With wedding season upon us, it means that thousands of couples are scrambling to put last minute touches on their nuptials, and even more are just starting the planning process. One detail that should not be overlooked is gifts for your bridesmaids and groomsmen. After all, these are the friends that first heard the big news, that excitedly brainstormed ideas, came along with you as you tackled various stages of the planning process and lifted your spirits when you found yourself overwhelmed. Express your gratitude with unique, fun gifts that will serve as souvenirs from this exciting time for years to come.

Take their tastes into account; if your pals are more outdoorsy than prim, don’t give them a spa kit that they are unlikely to use. Give your bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts you know will match their preferences rather than your own. There are retailers, like Groom Stand, will allow you to browse by personality and, if you aren’t finding any options that speak to you among normal industry vendors, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path to explore Etsy, Amazon or a local shop. Ideally, the item should be something that constructively fits into the receiver’s lifestyle, and yet is an indulgence that they otherwise would not treat themselves to. Don’t buy the myth that you have to give the same gift to each person; in fact, mixing up the type of presents you hand out will let the recipients warmly know that you put extra thought into what you’re giving them.

How much to spend? While this is entirely up to you, reflect on how much you expected your friends to dish out to participate in the wedding, and what perks you’ve provided for them. Gentlemen, if you’ve treated the fellows to their rental tuxes, your gift can be much smaller than if you asked them to splurge on an expensive suit, cufflinks and shoes. Additionally, your maid-of-honor and best man have been undoubtedly contributing more time and money than the others, so make their presents a bit more extravagant and personal than the others. Looking to save money? Keep an eye out for discounts throughout the planning process, and strike when the iron is hot.

You’re friends and family have gone the extra mile to make you feel special on your big day, and it’s important that you let them know that you don’t take their efforts for granted. While there are many opportunities in the wedding planning process to cut financial corners, your bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts are not one of them; show your appreciation with thoughtful, creative gifts that they’ll genuinely hold dear and use on a regular basis.

This post courtesy of Alexia Ringler.

Tags: bridesmaid trends, bridesmaids, gifts, groomsmen, groomsmen gifts, wedding