Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. (Note: Questions may be edited for clarity and brevity.)
Question: I just got engaged and am in the beginning stages of putting together the budget and getting the planning process underway. I know we are supposed to give gifts to the wedding party, but I have a few questions. First, how much are we supposed to spend? Second, what types of things do people usually give? Finally, one of the members of my party is my best guy friend and obviously I don’t want to necessarily give him the same gift as I give my bridesmaids. Help!
Answer: Congratulations on your engagement! It looks like you are on the ball with the planning. Good work. The budget is of course a great place to start. Once you determine the overall budget, you’ll have a better idea of how much to allot toward gifts for the groomsmen, bridesmaids and your bridesman. It’s really up to you how much you want to spend and how much your budget will allow. Often for the groomsmen, ties, tie clips and pins, cufflinks and flasks are fun and offer a wide range of prices. Consider New Orleans-themed versions, which add a little local flavor. For your bridesmaids, you could go with vintage handkerchiefs, necklaces or any jewelry they can wear during the wedding, flasks for women or nice clutches, as well as a gift basket of fun items for the bachelorette party. Good places to start are Fleurty Girl and Mignon Faget, depending on your budget. For your bridesman, consider gifting him one of the same items you gift the groomsmen or another, different item from the above ideas list. No matter the cost or the item you end up giving, gifts for your wedding party are about thanking your friends and family members for their support leading up to the event and for being part of your Big Day. Be sure to include a heartfelt thank you with each gift and I’m sure whatever you give will be well received.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Respond in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.com.
