Thinking Outside the Box for Gifts

I was reading an article not too long ago about bridal party gifts. The bride asked the editor of this magazine if it was necessary to buy gifts, and if so, how much should she spend on them? The editor replied that giving gifts to the bridal party was considered proper etiquette and she should spend $25 to $50 on each person.

I agree that bridal party gifts are necessary; after all, these people are supposed to be your closest and dearest friends. But, I also think you can play around with the budget for gifts to make them special but cost effective. I often tell people I have "Champagne taste but a Beer budget." So, my goal is to always find nice, quality things but below cost. It can be done, if you are willing to "think outside the box."

For bridal party gifts, consider doing your own gifts bags. Okay, I know what you're thinking...you don't have time for this in the middle of planning your wedding. But if you take one afternoon to complete the following exercise, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised with the outcome: