And I'd Like to Thank My Bridesmaids by Margaret V. Loudon

"...sometimes the best gift of all is lessening the financial burden of being in your wedding."

   They've been with you through thick and thin and have heard about all your break ups and make ups. They've spent hours listening to your chatter about flowers, seating arrangements, menus and dresses. They're going to spend the whole day of the wedding in your shadow. Your bridesmaids. How are you going to thank them for all they've done?

   Depending on the circumstances, sometimes the best gift of all is lessening the financial burden of being in your wedding. "I think the most appreciated gift is something that has to do with the wedding, and helps to defray the costs for the bridesmaids," said Jennifer Reno, a veteran bridesmaid.

   Some brides pay for the dresses and/or the shoes and accessories as their way of saying thank you. Another thought is a gift certificate to a hair salon so your attendants can relax and have their hair and nails done professionally on the day of the wedding. You might also choose a piece of jewelry — earrings or a necklace — that your bridesmaids can wear in the wedding and have as a keepsake afterwards.

"Personalized gifts are always welcome... Another way to thank your bridesmaids is to host a special event in their honor."

   Personalized gifts are always welcome — silver bracelets and necklaces with tags for monogramming are very popular right now. You might have them engraved with initials and the date of your wedding. Leather goods can also be personalized; wallets, cosmetic bags, jewelry cases or photo albums can all be monogrammed to make a special and memorable gift.

   Another way to thank your bridesmaids is to host a special event in their honor. It can be as informal and inexpensive as a luncheon in your own home or as elaborate as a day at a spa. It's a wonderful opportunity for all of you to relax, catch up and reconnect. After all, you've probably been so busy lately with your husband-to-be and the myriad of wedding preparations that there's a good chance even your best friends may be feeling a little left out and resentful.

   And just in case your bridesmaids decide they really can't wear that dress again give them Cindy Walker's book, 101 Uses for a Bridesmaid Dress (William Morrow & Co.). Here they'll find out how they can turn that piece of taffeta or wisp of chiffon into a bee keeper's outfit, pony blanket, shower curtain or dozens of other humorous possibilities.

   And, most importantly, remember to thank each of your bridesmaids for all she has done for you. "Write a timely, personal thank you card to each bridesmaid," said Jennifer. "Write inside how much you appreciated every thing they did for you in your lifetime and on your special day. Tell them why you chose them to be a part of your wedding. Those cards are most appreciated."

Related Links

Bridesmaid's Mini-Guide
Bridal Showers - Everything You Need to Know
Guide to the Bachelorette Party
Composing a Toast to the Happy Couple