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Gift
Ideas for the Wedding Party
By
Megan Mercer
Last Update:
October 16, 2005
It's customary to show
your gratitude to the wedding party by giving each member
a little gift. Let
them know you appreciate all the time, money and aggravation
they've spent helping to make your wedding day something
you'll all enjoy.
What to give the
bridesmaids...
Possible gifts include:
It is most
common to give all the bridesmaids the same gift,
but if you want you can individualize
a bit by including a monogram, or giving each woman
the same gift in a different color.
The Bridal Luncheon
Because bridesmaids usually wind up doing the lion's
share of pre-wedding work compared to groomsmen, you
may want to do a little extra to show your appreciation. Custom
once called for the bride to take her attendants out
for tea. Since not many people go out for tea
anymore, many brides treat their bridesmaids to lunch
or dinner several days before the wedding (referred
to as the bridal luncheon). If you're getting
married in the late afternoon or evening and are feeling
exceptionally calm, you can take your bridesmaids out
for a nice brunch the morning of the wedding.
What to give
the groomsmen...
Possible gifts include:
You know your friends and family
better than anyone else, so with a little thought you
should be able to find something for everyone. Don't
forget to get a little something for the children in
the wedding party (it's doubtful that a boy under fourteen
would appreciate a shaving kit).
Popular Alternatives
Nowadays
many couples are getting away from giving
the standard money clip
or pair of earrings, and
planning a fun group activity as a gift instead. This
gives everyone a chance to get together, get to know
each other, have fun,
and bond before the wedding!
Some couples choose
to have separate events for the girls
and the guys, while others have everyone
party together.
Here are a few suggestions of
activities you could plan...
Of course you know best when it
comes to what your friends and family are up for. Keep
in mind you are doing this as a gift to thank your
attendants
for
participating
in your wedding. Don't go to a theme park
just because you love roller coasters,
if your
maid of honor is afraid of heights! It won't
be a gift to her!