So, you let your favorite people know how much they mean to you by asking them to be your bridesmaids…
And they said yes! They’re going to be your rock right up until you’re finally hitched! Next up, you’re going to need the perfect gift to show your gratitude for their friendship. But how much should you budget for? Don’t panic! We’ve got the crash course for what you need to consider so you can pick out something your bridesmaids will love without making your bank account cry!
How much are they spending?
Being a bridesmaid is an honor we all live for. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come cheap. Bridesmaids have to buy their dresses, they have to travel if you’re doing any girls’ trips, they have to get accessories, hair, makeup…All to make sure you have the day of your dreams! Good news! As the bride, you’re the boss. You get to determine how much it’ll cost to be part of your big day! Time to do the math! Add up what your girls will have to spend to be part of your wedding party, on average, and use that as your base. The magic number is 10%. Whatever they’re spending, that’s the percentage the experts recommend setting aside for each girl’s gift.
What’s your budget?
Maybe you figured out what the 10% number is, but it doesn’t seem right. Here are the two scenarios:
Scenario A: The number seems too high!
Weddings can be so expensive, adding in something else to budget for might seem crazy! However, keep in mind that your bridesmaids are spending a lot, too, and it’s all to support you because they love you! If 10% of what they’re spending feels like it might break the bank for you, consider lowering their out-of-pocket costs. You can put the savings towards a girls’ vacay when you’re back from your honeymoon!
Scenario B: The number seems too low!
If after you’ve crunched the numbers it seems like the 10% rule is spitting out a number that’s too low, that’s fine! It’s a rule of thumb, not a law! If you have it in your budget to spend a little extra on your girls, then go for it!
Are there alternatives?
The last thing to consider when deciding your bridesmaids’ gift budget is if there is the possibility of alternatives that might be appreciated more than a physical gift. Some bridesmaids could be more grateful if you covered the cost of their hair and makeup or even their dresses! Or, maybe they’d appreciate something that doesn’t cost cash at all! Brainstorm a thoughtful favor you could perform that would make them feel treasured. A weekend where you take the kids, painting their garage, pet-sitting so Fluffy doesn’t have to go to a kennel…the options are endless! Sure, they’re not the typical gifts, but sometimes a thoughtful gesture is the best gift ever!
What is your favorite tip for gifting? Leave a comment letting us know!
