by Beth Schwartz

Created on: July 19, 2009

They've helped you stuff invitations, they've assisted you in picking out your wedding dress, they've thrown you a bridal shower and a bachelorette party, they've spent money on bridesmaids' dresses, and they've agreed to stand by you at the altar. Now it's time to thank them.

Considering all of the other tasks that the bride is busy with, sometimes it's difficult to decide on an appropriate gift for bridesmaids. It is especially tricky to find a gift that is appropriate for several different bridesmaids. Here are some ideas that will help you in making this decision.

- Gift basket

I once received a gift basket made by the bride as a thank you for being her bridesmaid. She personalized the contents of the basket to each bridesmaid. For example, one was a wine basket, complete with some wine glasses and a couple of bottles of wine. The theme of my basket was relaxation, and it included massage oils, comfortable pajama pants, bubble bath, etc.

- Jewelry

A common bridesmaid gift is jewelry to wear at the wedding, like a necklace, bracelet, or earrings.

- Compact mirror

What girl doesn't carry a mirror around in her purse? A nice bridesmaids' gift is a compact mirror, perhaps engraved with a personalized message from the bride.

- Frame

Another thoughtful bridesmaids' gift is a frame, perhaps engraved with a message from the bride, along with a promise to provide a picture of the bride and bridesmaid at a later date.

- Manicure

A couple of days before the wedding, the bride could offer to pay for a manicure for each of the bridesmaids. Not only is this a nice gesture, but it provides a time for the girls to spend time together one last time before the big day.

- Personalized tote bag

This is a gift that can be used long after the wedding. Slipping a thank-you note inside is a nice touch.

- Key chain

Engrave a key chain with a special message to your bridesmaids.

- Flask

Who says that a flask is reserved as a gift for the groomsmen? Have it engraved to make it extra special.

Bridesmaids' gifts are typically given at the rehearsal dinner, but it's not necessary. Obviously, if you are treating your bridesmaids to a manicure, it will have to be scheduled in advance.

It isn't necessary to give each bridesmaid the exact same gift. As with the gift basket (above), the gift can be targeted to that specific bridesmaid. Personalization is another way to cater to each individual bridesmaid. Keep in mind that the bridesmaid is honored you chose her to be part of the wedding party. The gift doesn't need to be a mind-blowing item; it is simply a token of your appreciation.

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