We are asked for advice on many things throughout a wedding planning process, but questions about gifts for wedding party members is something that comes up really often. Our clients are concerned about how to show the immense gratitude they feel to their closest friends and family members who are supporting them during such an important time in their lives.
“How much should I spend?” “When do I hand out the gifts?” “Who needs a gift and who doesn’t?”
It can all feel pretty confusing and overwhelming, so we thought it might be helpful to provide some time-tested advice on the wedding party gifting process:
Why To Give
A wedding is the culmination of a journey and the beginning of a new one so it’s the perfect time to thank the people who’ve supported you throughout. You wouldn’t be where you are without your friends’ honest advice and support as you navigate through life and relationships. We don’t say thank-you often enough to those who have watched out for us so take this chance to offer each of them a small token of appreciation.
How Much to Spend
Pour your heart out into each present but you don’t have to empty your wallet. Review your budget and see how much you can allocate for presents. Being tight on finances isn’t a problem these days as several shops and brands now offer quality gifts you can offer to your groomsmen and bridesmaids without breaking the bank. Ask around your friends, inquire at neighborhood shops or go online.
If you really want to know how much other couples usually spend, average spending for bridesmaids is around $75-$150 each and $30-$50 for every groomsman. Keep in mind it’s not the price tag that matters most but the meaning behind them.
One meaningful gift is much more appreciated than several small ones of lesser quality. There’s no rule as to how many gifts you should give which is good news. Get creative!
When to Give
Giving out wedding party gifts is done traditionally during the rehearsal dinner so you can honor them in the presence of other friends and family. If you want to keep it more private, arrange for another moment with your entourage, so you can give your most heartfelt messages as you present the gifts.
Begin thinking about what to give several months ahead. You can then be keeping an eye out for sales in store or online. Spend a little time every few days looking around. The last 2 months of the wedding planning process can be quite hectic, and you don’t want gift-giving to send you over the edge! Let this be one of the fun parts of the process.
What to Give
If you’re looking for something sentimental, there are several gift options you can customize for each wedding party member or even make something yourself (or purchase something that looks hand-made—the best of both world!). Is your entourage composed of childhood friends? Think about giving your bridesmaids an updated version of the friendship bracelets you had as kids, or your groomsmen a travel bag or wallet with the emblem of your high school team.
There is no rule on uniformity: you can even give each person something that symbolizes their personality and how they’ve made an impact on your life.
No matter what you decide to give your wedding party, just make sure you are giving from the heart, and you cannot go wrong!
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