A Gift to Remember
Kristen Waghorne
Want to thank your bridesmaids with a meaningful gift? The bride’s tradition of honoring her bridesmaids is intended to be a token of appreciation of their participation in the wedding. These special women deserve a gift that reflects the bride’s gratitude and friendship. A number of brides are approaching this gift-giving ritual with creative alternatives to the generic bridesmaid’s gifts of the past. If you haven’t decided on what to give, let this guide direct you to some fun and unusual gifts that the bridesmaids will surely love.
Although the bridesmaids’ gifts are generally given at the rehearsal dinner or bridesmaid’s luncheon, it’s best to begin looking for the ideal present as soon as possible. As a rule, the bride should purchase the gifts by at least a month before the wedding to avoid any last-minute shopping mishaps. Remember, any engraved items might also take time to design, so get started early!
Every bride and every wedding is different. Depending on your budget, and the style of the wedding, the price range on bridesmaid’s gifts will vary. There are brides that find great deals and spend $25 and brides who spend over $100 per gift. Stay within your budget. With a little shopping perseverance, you can find the perfect gift at the perfect price.
*While shopping, don’t forget about the flower girl or junior bridesmaids. Purchase age-appropriate gifts for these essential members of the wedding party. You may also present small tokens to the shower hostesses in appreciation of their efforts as well.
Gift-Giving Tips
Every former bridesmaid will attest that the best gift is to provide financial assistance with the purchase of the dress or travel arrangements. However, a much more memorable gift is one that reflects thought and creativity.
Relax and Rejuvenate
Silk Pajamas or Robe
o You should already know the sizes of the bridesmaids after the fittings for the wedding attire. Just in case, ask for gift receipts so they can be exchanged.
Spa Day
o Many spas now offer packages for wedding parties. Plan ahead and schedule an afternoon of massages and manicures for you and the girls!
Make a Gift Basket
o Purchase a large basket from your local craft store and fill it with goodies for your extraordinary attendants.
o Essential items: tasty chocolates, mineral water, green tea, bath salts, body lotion, spa mittens, and an eye pillow.
o Personalize each basket with the bridesmaid’s favorite color or scent.
Entertain Yourself
“101 Uses for a Bridesmaid’s Dress”
o This is a fun and practical book by Cindy Walker that will provide entertainment and good advice for your bridesmaids.
Put on Your Dancing Shoes!
o In the months leading up to the wedding, purchase dance lessons for you and the bridesmaids. Not only will the guests be impressed, it will also give all the girls a chance to bond before the big day.
A Night at the Movies
o A gift that will never be returned! Everyone loves the movies, so give your bridesmaid’s gift certificates to the local movie theatre. Don’t forget about the popcorn!
Handmade With Love
Personalized Quilts
- Like to sew? Quilts reflect the generous time and energy of their maker.
- Begin by selecting fabric that represents the personality or favorite colors of each attendant.
- Scan photographs of each bridesmaid, the bride, and friends on the computer and print onto iron-on fabric paper. These can easily be sewn into the patchwork of the quilt for a unique and deeply personal gift.
Work with your Hands
- Many cities have pottery studios available to the public for ceramics classes.
- The bride and groom can, together, create ceramic bowls, cups, or vases as gifts for their attendants.
Picture Perfect
- Frame a photograph of each individual bridesmaid with the bride.
- Use beads, fabric, buttons, sequins, or other decorations to create a unique picture frame for the bridesmaid to cherish for years.
Sparkle and Shine
Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend…
- When all else fails-get them jewelry! Earrings or a necklace to wear with the bridesmaid’s dress on the wedding day is always a welcome gift.
- You should make an attempt to purchase jewelry they will be able to wear again—unlike the bridesmaid’s dress!
Crazy for Engraving!
- A silver jewelry box, compact, or key chain are practical items that every girl can use.
- Personalize these items with each bridesmaid’s name or initial.
Outdoor Life
Make Camp
- Nature lovers will enjoy a planned camping trip. Keep attuned to the changing seasons and plan an overnight camp-out.
- Include a delicious prepared picnic and bring along marshmallows to roast by the fire.
By Land or By Sea
o If your budget allows it, take your bridesmaids on a weekend getaway to the beach.
o Reserve a block of rooms in South Beach and treat your special friends to some fun in the sun!
Take Me Out to the Ballgame!
- It’s not just for men anymore; many women would love an outing to a sporting event.
- Arrange tickets to a game of your local professional or college sports team.
Nightlife
Wine and Dine
- Rent a limousine and pick up each bridesmaid from her home for a delicious dinner at a fantastic restaurant
- Or, prepare a gourmet meal at your home and invite the girls over for dinner.
- Purchase each woman a bottle of wine that you feel represents her personality (i.e. bold and rich; fruity and light) along with individualized wine trinkets for the wine glasses.
Theatre
- Check your local listings for any Broadway plays and arrange for good seats.
- After the play, take the bridesmaids out for coffee and dessert.
Individual Gifts
It is not required to buy the same gift for every bridesmaid. Celebrate the unique personality of each woman by giving her something she can really enjoy!
- Movie buff? Buy her some of your favorite videos or DVD’s from the local video store.
- Loves to cook? Give her a cute apron or new cookbook.
- Fashionista? A gift certificate to the hottest store will make her day!
- Fitness guru? Workout clothes or a new portable radio is perfect!
- Animal lover? Try a low maintenance pet, like aquarium fish.
- Golf Pro? Monogrammed golf balls are a great gift for any golfer!
The bride, after taking the time to spend a few moments with each bridesmaid to inquire about her recent interest, will definitely get inspired to buy the perfect gift. By using a little imagination, any bride can truly impress her attendants with a distinctive gift they will always remember.