The Etiquette of Showing Appreciation for Your Wedding Party

Wedding gift etiquette isn’t just about what your guests should give you and when they should give it to you. The bride and groom also have the responsibility to thank those who have helped them make their special day happen. Take a break from making choices that are all about you and go shopping for gifts to thank and delight your bridesmaids and groomsmen.

If your fiancé needs a helping hand or some ideas when it comes to wedding etiquette, join him as he shops for his groomsmen. Try to make a date of it by reminiscing about the reasons your bridesmaids and groomsmen are special to you.

Gifts Etiquette 101

1. Traditionally, you should get the same gift for each of your bridesmaids and the same gift for each of your groomsmen. If you’d like to break the mold, get them each something different, but be sure to say in the same price range and general gift category.
   
2. Look into having gifts personalized. However, avoid the typical keepsake gifts you see in personalization stores. Instead, really think about gifts your attendants will appreciate and treasure or think outside the box. For example, having a beach wedding? Get flip flops personalized and include some sun screen in a beach gift basket.
   
3. Let the theme and tone of your wedding guide you as you choose gifts. If your wedding will be formal, you may want to give formal keepsakes. If your wedding is casual and funky, be more creative.
   
4. Set your budget according to the amount of money and effort your attendants are spending to be part of your wedding. You shouldn’t match the amount, but you should let it guide you. For example, if a bridesmaid is spending $500 to be part of your wedding, you should be looking for gifts with monetary and sentimental value.
   
5. Consider getting something extra special for the maid or matron of honor and the best man. You may choose additional gifts or gifts in a higher price range for these special members of your wedding party.
   
6. Attendant gifts are traditionally distributed during the rehearsal dinner. While this gives you plenty of time to shop, you may want to start shopping early so you have plenty of time to choose the perfect items or have them personalized. 

Bridesmaid and Groomsmen Gift Ideas

• For memorable gifts, shop in local boutiques or look for handmade one-of-a-kind items.
• Put together themed gift baskets with small gifts, candy and spa products.
  
• Have flasks and shot glasses engraved for the groomsmen.
  
• Gift your bridesmaids gift certificates to get their nails or hair done.
  
• Treat everyone to a night of karaoke give them small, empty photo albums to fill with pictures from the evening.
  
• Take your bridesmaids on a brunch picnic and give them each a picnic blanket to keep.
  
• Write a handwritten letter for each attendant, sharing stories of your friendship and history together.
  
• Burn a CD of the music you’ve enjoyed with your bridesmaids over the past few years. Include a gift certificate or small gift with it.
  
• Give groomsmen gift certificates for a barber shop that offers shave, facial and massage services.
  

Check Out Exchanging & Returning Wedding Gifts
Check Out Ideas for Groomsmen Gifts
Check Out an Easy Guide to Bridesmaid Gifts