How to impress the ladies

Blog request: Unique and Fun Bridesmaid Gifts

- From at least 10 different brides.

Oh, the bridesmaids. How we love these girls. They do anything and everything for us, and we want to show them just how thankful we are.

But what to get them? This is where the uncontrolled panic and slight eye-twitching set in. Jewelry for the wedding day is usually on the menu. But let’s be honest, these girls all have different tastes in jewelry. Most of them will wear it for the big day and then banish it to the back of the jewelry box. Giant tote bags? I’m personally a fan, but I’m a purse whore. Some girls just can’t stand the thought of another bag clogging up precious closet space. Flasks? Let’s leave those to the boys.

Okay seriously I need to stress that last one- don’t buy a woman a flask. Ever. It’s tacky.

I personally did not have any bridesmaids, but I did have two friends who went above and beyond in my wedding planning. For my snap-happy photographer friend I got a Dooney and Bourke waterproof wristlet to carry her camera and keep it safe. For my fashionista chick I got a white sapphire cocktail ring, perfect for any outing.  Happy girls? You betcha.

So let’s make just one rule for bridesmaids gifts:

When you’re thinking about the gifts- think about the girl.

Not the girls collectively, but each girl on her own. You really want to make her feel loved. The same gift for every girl can be challenging, some will love it and some will think it was just an afterthought.

And as I'm writing this rule I have visions of my email box flooding with nasty grams- But I want to get them Giant Bags/Jewelry for the Wedding/Something to ignite their alcohol intake! 

Okay. I hear you. Just make sure every one is a little different- fit the girl, not the group. 

Bags they’ll actually use:

Sale colors under $40.00. They last forever, hold everything, and are machine washable.

http://www.verabradley.com/product/Category/Handbags/Tote/154817/defaultColor/Suzani/pc/638/c/0/sc/641/p/154817.uts

The black bags with pink or light blue monograms are classy and cute- perfect for everyday use.

http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_Exclusively-Personalized-Quilted-Tote-4118-1113_Gifts-Wedding-Party-Gifts-Bridesmaid-Gifts

Jewelry for everyone: 

My favorite Etsy friend. I once told her I liked a necklace, only to have it show up in my mailbox a week later. 

Ask for pieces in the same theme or same colors for the girls, but go with different pieces for each. Necklace for one, earrings for another....

 http://www.etsy.com/shop/harlykwin714?ref=ss_profile

You're so awesome they named a wine after you:

Put on your Bob Ross hat (or hair, I guess), and make a super swanky wine bottle label for your girls. You can order blank stickers and make them at home, or have a printing company do it for you. Pick up a bottle of their favorite wine and stick on the new label. Add ribbons to the neck to make it extra cute. 

http://www.myownlabels.com/wine_labels/?gclid=CIeAhbGZ_6sCFYSo4AodqBGHjg

And for those of you feeling adventurous enough to shop for each individually, I've compiled a list of random finds on the internet to get you started on your search. Everything is between $25 and $50.00, but don't buy just yet. Save your favorites and check prices on Black Friday and the day after Christmas. And if you buy anything without looking for a coupon code first so help me I will come to your house and cut your internet connection. 

After all, every girls knows that finding the perfect gift is even sweeter when it’s on sale.

The Sexy Chick:

Sexy girls need sexy robes.

http://www.victoriassecret.com/ss/Satellite?ProductID=1316653349376&c=Page&cid=1316658130945&pagename=vsdWrapper

A little animal print never hurt anybody.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/nine-west-animal-print-sash-scarf/3192285?origin=category&resultback=2034

The Non-Girl Girl:

It’s cute without being cutesy.

 http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/cara-accessories-leather-metal-cuff/3201120?origin=category

The Green Girl:

Made with love from your favorite veggies.

 http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/fruit-vegetable-parchment-bracelets

The tech geek:

Sexy gadgets need sexy cases.

 http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/marc-by-marc-jacobs-stardust-ipad-case/3178433?origin=category&resultback=2078

The glam goddess:

The perfect cocktail ring- and it’s on sale.

 http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/kate-spade-new-york-fly-girl-butterfly-ring/3191659?origin=category&resultback=1831

Everything she needs in an adorable case.

http://www.victoriassecret.com/ss/Satellite?ProductID=1265621343932&c=Page&cid=1265625572170&pagename=vsdWrapper

The Hippie Chick:

A light, year round fabric in patters that go with everything.

http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/jewel-tone-sari-scarf

Her work is second to none- ask her to make a custom piece and you’ll be amazed.

 http://www.etsy.com/shop/harlykwin714?ref=ss_profile

But what if you’re a bride on a serious budget? Well not to worry. A bridesmaid luncheon is the perfect way to show your appreciation for the girls. I suggest a Sunday brunch- complete with Bloody Marys and Mimosas. Invite the girls over for finger foods (mini quiche and fresh fruit), drinks, and gossip. Give them each a thank you card (with a hand written note) and flowers to take home.

So remember, weather you're throwing a party or buying a gift- it's not just for a bridesmaid. It's for the girlfriends who have really gone above and beyond for you. It's always the thought that counts, so put some time and effort into whatever you're doing for the ladies in waiting. After all, you'd kind of be lost without them. 

Happy planning!