How Much Should You Spend on Bridesmaid Gifts?

Your bridesmaids have a long road ahead. If you’ve ever been one before, you know that this honor comes with a lot of responsibility, mandatory participation, and money spent, from attending the bachelorette party and the bridal shower to purchasing a special dress (and potentially even big-day hair and makeup). Now that it's your turn to tie the knot, it's only natural that you want to thank your attendants properly for their unwavering support (in fact, we encourage it!).

Ultimately, standing up next to the bride is no small feat—neither from an emotional nor a financial perspective. “Being a bridesmaid can come with high costs and expectations, so it’s important to set a tone of gratitude from the beginning,” says Jane Handel, a wedding planner. Whether your attendants are your siblings, future in-laws, or best friends, their presence has been essential, and a small, heartfelt gift is the perfect way to offer them a token of your appreciation. No, bridesmaid gifts aren’t required per etiquette—but they are a thoughtful way to say thank you for contributing time, energy, and personal expenses towards your big day. With that in mind, you know how much they're spending on their share—so how much should you spend on their gifts?

Whether money isn’t an object or you’re sticking to a tight budget, our experts weigh in on how much to spend on bridesmaid gifts, when you should give them, and what bridesmaids value most in a present, below. 

The Average Cost of Bridesmaid Gifts

Though Handel always reminds her couples that there is no "must-spend" amount when it comes to bridesmaid gifts, there is an average that most duos stick to. According to national averages and expert opinions, that number falls between $75 to $100—but Mitchell starts the cost a little lower. “For everyday working people with limited budgets, between $50 to $100 per bridesmaid is appropriate. It also depends on the bride’s budget and the number of bridesmaids,” she says, noting that, if possible, it's a nice touch to cover your bridesmaids' wedding hair and makeup costs, too.

When to Give a Bridesmaid Gift

One of your first orders of business should be determining how many gifts you plan to give your bridesmaids, which will inform your budget. One gift is standard, but these days, it's common to give more than one at different times during the wedding timeline.

When You "Propose"

Many brides give a small "Will you be my bridesmaid?" gift when they "propose" to their wedding party, This type of gift, which can be as simple as a thoughtful note, is usually given at the beginning of the wedding planning process; bridesmaid proposal boxes, with small bottles of Champagne, a personalized jewelry box, and a candle are common iterations.

On the Wedding Day

Many brides also give their bridesmaids a gift on the wedding day as a thank you for their participation and support—but both of our experts agree that there are no strict rules on when to give a gift (or how many, for that matter). “One meaningful gift with a heartfelt card or letter should be well-received,” says Mitchell. Giving from your heart and working reasonably within your budget should be top priority.

Factors to Consider When Deciding How Much to Spend on Bridesmaid Gifts

There are two key elements to keep in mind as you determine how much to spend on bridesmaid gifts to keep things fair, on track, and inside your budget. 

Your Wedding Budget

Bridesmaid gifts should be factored into your overarching wedding budget; treat them like you would any other related expense, like big-day flowers or cake. “There should be a line item that says, ‘bridesmaid gifts,'" affirms Mitchell. "Put a dollar figure on that line and then include a note with gift ideas. This will help keep the gift meaningful and within budget."

Regardless of whether that dollar figure is large or modest, setting an expectation now will alleviate any surprise expenses later on. Remember that the amount you send doesn't matter—a gift that costs more isn't better by any means. “What you choose to spend should feel comfortable, and it should not come from a place of obligation,” says Handel. “You don’t need to spend a certain amount to effectively convey your appreciation for your friends’ participation in and excitement for your wedding.” True friends are happy to be there for you, and being acknowledged is enough. “Keep it modest and keep it meaningful,” Mitchell advises. 

Your Relationship With Your Bridesmaids

You've probably thought about it: Should you spend a little more on one attendant if you're closer? Not generally, our experts say. Some brides may choose to do a little something extra for their maid of honor, especially if they’ve been the one to plan the bachelorette party or bridal shower (or have done more emotional lifting). If that is the route you choose, those gifts should be given during a separate, private moment.

Across the board, it’s more common for brides to keep gifts fair and uniform. “Keep the gifts within the same price or value range, regardless of whether your bridesmaids include your sister, your best friend, or a new relationship, such as your sister-in-law,” says Mitchell. If they are all close enough to be in the wedding, then it makes sense that the gift or gift budget would be the same, regardless of your relationship.

The Best Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

There are so many great bridesmaid gift options out there, from monogrammed Champagne flutes and experience-based presents to gifts that "cancel out" wedding-related expenses. Other options that can be adjusted according to your price range include the following:

• Personalized bridesmaids bags (these should be functional and reusable, such as a toiletries bag, travel bag, or beach bag)
• Mini bottles of Champagne or their favorite beverage
• Eye masks
• Beauty products, such as lip gloss or an eyeshadow palette
• Loungewear or beachwear
• A candle in their favorite scent

Monogrammed Gifts

While we recommend spending the same amount on each bridesmaid, there’s no reason why you can’t personalize each gift. This can be done through literal personalization, whether that be on a tumbler or Champagne flute for morning-of mimosas, or a cute robe to wear while getting ready that they can take home. Brides may also choose to give their attendants a piece of jewelry, such as a necklace in their birthstone or favorite color, to be worn during the wedding. Depending on your budget, these can be purchased for well under the $50 mark. 

Experiential Gifts

Personalization, however, doesn’t always require a monogram. In fact, all you need to do is make them feel special. “Consider a gift certificate to their favorite local coffee shop, a selection of their favorite chocolates, or a book you know they’d love," says Handel. "Something that shows that you know them—this will make the gift feel more personal and memorable." She's also a fan of shared experiences: “An appointment to their favorite nail salon, an evening out at their go-to wine bar, or even tickets to a show or exhibit will give you quality time together in the lead-up to the wedding.”

Wedding Cost Elimination Gifts

If your budget permits, Handel also recommends removing or reducing the financial pressure of participating in your wedding. “Covering or partially subsidizing these costs (such as beauty services) can go a long way,” she says.

Affordable Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

While any of the above options can be purchased at virtually any price point, there are plenty of other ways to make bridesmaid gifts more affordable. “Relaxation kits (you can pick a scent or theme that’s perfect for each friend) and homemade treats (which can always be personalized to their tastes) are popular choices,” says Handel. And nothing beats the pleasure of being invited over for a home-cooked meal and movie night, if your bridesmaid happens to live in town. 

And don't forget the power of a thoughtfully written thank-you note. “It’s also important to thank your bridesmaids after the wedding with a heartfelt, personalized note to acknowledge all they did to help your day go smoothly and support you in the lead-up to the wedding,” says Handel. Purchase a set of stationery or even hand-make a simple card. Words of love and gratitude cost next to nothing and yet they mean the world. 

When it comes to free bridesmaid gifts, Handel acknowledges that one of the greatest gifts you can give your bridesmaids is clear expectations; it costs absolutely nothing. “Be clear in what you expect from them, both in time commitments and financial obligations (such as bachelorette travel, attire, etc.) and give them the space to decline the opportunity to be a bridesmaid if they aren’t comfortable taking on the responsibility and anticipated spend,” she says.