Trends & Inspo
Things to Do
January 20, 2023

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas - What Bridesmaids Really Want

Trends & Inspo
Things to Do
January 20, 2023
January 26, 2021

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Last week, we asked for the best gifts you'd want to receive as a bridesmaid. Hundreds of you responded the next day. As the DMs came in droves, we learned that many of your opinions on this topic are, shall we say, impassioned. 

Here’s an example of the responses, “Veteran bridesmaid/MOH here. Please do NOT get us a tote with the word bridesmaid on it.”

It's great to see how this community comes together to offer helpful suggestions for thoughtful bridesmaid gift ideas. We appreciate the knowledge and support that everyone brings, as it truly makes a difference in making the bride-to-be's gal pals feel valued and cherished. 

As you’ll see, quality over quantity and timelessness are the overarching themes of gift-giving. Ideally, you can gift your bridesmaids something they’ll love and one they can wear/use beyond your wedding!

The Cardinal Sin of bridesmaid gifting

Ensure your gift has “Nothing that says bridesmaid or batch party. I'd like something I can use on the regular!”

Of all the bridesmaid gift ideas to follow, it's important we emphasize this one point upfront—because you all did. Many, many times. Resolutely. 

Brides: Do not, under any circumstance, brand your gifts with bridal words or slogans. Bridesmaids want gifts they can use for any occasion after the wedding. And every time they do, they'll think of you ;)

On the other hand, having their name written on the gift is a personal touch that the crew will love. 

Keep it classic and cozy with a cute pajama set

“I’m doing cute PJs to get ready in. Shorts with a button-up shirt! Something they can reuse.”

This one is a sure winner. The Fam is obsessed with matching PJs that the bridesmaids can wear on the wedding day (and any other day). You’re big fans of other lounge-wear gifts, too. Robes followed close behind pajamas (and many of you fancy a personalized monogram on your robe). 

Slippers, sleep masks, blankets, and fun socks are also your favorite. They are comfy add-ons to a pajama set! 

Strike the perfect balance between practicality and personalization

Monogrammed items are both beautiful and useful, making them a hit with even the fussiest of bridesmaids. They show that you’ve taken the time to think about each of them individually. 

Imagine your bridesmaids getting ready together on your big day in luxurious robes, each embroidered with their initials. Plus, they're perfect for lounging around the house long after the festivities are over.

How about a stylish and functional monogrammed tote bag? They’re great for carrying wedding day essentials, and the best part is you can use them everyday. Whether it’s for grocery shopping, a beach day, or just running errands, it’s a thoughtful gift that keeps on giving.

If you and your bride tribe are all about elegance, consider a chic clutch to add a customized flair to their outfits. They’re versatile and can be used for future special occasions, so you know your bridesmaids will cherish them for years to come.

For tips on making your bridal party look fabulous, learn How to Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dresses. It’ll help you coordinate a stunning and cohesive look for your special day while celebrating each bridesmaid’s unique style.

You can’t go wrong with a tumbler (or anything that makes drinking coffee or alcohol more enjoyable)

“Reusable tumblers are always a hit.”

YETI and BruMate are far and away the Fam’s drinkware brands of choice. Many of you prefer a tumbler that has your name or initials tastefully labeled on it. 

Honorable mentions in the drinkware category: Hydroflasks, wine glasses, champagne flutes, mugs, water bottles, and insulated koozies for skinny cans (read: koozies for White Claws). 

Capture memories and personal connections with heartfelt keepsakes

From helping you plan your big day to supporting you through every step, Bridesmaid Duties deserve to be celebrated with something special and personal. What’s better than a customized keepsake to give them lasting memories of your big day and the special bond you share? 

Personalized journals can hold a treasure trove of memories in which your bridesmaids can jot down their thoughts, dreams, or even those hilarious wedding planning mishaps. 

Keep the special moments alive with a photo frame engraved with a unique message or date. Whether it’s a goofy snapshot from the bachelorette party or a touching candid from the wedding. 

Engraved glassware also makes for lovely souvenirs. Personalize glasses to toast to friendship and love; they can also use the glasses on special occasions or proudly display them. So every time they take a sip, they’ll know just how grateful you are for them. Cheers to that!

Capture memories and personal connections with heartfelt keepsakes

From helping you plan your big day to supporting you through every step, Bridesmaid Duties deserve to be celebrated with something unique and personal. And what’s better than a customized keepsake to give them lasting memories of your big day and the special bond you share?

Personalized journals can hold a treasure trove of memories in which your bridesmaids can jot down their thoughts, dreams, or even those hilarious wedding planning mishaps. 

Keep the memorable moments alive with a photo frame engraved with a unique message or date, whether it’s a goofy snapshot from the bachelorette party or a touching candid from the wedding.

Engraved glassware also makes for lovely mementos. Personalize glasses to toast to friendship and love; they can also use the glasses on special occasions or proudly display them. So every time they take a sip, they’ll know just how grateful you are for them. Cheers to that!

Treat your bridesmaids to hair and makeup

“Pay for their makeup the wedding day instead of a trinket they may never use.”

If you’re getting your hair and makeup done professionally, this is a super generous gift for your bridesmaids. Being a bridesmaid definitely isn’t cheap when you consider all the costs: the bachelorette party, the bridesmaid dress, and accommodations for the wedding weekend. This is one gesture for which everyone in your bridal party will be grateful!

Learn new skills with cooking and mixology classes

If your bride squad is full of foodies and cocktail connoisseurs, then cooking and mixology classes make for an exciting and interactive gift. 

Why not get your clique to don aprons and get their hands messy as they learn the delicate art of sushi-making? Have an absolute blast as you make your own sushi rolls and nigiri. Then, sit back and enjoy the delicious meal you made yourself!

You could also shake things up with a mixology class where you dive into the world of cocktail-making. From mastering the classics to crafting creative new concoctions, it’s a mix of fun, flair, and, of course, plenty of fabulous drinks.

Ear-bling for your bridal party 

“Love the idea of gifting jewelry the bride wants them to wear on wedding day.”

Earrings are the prevailing gems of BATCH bridesmaids; the crew can wear them at the reception. Matching bracelets are a very close second!

Though not quite as popular, necklaces, birthstone rings, and watches each got shout-outs, too. :)

Technically, it’s not jewelry, but a few of you appreciate a tasteful addition to your shoe collection. ‍

“Shoes. The ones you want them to wear.”

Put pen to paper and write a heartfelt letter

“Handwritten notes from the bride have always meant the most to me.”‍

This is a lasting memento of your friendship that your bridesmaid will cherish forever. Yes, tumblers, earrings, and monogrammed velvet robes are great, but this gift packs the most meaning. Tell your bridesmaid how important she is to you, and why you’re choosing her to be by your side on your special day. 

Share joy and laughter with your besties

For a squad who loves to stay active and thrives on trying new things, adventure and activity experiences are the ultimate way to celebrate and strengthen your bond. 

Nothing beats the thrill of live music! Surprise your bridesmaids with tickets to a concert featuring their favorite band or artist. Whether your squad are self-confessed Swifties or die-hard Beyonce fans, it's sure to be an unforgettable night out filled with electric energy, great tunes, and the shared joy of experiencing it all together.

Speaking of energy, get ready to get your groove on with dance classes. Immerse yourself in the spicy steps of salsa or the elegant moves of ballroom dancing. These classes are a perfect excuse to get together, get moving, and get those endorphins flowing. Plus, you’ll all have some killer dance moves to show off at the wedding—it’s a win-win!

For something equally as creative but a bit more laid-back, art workshops are a fantastic gift. These workshops are a wonderful way to relax, get creative, and make something beautiful, from painting a masterpiece to shaping pottery, and doing a DIY craft session. Who knows, you may discover a hidden talent. 

If this isn’t inspiration enough, check out these Bachelorette Party Gift Ideas For Bridesmaids to find even more of the perfect experiences to suit your bridal party.

Bags on bags on bags

Wow, y’all really love bags! And you don’t discriminate, either. Duffle bags. Makeup bags. Canvas bags. Toiletry bags. Beach bags. Each of these appeared more than once in our inbox. 

Should you monogram the bags or keep them unbranded? The Fam was pretty much 50/50 on customization. When in doubt, ask your bridesmaids what they would prefer (without completely giving away the surprise)! Maybe you can find a clever way to ask using a poll in our app.

Make their lives easier and more convenient 

Bridesmaids are literal godsends when it comes to handling every tiny detail of your wedding, not to mention helping you plan your bachelorette party without the headache. Want to show your bridesmaids that you’ve truly thought about their day-to-day needs as a token of gratitude?  Travel and daily use items are the way to go. 

We all know the panic of seeing that low battery warning! A sleek and compact portable phone charger is an absolute lifesaver, making sure your bridesmaids’ phones never run out of juice, whether they’re on the go, traveling, or just having a long day out. 

The bridesmaid with a wanderlust spirit is sure to appreciate a good old travel organizer. Think packing cubes, toiletry bags, and passport holders—it’ll keep everything neatly packed and easy to find, making every trip a breeze.

You can create unforgettable experiences for your bridal party for the best bachelorette party destinations to complement these thoughtful gifts.

Give them the gift of comfort and relaxation

Spa gift card! It was the best MOH gift I ever got.”‍

Being a bridesmaid is hard work -- help your squad de-stress with a day of luxury at a spa! 

If you’re not in the market for gifting a full spa day, you can also buy them spa boxes filled with face masks, bomb baths, and, of course, plenty of alcohol. 

While on the subject of relaxation, we’d be remiss if we didn’t also mention scented candles, tea, chocolate, wine, and a good book. These are all lovely, homey gifts you suggested, ones that’ll help your bridesmaids wind down after the wedding. 

Give them something practical

Home and kitchen gadgets are always a hit. They’ll make your bridesmaids’ daily routines a little brighter and remind them of your special bond each time they use them.

For the coffee aficionados in your bridal party, a French press is a must-have. It’s a chic and practical addition to their kitchen, allowing them to brew a rich, full-bodied cup. Opt for a sleek, modern design or a classic glass model to match their taste. 

How about a personalized cutting board for a gift that combines functionality with sentimentality? Have their names, a memorable date, or a meaningful quote engraved on a high-quality wood board. It’ll make for a beautiful kitchen accessory that’s perfect for daily use or as a charming display piece. 

If the bridesmaid who loves to cook or bake, a stylish apron is perfect. Opt for designs that speak to their personality, or customize them with their name or initials. 

Make a DIY beauty product

Nothing says "I appreciate you" quite like a handmade gift. Not only are they a wonderful way to show your bridesmaids how much they mean to you, but creating these items can be a fun and relaxing activity for you too! Here are some fun and easy ideas:

Bath Salts

  • Ingredients: Epsom salts, baking soda, essential oils (like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile), and dried flower petals (optional).

  • Instructions: Mix 2 cups of Epsom salts with 1/2 cup of baking soda. Add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil and stir well. For an extra touch, mix in a handful of dried flower petals. Package the mixture in a decorative jar with a personalized label.

Lip Scrubs

  • Ingredients: Sugar (brown or white), coconut oil, honey, and optional flavorings like vanilla extract or peppermint oil.

  • Instructions: Mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1/2 teaspoon of honey. Add a drop of vanilla extract or peppermint oil for flavor. Stir until well combined and transfer to small jars.

Handmade Soaps

  • Ingredients: Melt and pour soap base, essential oils, soap colorants, and molds.

  • Instructions: Melt the soap base in the microwave or a double boiler. Then, add a few drops of essential oil and soap colorant. Pour the mixture into molds and let it cool and harden. Once set, remove from molds and wrap in decorative packaging.

What about a homemade edible gift?

Leave a sweet impression with some tasty treats. Try these delicious ideas:

Personalized Cookies

  • Ingredients: Basic sugar cookie dough, royal icing, food coloring, and cookie cutters.

  • Instructions: Roll out the cookie dough and use cookie cutters to create shapes. Bake according to the recipe. Once cooled, use royal icing and food coloring to decorate them with personalized designs. Let the icing set before packaging the cookies in decorative boxes or bags.

Flavored Popcorn

  • Ingredients: Popcorn kernels, oil, various seasonings (e.g., caramel, cheese powder, chili powder), and optional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate.

  • Instructions: Pop the popcorn kernels in oil and divide into batches. Add your chosen seasonings to each batch while the popcorn is still warm. For sweet popcorn, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel. Package them in cute containers or bags, and label them with the different flavors.

Custom Tea Blends

  • Ingredients: Loose leaf teas (e.g., black, green, herbal), dried herbs (e.g., mint, chamomile), spices (e.g., cinnamon, ginger), and dried fruits (e.g., orange peel, berries).

  • Instructions: Mix the tea leaves with your chosen herbs, spices, and dried fruits in a bowl. Adjust the proportions based on taste. Package the custom blends in small jars or tea tins, and include a label with brewing instructions and a personalized note.

And these are just some of the responses that had us dying 😂: 

“Stop giving robes. Enough already!”

“NOTHING that says bridesmaids.”

“PJs not robes!!!!!

“To sit next to our significant others at your wedding lol”

“Just nothing with your wedding date is my rule.”

“Omg will you share the answers?! I don't want to get my girls something useless.”

“I was given a fanny pack, which seemed weird at the time but I use it SO MUCH!”

“Will you share these answers pleaseeee 😬 😬🙏 thank you so much!”

“Food.”

“Cash.”

“Ibuprofen!”

“Not a box full of crap. Personalized anything is cute!”

“Anything is appreciated!!!!”

“Please don't give me another wine glass, mug, or flute. I don't need anymore 😂”

Vote in some of our BATCH Fam polls on Instagram to get more great advice from fellow bride-to-be's and their wedding parties. Follow us for party inspiration and original content.

Party planning

all in one place

4.8

700k

parties planned

Build a shared
itinerary

for everyone to follow

Book exciting
experiences

for your group

Launch group
polls & chat

with your crew

Keep track of
expenses

among the group

Build a shared itinerary

for everyone to follow

Party planning

all in one place

4.8

700k

parties planned

Get the app

Book exciting experiences

for your group

Party planning

all in one place

4.8

700k

parties planned

Get the app

Party planning

all in one place

Launch group polls & chat

with your crew

Party planning

all in one place

4.8

700k

parties planned

Get the app

Party planning

all in one place

Keep track of expenses

among the group

Party planning

all in one place

4.8

700k

parties planned

Get the app

Party planning

all in one place

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