getting-ready outfits or even their wedding day hairstyles.
• Shoes: For a comfortable and stylish option, consider gifting the bridesmaids and groomsmen customised sneakers or shoes to change into during the wedding reception. This will not only give them a break from formal shoes but also add a touch of personality to their outfits.

Remember, it's a good idea to give these gifts to your wedding party while you're getting ready on the morning of the wedding. That way, they can wear and enjoy their gifts throughout the day, and you can capture some memorable photos of them showing off their new attire!

Gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen to use during the wedding weekend

There are many options for bridesmaids' and groomsmen's gifts to be used during the wedding weekend. The best gifts are those that your wedding party wouldn't typically buy for themselves but will use again and again.

Bridesmaids' Gifts

• A wellness journal to help them prioritize self-care.
• A personalized yoga mat for the meditation class you plan to calm nerves on the morning of the wedding.
• A wellness gift card to give them the gift of a spa day.
• A travel jewelry case to keep their accessories untangled and scratch-free.
• A pair of earrings to add extra glam to their wedding outfits.
• A set of eye masks to de-puff their eyes the morning after the wedding.
• A set of pajamas to be cozy in the night after the wedding.
• A personalized Stanley cup to keep them hydrated.
• A monogrammed tote bag to make your life easier—no gift wrapping is necessary!
• A ring dish, stamped with the phrases "love you a bunch" and "buds for life."

Groomsmen's Gifts

• A desktop putting green to keep them entertained at their desk.
• A monogrammed leather duffle bag.
• Personalized cufflinks.
• Engravable shoe horns.
• Custom bottle openers.
• Music-themed coasters made from upcycled records.
• State outline baseball caps for fun wedding photo ops.
• A portable Bluetooth speaker for their adventures.
• A classic decanter set.
• A camp-friendly French press for the coffee lovers.
• A personalized cooler bag to keep their drinks cold for hours.

Gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen to use outside of the wedding

Gifting your bridesmaids and groomsmen is a great way to show your appreciation for their support and participation in your wedding. While there are no strict rules about when to give gifts, many couples choose to present them at the rehearsal dinner or on the morning of the wedding. Here are some gift ideas for your bridesmaids and groomsmen that they can use outside of the wedding:

Gifts for the bridesmaids:

• Birthdate pendant necklace: These necklaces are inspired by astrology and numerology and feature four stones that bring good luck and energy to the wearer.
• Virtual experiences: Gift an online class led by experts in various fields, such as watercolour painting, astrology chart reading, or wine tasting.
• Personalized yoga mat: A custom yoga mat is a unique and unexpected gift, perfect for the wellness-focused bridesmaid.
• Wellness journal: Help your bridesmaids prioritise self-care with a journal to track goals, express gratitude, and reflect.
• Personalised eye cream: A luxury skincare product, such as an engraved eye cream, is a practical and indulgent gift.
• Custom-illustrated card: A custom illustration of you and your bridesmaid is a heartfelt and memorable gift.
• Personalised pyjamas: Comfy and personalised pyjamas are perfect for the morning of the wedding and can be enjoyed long after.
• Jewellery: Birth flower necklaces or custom tennis bracelets are stylish and can be worn every day.
• Coffee-themed gift set: For the coffee lover, a set of artisanal coffee and chocolate is a delightful treat.
• Portable Bluetooth speaker: A compact and waterproof speaker will be their ticket to adding a personal soundtrack to any adventure.

Gifts for the groomsmen:

• Tumbler set: A high-quality custom tumbler will keep their drinks hot or cold and is perfect for everyday use.
• Nespresso machine: This portable coffee machine will keep your groomsmen energised and refreshed anytime, anywhere.
• Beer cap map: A unique gift, these maps can be of any U.S. state and will be a fun way for your groomsmen to track their beer-tasting adventures.
• Leather gift set: A premium leather gift set, including a wallet, passport case, cardholder, and keychain, is a classy and practical choice.
• Grilling tools: For the grill master, a set of shiny new stainless steel barbecue tools will be much appreciated.
• Cocktail-flavoured lip balms: These uniquely flavoured lip balms add a playful twist to their grooming routine.
• Portable French press: For the coffee enthusiast, a fancy French press will ensure they can enjoy a gourmet cup of coffee anywhere, even on outdoor adventures.
• Electric guitar model building kit: Unleash your groomsmen's inner rockstar with this creative and engaging hands-on building kit.
• Virtual mixology class: For the groomsman who has everything, an experiential gift like a virtual gin mixology class will be a fun and unique experience.

Frequently asked questions