Giving gifts

Giving gifts to your wedding party remains as an ongoing controversy among brides and grooms. Are we required to give our wedding party gifts? I am paying for their hair and makeup, isn't that a gift enough? Isn't just being asked to be in our wedding a special honor in itself? My answer to these questions are yes and no.

Asking friends and family to stand up with you is a great honor, I agree, but have you stopped to add up all that they are spending for your wedding? If your friend is a struggling college student or recently lost his job, then the money that they are putting down on your wedding could be a hardship. It is time to think like an attendant.

For women, the costs are more than men; dress, hair, makeup, shoes, jewelry, shower gifts. A bridesmaid spends an average of $550.00 by the time she walks down the aisle. Ouch! So, to gift your maids with their hair and makeup is very thoughtful and welcomed. Do I think that you should give gifts to your attendants? Yes! They are doing a wonderful thing for you so giving a token of your appreciation is the least you can do for them. It doesn't have to be a grandiose gift, just something heartfelt and individualized for them.

How about paying for half of their dress, pay for their hair or makeup to be done, treat them to a spa day, or purchase the jewelry for their ensemble? You could do a beautiful gift bag full of the latest beauty products, tickets to a well-sought after show, a year's subscription to something they have been wanting but couldn't afford, or many other lovely ideas that let them know you deeply appreciate them being with you on your special day.

Guys, you aren't off the hook; showing your buddies your appreciation is just as important as well. How about a day at the golf course, on you? Paint ball, the shooting range, a night in the town, court side seat tickets to a sporting event, etc. You get the idea. Make it fun and memorable and above all, don't forget to say: THANK YOU!

By the by, the beautiful, handcrafted bracelet shown above is available through Special Events. These are beautiful and become a heirloom keepsake! How lovely to wear on your wedding day.