Attendants spend a lot of time and money helping the bride and groom with their wedding and in return they deserve a thoughtful, meaningful token appreciation. Jewelry tends to be the most popular gift for bridesmaids and engraved mugs or flasks are common for the men. Whether you are traditional or original in your purchase, this is an area that needs special consideration.

Bridesmaids usually need jewelry for the big day, so it is an obvious, and practical gift for the wedding day. I personally prefer the practical. Depending on your budget, a personalized tote or designer purse filled with wedding day necessities such as snacks, jewelry, tissues, hair spray, and bobby pins makes a lovely gift. Gift certificates for hair, nails, and make-up is fun, practical, and saves the bridesmaids money. A favorite movie from childhood combined with photos from over the years is a very thoughtful and inexpensive gift. One idea- order the attendants a picture from the photographer or have someone getting candid of their involvement in the wedding and send it to them with a heartfelt thank you once you return from your honeymoon. Often, after all their participation, they do not even have a photo of this special event.

The groom has a harder job. Finding a group of men a present they all appreciate can be difficult. Think of what activities they all enjoy. Do they like whitewater rafting? Perhaps an overnight road trip a month after the wedding--paid for by you--would be perfect. Do they all enjoy golfing? Go for the green and get them a set of great golf balls and an umbrella. Perhaps you all get together monthly to play poker. A nice set of poker chips would make a fantastic gift. The point is that you are thoughtful and that the gift, in some way, shows how much you appreciate everything they have done for you.

Best of luck on your search for the perfect gifts!