Wondering how much to spend on bridesmaid gifts? You want to thank your favorite people for being part of your wedding, but you also have dresses, flowers, and plenty of other wedding expenses to consider.
How much should you spend on bridesmaid gifts?
A practical starting budget is $25 to $100 per bridesmaid, depending on what you can comfortably afford. If you want to give a more substantial gift, you can spend more, but there is no required dollar amount. Thoughtful gifts do not have to be expensive.
The easiest way to decide is to set a total budget for your bridal party, divide it by the number of bridesmaids, and choose gifts that fit. Here is how to work out the numbers, what to consider before shopping, and how to make your gifts feel personal without overspending.
How Much Do Bridesmaid Gifts Cost?
Use these price ranges as a planning guide when deciding what to give your bridesmaids. They are suggested budgets, not official wedding etiquette rules.
| Budget Per Bridesmaid | Gift Ideas |
|---|---|
| Under $25 | A jewelry dish, small candle, personalized pouch, or handwritten letter with a favorite treat |
| $25–$50 | A personalized necklace, jewelry case, quality makeup bag, or small self-care gift set |
| $50–$100 | A special piece of jewelry, a useful everyday accessory, or a thoughtfully curated gift box |
| $100–$150 | A premium accessory, a more substantial personalized gift, or a special experience |
| $150+ | A luxury gift, a memorable experience, or a larger gift that fits your budget and your relationship |
My advice: Choose your budget before you start shopping. A single gift that suits your bridesmaid’s personality can be more meaningful than an expensive box filled with items she may never use.
How Much Will You Spend on Your Entire Bridal Party?
It is easy to underestimate your gift budget when you think about the price of just one present. Multiply that amount by the number of bridesmaids to see what you will actually spend.
| Number of Bridesmaids | $25 Each | $50 Each | $75 Each | $100 Each |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | $75 | $150 | $225 | $300 |
| 4 | $100 | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| 5 | $125 | $250 | $375 | $500 |
| 6 | $150 | $300 | $450 | $600 |
| 8 | $200 | $400 | $600 | $800 |
For example, if you have six bridesmaids and budget $50 per person, you will spend $300 before wrapping, shipping, or other extras. If that feels like too much, choosing gifts closer to $25 each brings your total down to $150.
Set aside your total amount first so you can shop with confidence instead of increasing your budget every time you find another cute gift.
What Should You Consider Before Setting Your Budget?
1. Your Overall Wedding Budget
Your wedding gift budget should fit comfortably alongside your other expenses. There is no rule requiring you to spend a particular percentage of your wedding budget on bridesmaid gifts.
If money is tight, a smaller present and a heartfelt note are perfectly reasonable. If you have more room in your budget, you can choose something more substantial. Either way, avoid spending money you need for essential expenses just to meet an arbitrary gift amount.
2. What Your Bridesmaids Are Already Paying For
Your bridesmaids may be paying for dresses, alterations, travel, accommodations, and other costs associated with being in your wedding. Consider those expenses when deciding what you can afford to give.
You do not have to match their expenses dollar for dollar. However, if you are able to cover an additional expense or provide a thoughtful thank-you, it can be a lovely way to show your appreciation.
Not sure which costs usually fall to the bridal party? Read our guide to what bridesmaids pay for.
3. Whether You Already Gave Proposal Gifts
Did you give your bridesmaids proposal boxes when you asked them to be part of your wedding? Include those purchases in your overall bridal party gifting budget.
Bridesmaid proposal gifts are optional, and they do not need to be elaborate. If you have already spent money on personalized gifts, you can keep the wedding-day thank-you simpler.
Need ideas for asking your friends? See our guide to affordable bridesmaid proposal ideas.
4. Whether You Are Covering Hair, Makeup, or Other Extras
If you are paying for professional hair and makeup, getting-ready outfits, or a special pre-wedding experience, those expenses can be part of how you show appreciation.
You can still give each bridesmaid a small tangible gift or handwritten note. The important thing is to plan the total expense in advance so that you do not feel obligated to buy an elaborate gift on top of everything else.
If you are paying for professional beauty services, communicate clearly about what is covered, including any expected gratuity.
What Are Thoughtful Bridesmaid Gifts at Different Price Points?
Once you know your budget, choose something your bridesmaids will enjoy beyond the wedding day. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Bridesmaid Gifts Under $25
- A pretty jewelry dish or trinket tray
- A personalized makeup pouch
- A small candle in a scent she loves
- A favorite treat paired with a handwritten letter
- A simple accessory that suits her style
If you are shopping on a budget, start with our guide to bridesmaid gifts under $25.
Shop the personalized trinket dish by Luck Family Crafts.
Bridesmaid Gifts Between $25 and $50
- A dainty necklace or pair of earrings
- A quality travel or makeup pouch
- A pretty jewelry case
- A candle and self-care gift set
- A personalized accessory she can use after the wedding
Shop the bridesmaid initials necklace by Belky Mood.
Bridesmaid Gifts Between $50 and $100
- A higher-quality piece of jewelry
- A useful everyday bag or accessory
- A curated self-care gift box
- A personalized gift chosen for her interests
- A gift card for a favorite shop or experience
For more inspiration, browse our guides to the best bridesmaid gifts and useful bridesmaid gifts.
Shop the bridesmaid knot bracelet by Majesty Gift Shop.
Should You Spend More on Your Maid of Honor?
You can, but you do not have to. Your maid of honor may have taken on additional responsibilities, helped with planning, or supported you throughout your engagement. If you want to recognize that extra effort, a small additional gift or a personal letter is a lovely gesture.
There is no etiquette rule requiring the maid of honor’s gift to cost more. You can give everyone gifts of similar value and personalize each one to suit the recipient.
Looking for something special? Browse our maid of honor gift ideas.
Should All Bridesmaids Receive Gifts of Equal Value?
Keeping gifts reasonably similar in value is a considerate approach, especially if you are giving them together. They do not have to be identical.
For example, one bridesmaid might prefer gold jewelry while another wears silver. You can choose different gifts that suit their styles without making price the deciding factor.
If you want to thank one person for going above and beyond, consider a private note or an additional gesture rather than turning gift-giving into a comparison.
When Should You Give Bridesmaid Gifts?
Many brides give thank-you gifts at the rehearsal dinner or while everyone is getting ready on the wedding morning. Choose whichever moment gives you enough time to enjoy the exchange without feeling rushed.
If you want your bridesmaids to wear the gifts during the wedding, such as jewelry, give them the items early enough to get ready comfortably. Otherwise, a quiet moment at the rehearsal dinner can be a lovely opportunity to say thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bridesmaid Gift Budgets
How much should you spend on bridesmaid gifts per person?
A practical starting budget is $25 to $100 per bridesmaid, depending on your finances and the gift you choose. You can spend less or more; there is no required amount.
Is $25 enough for a bridesmaid gift?
Yes. A $25 gift can be thoughtful and appropriate. Choose one item that suits your bridesmaid’s personality and consider adding a handwritten note to make it personal.
Is $50 a good amount to spend on bridesmaid gifts?
Yes. A $50 budget gives you room to choose a piece of jewelry, a useful accessory, or a small gift set. It is a reasonable option for many bridal parties.
Is $100 too much to spend on a bridesmaid gift?
No. A $100 gift can be a generous thank-you if it fits your budget. You do not need to spend that much to show your appreciation.
Do bridesmaids expect expensive gifts?
No. The purpose of a bridesmaid gift is to thank your friends for being part of your wedding. A thoughtful, personal gift is more important than choosing an expensive one.
Should the maid of honor receive a more expensive gift?
Not necessarily. You can give your maid of honor an additional gift if you wish, but it is not a requirement. Gifts of similar value with personal touches are also a lovely choice.
Do bridesmaid proposal gifts count toward the budget?
They can. If you have already purchased proposal gifts, include that expense when calculating how much you want to spend on bridal party gifts overall. Proposal gifts are optional, and your wedding-day thank-you can be simpler.
Does paying for hair and makeup count as a bridesmaid gift?
Covering hair and makeup can be a meaningful way to thank your bridal party, particularly if those services would otherwise be an out-of-pocket expense. You can still give a small keepsake or handwritten note if you wish.
Choose a Bridesmaid Gift Budget That Works for You
When deciding how much to spend on bridesmaid gifts, focus on gratitude rather than pressure. Set a total amount you can comfortably afford, choose something thoughtful, and give it with a sincere thank-you.
You do not need to spend hundreds of dollars per person or fill a box with things your friends may not use. One meaningful gift and a personal note can be just as special.
Need more inspiration? Browse our best bridesmaid gifts to find something your favorite people will love.
xo,
Emma
