April 3, 3019

How many lucky ladies/gents will you ask to stand by you on your wedding day? Well the more you pick, the more it costs in the end. The first “gift” you have to purchase is what you give to your friends/family as you ask them to be in your wedding party. That does not necessarily have to be a gift but if you do want to ask in a cute way, that typically means spending money on a personalized gift, or at a minimum a card.

We’ve compiled a list of gifts to help you visualize some of the ways you’ll have to spend money, but also some fun gift ideas to make your ladies feel special!

Bouquets

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This is a must for every wedding. Whether it’s a bouquet or non-traditional item to hold, your ladies will need something in their hands when they walk down the aisle and while they’re taking pictures. Some of the non-traditional options are lanterns, fans and umbrellas/parasols.

Hair/Makeup

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This is a very controversial gift; does the bride or bridesmaids pay? We feel it’s nice if you can pay for their hair/makeup if you’re requiring them get it done. If you’re not paying the bill we only think it’s fair that you don’t require them to get hair/makeup on your wedding day. Give them the option to only get their hair/makeup done if they’re comfortable with the cost.

Thank You Notes/Cards

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While this is a very insignificant expense, we want everyone to remember to thank your bridesmaids for being part of your special day. They incur a lot of costs throughout the process (shower gifts, bachelorette party, dresses, etc.) and the least you can do is write a meaningful thank you to show them how much you appreciate them.

Getting Ready Outfits

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From pajamas to oversized shirts to robes, the options are endless! If you want your bridesmaids to match while they get ready in the morning, purchasing them a cohesive outfit is a nice touch. Many times brides will surprise their people with this gift at either the rehearsal dinner or the morning of the wedding.

Shoes

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If you want your bridesmaids to wear a specific shoe that is not their typical style, we recommend purchasing these for your bridesmaids. We see it go both ways but asking them to purchase a unique set of shoes like a bold color or cowboy boots, consider gifting that in advance of the wedding.

Shawls/Winter Wear

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Shawls, pashminas, matching coats and scarfs – adorable accessories to warm up your ladies during the cold months of the year. Are you going to require your ladies to match? Think about gifting them their winter wear!

Hair Pieces

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We actually do not see many bridesmaids with something in their hair but if you do want them to rock a flower crown or wear an extra accessory, that should be a cost you cover because you don’t “need” them, it’s more of a fashion piece.

Earrings/Jewelry

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This is one of the most common gifts to give to your bridesmaids. From earrings to necklaces to custom jewelry holders, you’re bound to find something all of your ladies would love that will match their dresses.

Teak and Twine

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This is an adorable box you can order for your friends/family standing up next to you on your wedding day. If you have a destination wedding, it’s an easy thing to ship directly to your hotel so you don’t have to travel with it. There are many different selections to choose from so browse their website and see what speaks to you!

Clutch/Bag

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Do you want everyone to match as they travel around to take pictures? Consider gifting them a cute clutch/bag so they can keep their small personal belongings (phone, lipstick, ID, tissues, etc.) around with them!

Personalized Hangers

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When you line all the dresses up in the morning, it looks very nice to have the hangers match. This is something the ladies can use after their wedding as well!

Large Bags/Makeup Cases

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Will your bridesmaids be carrying a lot from location to location? For example, are you having everyone meet at your hotel but you’re getting hair/makeup done at the venue? Consider giving them large bags/totes or makeup bags to carry their personal belongings in.

Sunglasses

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Are you having a summer wedding? These glasses are practical and provide a cute photo op while traveling around the city! You can either get plastic sunglasses with a customized word on the side OR a nice pair that they will actually wear again after the big day, like the ones above!

Champagne/Alcohol of their liking

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We love a nice glass of champagne or a fancy cocktail and we’re sure at least some of your bridesmaids do as well. If you know what they love to drink, gift them a nice bottle of their favorite drink! If you’re not sure what they like, consider a bottle of champagne because it’s not offensive and it’s a popular symbol of a celebration.

Champagne Flutes/Glasses

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Getting personalized champagne flutes or drink glasses is a common item to include when asking your bridesmaids to stand by you on your big day. Stick them next to a nice bottle of champagne or their favorite liquor (like in the idea above!) and they’ll be sure to open it with a smile! And if you remind them to bring it on wedding day, you’ll be able to get some cute photo ops in the morning.

Tumblers/Coffee Mugs

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There are so many places to buy personalized tumblers and coffee mugs you just have to do a quick Etsy search! They don’t have to be personalized though, a cute floral pattern like the picture on the right is a great idea because it’s very practical and women may actually feel more comfortable carrying them around.

Long Gloves

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Are you throwing a 1920’s themed wedding? Consider gifting your ladies long gloves to go along with the theme!

We look forward to sharing more tips and advice with you, thanks for following along with our blog!

-Ohana Events