Tips for Selecting Bridal Party Gifts

Finding that perfect gift for your bridesmaid or ring bearer can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’d like to say thank you to your wedding party or celebrate the newlyweds, a little thought and effort go a long way to express just the right feeling of warmth and happiness. Check out these tips and make selecting the right presents a breeze.

Are you planning a tropical wedding? Then consider giving flip flops, beach bag totes and other summer accessories. Will you have a traditional ceremony? Think about choosing classic pearl necklaces, silver pocket watches or leather flasks. Make your gifts appropriate to the tone of your wedding so that the bridal party leaves with tokens that remind them of the big day.

Think about the different personalities that make up your wedding party. For groomsmen who are laid back, glass tankards or silver-plated poker sets make fun gifts. Parents of the bride and groom will cherish fun or classic picture frames with a wedding photo inside. If your flower girl loves glitz and glamour, choose a pendant and earring set that she can enjoy day after day. Remember who you are buying for to make expressing your appreciation that much easier.

For a special touch, provide gifts that are personalized so that your family or friends will think of your big event every time they see them. From monogrammed photo albums for the bride and groom to a t-shirt with the ring bearer’s name on it or engraved money clips for the groomsmen, personalized presents tell the recipient, “we were thinking of you.” You can also turn your present into a memento by adding wording such as “Smith Wedding 2010” or “Just Married—Tina and Rob Smith.”

Make It Memorable

Have a little fun in picking out your gifts and the wedding party is sure to notice. From crayon purses to hot pink and zebra striped bags, these bridal presents showcase a playful and memorable spirit. For more refined options, consider a shadow box frame with a wedding invitation inside, or a pearl-handled cake serving set. Be thoughtful and give them something that they will never forget!

If you are still having a hard time selecting the right gifts, don’t be afraid to ask for opinions. Take a time out, get some breathing room and relax—help is on its way! You have a whole network of people ready to help out and give some input, so don’t hesitate to use it. When all else fails, keep it simple and seek some support from family and friends.

It may sound cliché, but it really is the thought that counts. Your friends and family know how much time and effort you have put into planning this wedding and selecting their gifts, so don’t fret if the perfect present doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would. And by the same token, don t pay too much attention to price tags. Again, your family and friends know how expensive it can be to plan a wedding. No one is expecting lavish or ornate gifts. Keep it simple and thoughtful, and you can t go wrong. Celebrating the union of two people and sharing that sentiment with loved ones is what really counts, right?

Providing tokens of love and gratitude for your wedding party can be a fun and painless process. Memorable, thoughtful gifts that are also practical will show your sincerity and help your loved ones share in this unique experience. Remember to ask for help when you need it, and go bold in your purchasing decisions to give unforgettable presents that will remind everyone of this once in a lifetime event.