GIFTS OF GRATITUDE

Thanking Your Bridesmaids Gifts of Gratitude By Patricia Danflous

She said, “Yes.” Now, how do you thank your bridesmaid for standing by your side on your big day?

Both oldfashioned and contemporary etiquette says a thank you gift is called for, but modern brides (and modern bridesmaids) are most excited about gifts that show sincere appreciation in a creative, but useful way.

The most unique bridesmaid’s gift is the one that makes a long-lasting, happy memory. You want the gift to reflect you and possibly your wedding theme, but not so out-of-the-box that it winds up hidden away in a closet and long-forgotten.

TRENDS TODAY INCLUDE:

 Monogrammed items  Accessories that can be used on the day of wedding  Shoes – for the wedding day and/or flats for reception  Tote bags  Garment bags  Jewelry to complement the bridesmaid’s gown  Make-up palettes and brushes  Robes, pajamas, slippers, and bath oils Show sincere appreciation in a creative, but useful way.

THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE AS A GREAT BRIDESMAID’S THANK YOU, AND LET YOUR IMAGINATION GUIDE YOU. CONSIDER SUCH GIFTS AS:  Candles in the color theme of your wedding or with the fragrance of your flowers  An individualized photo album with pictures of you and your bridesmaid along with a description of some of your favorite memories together.  A journal in your wedding theme colors with a personalized thank you on the first page  Artwork that you created yourself, something different for each bridesmaid  A novel that reminds you of your bridesmaid and/ or your friendship, with a dated inscription

 Gift certificates for a day of beauty at her favorite local spa  A year of monthly deliveries of flowers, wine or a massage-a-month gift to show your bridesmaid that you appreciate her as a friend, not just a bridesmaid

Need more inspiration for finding that extra-special, unique gift? Find inspiration the modern way. Check out internet sites such as etsy, Pinterest, The Grommet, Uncommon Goods, and Perpetual Kid. Or look for ideas the old-fashioned way by attending crafts fairs or visiting a local craft store.

Keep in mind that the best gift you can give your bridesmaids is a sincere thank-you and a positive attitude from the moment you ask her until the lights go off on your wedding day.

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The Wedding Budget

Invitations & Stationery Save the Date cards Invitations, Reply Cards Postage Programs Menu Cards Place Cards Thank You Cards Calligraphy Miscellaneous TOTAL

Bridal Attire & Beauty Gown Veil / Headpiece Alterations Shoes Lingerie Accessories Jewelry Makeup Hair Nails Miscellaneous TOTAL

Groom’s Attire Tuxedo / Suit Shoes Cuff Links Grooming Accessories Miscellaneous TOTAL Ceremony Location fee Officiant fee Marriage License Rings Music Miscellaneous TOTAL

Reception Location fee Food Drink Rentals Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Favors Music Security Gratuities Miscellaneous TOTAL Flowers Ceremony Reception Decorations Bridal Bouquet Attendant Bouquets Boutonnieres Flower Girl Parents & Grandparents Miscellaneous TOTAL Photography Photography Videography Albums Miscellaneous TOTAL

Transportation Limousine(s) Miscellaneous TOTAL

Gifts Wedding Party Parents Bride & Groom Miscellaneous TOTAL

Honeymoon Airline tickets Accommodations Car Rentals Food Entertainment Excursions Souvenirs Passports Clothing Miscellaneous TOTAL

Miscellaneous Wedding Consultant Gown Preservation TOTAL