Category: Gift Ideas

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Wedding Day: Perfect Gifts for the Bridesmaid Crew

Bridesmaid Crew

Your bridesmaids are the MVPs of your wedding day, the ones who keep you calm before your aisle debut, make sure your dress is perfectly positioned at the altar, and help you with bathroom trips during the reception. To ensure that they know exactly how much they’re appreciated, you’re going to want to pick out some sweet and thoughtful presents that they’ll cherish for a lifetime. The key is to pick items they’ll actually use and that will trigger memories from your wedding for years to come.


● Matching Robes or Tees for Getting Ready —Nothing makes a cuter photo and one you’ll cherish for a lifetime, than you and your girls getting ready on the day of the wedding. Matching satin robes or custom-printed tees will make it extra-special. Tie it all together with a pair of monogrammed slippers for some extra coziness.
● A Candle That Honors Your Friendship —Whether it’s a supremely sweet fragrant love candle or a road trip candle that reminds you of that crazy cross-country trip you took together in college, you can’t go wrong when with the gift of hand-poured aromas. Light the candle throughout all the wedding festivities, such as at the shower and bachelorette party, and then give it as a gift to keep the memory alive when it’s all over.
● Personalized, Matching Makeup Bags —Since you usually give your bridesmaids their gifts on the night of the rehearsal dinner or morning of the wedding, it makes sense to make it something beauty-related. Grab some embroidered makeup bags and stuff them with a few special surprises for a smile-inducing gift.
● A Bottle of Champagne —Obviously you’re going to want to pop a bottle (or four) as you’re getting your hair and makeup done on the big day, but why not use the bubbly as a gift so your girls can enjoy it the next time they’re celebrating something big? You might even consider finishing the bottles with custom labels for the occasion!
● Matching Friendship Necklaces —Remember when you were in third grade and you and your best friend were bonded for life over your half-heart necklaces? This is that all over again but with all your besties, not just one. Get the simple, dainty necklaces with their initials for a personalized but matching option.
● Personalized Note Cards —Everybody wants the opportunity to send a sweet note on their own personal letterhead, and why not? Your bridal party will love opening up a set of custom note cards and envelopes designed in fonts and patterns to match their individual personalities.
● Monogrammed Flats for Post-Photo Dancing —Show what a cool and laid-back bride you are by giving all your girls some comfy, monogrammed ballet flats they can slip into after dinner. Because let’s face it, it’s way better than dancing barefoot (and risking your feet getting crushed) or losing your shoes in the process. You can also surprise them with some flip-flops to ease the pain of wearing heels all day.
● A Box of Custom Chocolates —They say chocolate says, “I love you,” and we think that goes for platonic love, too. There are so many creative chocolatiers out there who make one-of-a-kind candy creations that take gift-giving up a few notches. To get some ideas on chocolate artists who can make you a box like no other, look to Instagram.
● A Self-Care Kit for the Morning After —Acknowledge that being in someone’s wedding can be stressful, time-consuming, and costly. After a full weekend of wedding activities, encourage your girls to rest and recoup with a well-stocked self-care basket complete with bath bombs, aromatic oils to diffuse and face masks.

● A Framed Photo of the Whole Crew —During the bridal shower, bachelorette party or dress shopping outing, make sure to have someone take your photo as a group so you can have it printed and framed as a special gift for the whole crew. You might even consider having it printed on wood, glass or fabric for a special twist.
● A Book About Friendship —We don’t want to be too cheesy, but remember that this is the time in your life that you get to be super sentimental with your besties, so take advantage of it. A card and a book about friendship will really get the emotions flowing, no matter if it’s a book of poems or a literary masterpiece focused on friends.
● A Passport Cover —If it’s a destination wedding or if the vast majority of your crew has traveled to be with you on your big day, it makes sense to make your bridesmaids’ gifts travel-inspired. Monogrammed passport covers or luggage tags are always popular among jet-setting crews.
● A Pair of Personalized Sunglasses —Anything you can give your girls that also doubles as a fun photo prop is a win-win for wedding day fun. Give your girls some bold, personalized sunglasses, preferably in a rainbow of hues, and make sure the photographer snaps some pics of everyone sporting them together.
● A Comfy, Monogrammed Blanket —Everyone appreciates the sentiment of a cozy, restful night in, which is why personalized blankets always make popular presents. This is an awesome option for fall and winter weddings, especially, but works year-round, too.

Pair it With a Handwritten Note
We know that your to-do list is longer than it has ever been, and spare time is in short supply, but make sure to write each and every one of your bridesmaids a handwritten note to accompany your gift.

It doesn’t have to be long, emotional or perfectly written, but it should come from the heart and let your best friends know how much you appreciate them. With this formula, you can be sure every member of Team Bride will be grinning from ear-to-ear right next to you on your special day.

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The most important Wedding registry Do’s and Don’ts

Your wedding is a milestone event. So, it is only natural that the guests who attend it will want to gift you something valuable and useful on this occasion. A wedding registry is a convenient deal for both the couple and their guests. When you set up a wedding registry, it is easy for your guests to find something that you will appreciate and use in the new chapter of your life. So, if you thought you do not need a wedding registry, you ought to rethink this decision.

Today we look at the do’s and don’ts when setting up a wedding registry as well as some important information you should know about it.

When should you start your wedding registry

While some of your guests will wait till the last minute to get you your gift, others will prefer to complete the task ahead of time. It is best to get your registry ready before you have any wedding-related celebration, like an engagement party. In any case, your registry should be ready seven to nine months before the wedding. Now, if you prefer to wait and do things at leisure, this Brides article suggests that your registry should still be ready in time for your bridal shower. This will ensure your guests have enough time to check it out and find a suitable gift.

Top places to register for wedding gifts

There are several places where you can register for wedding gifts. So, don’t be hasty or limit your choices without first exploring your options. Create a curated list of items that will help you as a couple, and find places where these are available. Once you know what you want, we suggest that you restrict your registry to a few online and in-store locations where the items are available. Many of the suggested retailers offer extra discounts, perks and free gifts for registering with them. So, add it to your watch list. 

Wedding registry Etiquette—Do’s and Don’ts couples should know

Do choose from low, medium and high-end stores

Many couples often wonder how many gifts they should register for their wedding. We think it is better to register for more gifts than just what you need. A good rule of thumb is to register for more gifts than you have guests. Your guests will then find it easy to locate an item you prefer. While providing a wide range of items, you should also pick items of varied pricing. Include low, medium and high-end stores to keep your list diverse. This will allow your guests to find a gift that fits their budget without much difficulty. Your guests will also appreciate the fact that you do not expect them to shell out a fortune to get you an expensive gift, if you only register with a high-end store.

Don’t forget to include high-ticket items as well

While it is sensible to add gifts of all price ranges into your list, this doesn’t mean you should exclude expensive gifts entirely. It is likely that there may be at least a few friends, family members or work associates who would prefer to gift you a generous gift. Give them the opportunity to find something that fits their idea by providing at least a few high-end items in your list. As long as your list also has moderately priced items, the rest of your guests can overlook these options and go with one that is within their budget.

Do keep the wedding registry information out of the invitation

It may seem easy to simply put your wedding registry information in the wedding invitation. However, we do not recommend this as it isn’t considered good wedding etiquette. Some experts suggest it is alright to add your wedding registry details to an invitation insert, but never directly on the invitation. Include the name under which the registry is listed, so it is easy for your guests to find the right one.The ideal place to provide your wedding registry details is on your wedding website. You can also share this information with your family and bridal party. They can then pass it on to anyone who asks for it. Although most guests won’t ask you for this detail directly, there is no harm in telling them if a guest chooses to ask you directly.

Don’t ask for money in your registry

Whether you already have all that you need in your home or would prefer cash over gifts, we do not recommending asking for cash in your registry. The traditional expectation from guests is to give a gift in kind, and this is what most prefer. However, if you think its better to receive money, consider registering with a financial registry. This greatly reduces the awkwardness of the situation. These non-traditional registries will allow you to pool your gift money together and buy something bigger. Honeyfund allows couples to register for honeymoon extras through guest gift giving. 

For more tips on asking for cash for your wedding gift, take a look at this article on Apartment Therapy. 

Do create a wedding registry ideas list

Your wedding registry needn’t just have items that are useful for you right now. So don’t limit your options. Think long-term and create a wedding registry ideas list first. Consider what you may need in the years to come. Remember to include special occasions, items you will need for entertaining or even for when your family grows. Set up your registry accordingly, so your guests can get you gifts that may be useful later, if not immediately.

Don’t forget to update your registry on a regular basis

Just so you don’t end up with duplicates of the same item, it is important to review your registry regularly. As you do, remove items that have already been bought and include new items if any. It is a good idea to set up your registry so that you receive updates when an item is purchased. With this option, you will know when to update your registry without personally checking it every time. As the wedding approaches you will have to review your registry more frequently, and keep updating it every time a gift is bought by your guests.

Do keep track of who sent which gift

It is common courtesy and essential wedding etiquette to send thank you notes for all the gifts you received. For this, you should maintain a list to record who sent you what, just as you receive each gift. Either create a list on your mobile device or computer for the purpose. Or write down the names and the name of the gift as and when you receive each of them. At your bridal shower, don’t forget to have one of your bridesmaids note down who got you what if you open the gifts at the venue.

Don’t delay writing your thank you notes

Since thank you notes are time-consuming, it is a good idea to start writing them before the wedding. Common courtesy is to send the thank you notes out soon after you return from your honeymoon. Start with your thank you notes just as your gifts begin arriving. By completing a certain number every week, it will be easier for you to finish them. You can then put them in envelopes and get them ready in time for the wedding. All you have to do afterwards is to post the notes once you are back from your honeymoon.

DO focus on gifts that are useful to you as a couple

The idea of a wedding gift is to give the couples something that will help them grow as a family. Guests also usually prefer to gift items that do not have an expiry date attached to it. So, it isn’t really appropriate to ask for gifts that suit just one of you. Instead focus on items that are useful for entertaining, for your new home or that contribute to a family experience like a trip. Don’t add personal items like shoes, shades, handbags or makeup to your registry.

Don’t hesitate to edit your registry if you have second-thoughts about certain items on it

One good way to avoid regret is to take some time when creating your wedding registry. You may feel that you have a complete registry. However, let it sit for a day or two and then get back to it. This will give you time to recollect if you have missed out anything. Sometimes, it may also be better to edit out certain items from the list, when you go over the list again.

Do take inventory of what you own before setting up your registry

It isn’t always easy to decide what should and what doesn’t have to go on a registry. After looking at what you need in your new life as a couple, also take inventory of the things you already own. As you go through it, you will most likely notice that some of the stuff you already use needs replacing. You may also be adjusting with what you have in certain cases. Use your wedding registry to upgrade these things to serve you better when you are a couple.

Do mix the types of gifts you have on your registry

Everyone has a certain idea of what is an ideal gift. Hence, your guests may prefer certain types of gifts to give you for your wedding. To satisfy this need, keep the items in your registry mixed and there will be a choice that suits everyone. From essentials for a home like towels and linens, add items for entertaining and partying as well as household tools, dishes and equipment that will be useful in your new life together. Heavy-duty kitchenware, basic set of china and good quality bed sheets are definitely useful for all newly weds. So, definitely add these to your list.

Don’t forget to read up on the store’s policies before registering there

If a store stocks most of the things you need, also find out about their shipping, exchange and return policy before registering there. Your guests will prefer to shop at a place where their gifts will be shipped directly to your address. Take a close look at the exchange policies. In case you end up with duplicates of a gift, the exchange or return policy is important to help you switch it out for something else. It will not be easy to exchange your gifts if they allow limited time for it. So, check this out as well. Some stores also offer incentives and discount programs that will give you better benefits when you register with them. Do your research and you can make the most of the available options.

We understand how busy and taxing it is to be a bride, and in most cases the registry isn’t always on the top of your priorities. However, it is folly to let this opportunity slide. Follow this rule list and you shouldn’t have any trouble with setting up and making the most of your wedding registry.

For more updates, advice and help on everything wedding-related, keep visiting us here on the Best for Bride blog. The Best for Bride website is your one-stop wedding destination, featuring most modern wedding dresses, bridal party attires, bridal accessories and everything the modern bride needs for her special day. From designer labels to in-house custom creations, we strive to help you realize the perfect wedding day with our extensive range of wedding services. Visit our website today, to find out how we can help you.

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Show Your Gratitude: Unique Ways to Make Your Bridesmaids Feel Incredibly Valued!

How To Be a Bridesmaid in a Wedding Party: The General Expectations of a Key Member of the Bridal Party

Written by Nicole Rosen of Bliss Wedding Design & Spectacular Events
Edited by Jeannine Bourque of Bliss Wedding Design & Spectacular Events
http://blissmaui.com/

Just as every gal needs her gal pals, every bride needs her Bride Tribe. Your friends have been by your side and through it all with you, possibly even before the man of your dreams ever entered your life. They are an important part of your past, present, and future — so make sure they know just how much you love and appreciate them. What better way to show your besties how important they are to you than by asking them to be by your side as you plan and celebrate your wedding? Here are some ways to go above and beyond in order to show your bridesmaids just how special they are to you.

Before Your Wedding:

First, you must ask her if she will be your bridesmaid. If your gal pals all live close enough, having them over for a surprise bridal party is a fun way to pop the big question. It can be as casual or Pinterest-worthy as you want it to be, the important thing is that they are all there and able to get excited along with you. Especially if some of your bridesmaids don’t know each other, this is the perfect opportunity for everyone to bond over their shared interest, YOU and your wedding! So buy balloons, cute cards and gifts, then pop the champagne and pop the question!

If your ladies live too far away for a get-together, sending a care package is a sweet way to ask for her hand in bridesmaid. A thoughtfully written card outlining how you met and why she is important to you will mean a lot to her. You can even throw in a few blast-from-the-past photos of you two together to really yank on those nostalgic heartstrings. We know you still have hilarious photos from when you dressed up like roller derby girls for Halloween or from that fantastic trip to Palm Springs, so this is a great time to dig up those memories.

For gift ideas, Etsy has adorable glasses that you can have custom made, so your bridesmaids can spend the next several months leading up to your wedding sipping from a personalized “Bride Tribe” glass while planning on ways to make your day extra special. In addition, supplying your bridesmaids with nail polish they can wear on the big day or jewelry that will go with their dresses are fun ways to get them excited about your wedding day.

During your planning process, make sure to keep her in the loop. Asking for your bridesmaids’ opinions on your dress, the color palette, florals, and other important details will be both helpful to you and a great way to make her feel included. These are your best friends, after all, their opinions are gold!

As for their bridesmaid look, getting their input will make them feel important. Allow their own personalities to shine on the big day and eliminate some of the bridal pressure of decision making. Let’s be honest, when you are planning your wedding, there are a million different decisions to be made, and just as many options, so allowing your bridesmaids to help decide on their dresses, jewelry and/or hairstyle will allow you to check one more thing off of that long and exciting list. Furthermore, by allowing your bridesmaids to have input on their wedding attire, you will be making sure that they feel comfortable and attractive, and nothing is more beautiful than happiness and confidence. For example, you could decide on a color for the bridesmaids’ dresses and let each girl pick her own style of dress. However you decide to incorporate your bridesmaids’ opinions, really listen to them and make sure they all feel self-confident in the decision.

During Your Wedding:

Things can get a bit hectic on the wedding day, so don’t forget to celebrate! Make sure to schedule enough time to primp and prep before your guests arrive. If you and your Bride Tribe decide to have a slumber party the night before the big day, the celebrations can start even sooner! A bottle of bubbly, mani/pedis, Vitamin-C-infused face masks for glowing skin, and fan-favorite chick-flicks are just a few basic ingredients that will guarantee a great night with the gals.

If you opted for the slumber party idea (we highly recommend it, after all, this is the last night before you are a married woman) then a breakfast spread for you and your girls is a must the morning of. With the jam-packed wedding-day schedule starting with hair and makeup and ending with late-night dancing, it is important to fuel up with energy and antioxidant-rich foods like berries, yogurt, green smoothies and savoury breakfast dishes. Skip the high sugary foods like donuts, pancakes and pastries to avoid an early sugar-crash or accidental hangry backlash. After you eat (you will be thanking us later) it is time to get ready. One of our favorite additions to any wedding prep soiree are matching robes. Having everyone wear getting-ready robes is so festive and fashionable and the photographs always turn out adorable.

The morning of is a great opportunity to gift your Bride Tribe. Whether you give them a personalized thank you card, jewelry, a cute hangover kit, or matching yet personalized sunglasses (which are perfect for an outdoor summer wedding), your bridesmaids will love the sentiment.

After Your Wedding:

After the celebrations, thank them again for all their hard work and support during your wedding journey. A framed photo or photo album of your bridal party, bachelorette, and wedding shenanigans will be treasured for days. If you really want to turn up the wow factor, you can plan a spa-inspired post-wedding party. Pamper yourselves at a local spa (our favourite spa for a luxurious bridal soiree here on Maui is Spa Grande at The Grand Wailea Resort) or create a DIY spa at your house. Set up the slide projector and stream photos from your wedding journey, pour yourselves a few drinks, reminisce and relax. Because honestly, after the “I dos” you may not be quite ready to stop celebrating! And why should you stop? They are your bridesmaids and besties for life, so as far as we’re concerned, you never should stop celebrating your friendships!

 

About Author:

Magic happens where love and Hawaii meet. Drawing on decades of experience, Bliss plans unforgettable events on Maui and throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Our full-service event planning and design services keep your vision and peace of mind at the top of the priority list. From the first time we meet to your island farewell, we are ready to surround you with the spirit of Aloha and a feeling of pure bliss. We believe in treating every couple like family, and we would love to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your guests. You found your love. Now let us help you find your Bliss.

 

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Ideas to find the best bridal shower gifts

Unique Wedding Gifts for Every Kind of Wedding - Ideas The Couple Are Sure To Remember!

Most guests choose their wedding gift from the wedding registry . This can limit their options to a certain extent. Being invited to a bridal shower means getting an additional gift for the bride, but this time it is up to you to decide what you would give.

Only those who are very close to the bride are usually included in the bridal shower list. So, this is your chance to give a thoughtful gift, although it doesn’t mean you have to break the bank doing so. Since you personally know the bride, and what she is most likely to love, this is your opportunity to give a personal gift that you know will mean a lot to her.

Here are some tips to help you gift your friend a memorable bridal shower gift.

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  1. It’s not the cost, but the thought that counts

The best gifts do not necessarily have a very high price tag on them. You will anyway be spending a fair deal on the wedding gift, so keep the bridal shower gift simple but thoughtful. If you are good with your hands, consider making a special gift yourself. This could be anything from a necklace to a pair of hand-knitted mittens. Consider adding a personal touch such as a monogram of her initials, or creating the gift in colors that your friend adores, and she will fondly treasure it forever.

  1. Choose something original

We know that not all of us are good at making things, so store-bought is the only way to go. Nevertheless, a store-bought gift can be just as thoughtful and special, when the buyer puts in effort to choose one that will be cherished by the bride. Try to look for something that is not a regular choice, but one that suits the bride’s preferences and taste.

  1. Think of a shower gift that goes well with the wedding gift you get

This is a brilliant idea I found on The Knot,and I am sure it is a winner. Just like the wedding invitations are a sneak peek into what the wedding will be like, you can use the same to get gifts with a theme for the wedding. For example, if you plan to get table linen as your wedding gift, consider matching napkin rings that are personalized with a unique signature for the bridal shower, and it will make a befitting combination.

  1. Wrap it to look elegant and attractive

Unwrapping the gift is a big event at the bridal shower. So, make sure you pack yours up to look inviting and interesting. Choose attractive wrapping paper and add bling with a silky satin bow. If you are giving a ready made gift, consider a DIY wrapping paper for a more personal touch. Add more drama to the event by wrapping up your gift in layers of gift wrap,and throw in an interesting message on one of the covers. Make it a humorous one, and it will be something that all the girls can read and giggle at. You can find some interesting ideas here on the Martha Stewart website.

To choose the perfect dress for your friend’s bridal shower, come visit our online gallery of evening dresses and dresses for special occasions at Best for Bride today.