When it comes to thanking your bridal party for their involvement in your life and support for your marriage as lifelong friends, for most, there is no present that can truly express this gratitude. But of course, you must try. Purchasing a nice, heartfelt gift is one box on the bridal checklist for both you and your fiancé. So, think different. Innovative gifts have substance that tells the tale of happy and notable memories. These are not merely mementos of your appreciation; rather they are keepsakes that symbolize the friendship between you and your closest buddy. Here are some fabulous ideas to keep in mind when selecting your bridal party gifts.
For Your Bridesmaids
Skip the traditional necklace and pair of earrings that match the maid’s dress to wear during the ceremony with one of these more original, trendy gifts…
Charm Bracelet
Although still jewelry, a special charm bracelet can be a nice way to signify and personalize your relationship. Today, Pandora and Camilia (also made by Pandora) top the list. Popping up around the country are exclusive Pandora stores; however, you can find Pandora at almost every top jewelry store in the country. Pandora has wonderful sterling silver, gold and gorgeous glass and precious stone beads to customize each bracelet. What is nice about this idea is that there is virtually any type of bead to remind you of this person or memory with her. If you met in the Big Apple, buy the apple charm. If your Maid of Honor is your weekly shopping buddy, why not the handbag charm? The bracelet and charms can be expensive, so why not start with one or two. Plus, you can add additional beads—one for birthdays, and maybe even a shower gift down the line. Also, remember, there are a plethora of knock-off beads that are just as beautiful sold online and in-stores that fit these bracelets.
Custom Cookbook
Why not gather all of your favorite recipes and bind them in an attractive personal cookbook? This is a no-brainer and a very personal gesture for all of your maids. Make sure to include your family’s beloved dishes, too.
Personal Photo Album
Nothing says personal more than an heirloom-quality photo album that captures your individual relationship with this person. Now this might seem quite time consuming when you are already busy planning your wedding, but it may also be a nice stress reliever—and creative outlet. Gather all of the photos and knick-knacks that remind you of this person and relive the memories in an attention-grabbling scrapbook. Photos may date back to go grade school, college, your first job, or new roommate. Encapsulate this amazing friendship history from start to finish. Plus, remember, even if you do not want this to be your bridesmaid gift, maybe create it anyway. Your maids will love it!
For groomsmen, forgo the traditional barware, desk accessory, tie, watch or cuff links, for one of these top choices.
Cooler Filled with Their Favorite Beverages
Whether alcoholic or not, what guy wouldn’t like a cooler (preferably an Igloo) filled with their favorite party beverages. This is kind of a fun take on the groomsmen gift—and practical. Again, a certain beer or liquor might be their favorite or remind you of what you like to sip together. The keepsake here is the cooler!
Tickets to a National, Professional Sports Game
Another thoughtful idea, which may be out of the ordinary for a groomsmen gift, is to treat each person to a night watching his or her favorite sports team. This is such a guy’s guy gift, but one they will certainly be happy with. Along with the event, pay for all of the food and beverages that day or night. If you have two college buddies in the wedding, take both to the same event. If you have an uncle in the wedding who prefers golf, maybe hit the Open. The key here is not to turn it into a Bachelor Party by taking everyone, but make it an extraordinary day with you and this person. On a side note, this may be a costly option not suitable for many, but with proper planning ahead, it still might work.
Indoor Rock Climbing or Skydiving
Another atypical gift would be to enjoy a day with your pal indoor rock climbing or skydiving. Quite trendy today, this can be both a challenging and rewarding experience together. Just a thought. This can also suffice as a sporty Bachelor Party.
For Either Your Maids or Groomsmen
iPod Shuffle
For around $50 plus purchase of music, you can create an original list of songs that are reminiscent of you your extraordinary relationship with your maid or groomsman. You can include songs that signify your past, as well as include new songs that are popular today and get your booty rocking. Even if they already have an iPod, who wouldn’t want an additional Apple product to mix it up? There are so many albums that even take me back to my college days to fill up an entire shuffle.
Donation to a Favorite Charity
In lieu of a gift, a very “in” option today is to make a donation to your friend’s/relative’s favorite charity. If someone’s family experienced a cancer loss, there is The American Cancer Society. The list here is endless, so you may want to ask her/him upfront what makes the most relevance.
Today’s bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts are all about personalization. Take a few extra moments to really think about the significance and role of each individual in you wedding party—and consider some of the chic gift suggestions mentioned above.
