When should you give bridesmaids their gifts? Whether you’re giving the cutest getting ready outfits for bridesmaids or one of these unique bridesmaid gift ideas, you probably already know what you’re giving as bridesmaid gifts… but when do you give bridesmaid gifts? That’s the real question. Timing is everything so we’re here to guide you on when to give your bridal party gifts to ensure it’s done right. Most brides give bridesmaid gifts either at the bachelorette party, the rehearsal dinner, or the morning of the wedding while getting ready. The best time depends on your timeline, how personal you want the moment to feel, and whether the gift will be used on the wedding day.
Read on for more and find out what will work perfectly with your wedding timeline!
If you are still deciding what to give, start here: useful bridesmaid gifts they’ll actually want and use.
TL;DR: When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts
The best time to give bridesmaid gifts is the morning of the wedding if the items will be worn or used that day. Other great options include the bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, or after the wedding for personalized keepsakes. Choose the timing that fits your schedule and stress level.
When Should You Give Bridesmaids Their Gifts? (Quick Answer)
There is no single right answer: it will depend on what works best for YOU! Popular times to give bridesmaid gifts include at the bridal shower, before the wedding (like the rehearsal dinner or getting-ready morning), on the wedding day, or even after the wedding as a thank-you. Each timing has different benefits. Read on for pros, cons, and suggestions to match your wedding style.
Best Time to Give Bridesmaid Gifts at a Glance
| Timing | Best For | Watch Out For |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelorette Party | Fun, themed gifts meant to be worn or used during the trip | Not ideal for sentimental or fragile gifts |
| Rehearsal Dinner | Calm, in-person thank-you before the wedding | Less emotional than wedding morning |
| Morning of the Wedding | Gifts worn or used on the wedding day | Needs extra time built into the timeline |
| Wedding Day | Private, one-on-one gifting moments | Easy to feel rushed |
| After the Wedding | Highly personalized or photo-based keepsakes | No in-person reaction |
When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts: All Timing Options Explained
There are several correct answers when it comes to when to give bridesmaid gifts, depending on your timeline and how the gifts will be used.
When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts at the Bachelorette Party
Give bridesmaid gifts at the bachelorette party if they are fun, themed items meant to be worn or used during the trip.
This works especially well for destination bachelorette parties, beach weekends, or cabin getaways where matching shirts, hats, or accessories add to the experience.
When to Give Bridesmaids Their Gifts at the Rehearsal Dinner
The rehearsal dinner is a great time to give bridesmaid gifts if you want a calm, in-person moment before the wedding day.
This timing feels intentional and allows you to thank your bridal party without the pressure or rush of the wedding morning.
When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts the Morning of the Wedding
The morning of the wedding is the best time to give bridesmaid gifts if they will be worn or used that day.
This is the most emotional option and creates beautiful getting-ready photos while ensuring no one forgets items like pajamas, jewelry, or robes.
This timing works especially well for
getting-ready outfits and bridesmaid pajamas that need to be worn that day.
When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts on the Wedding Day
Give bridesmaid gifts on the wedding day if you prefer a private, one-on-one thank-you before the ceremony.
This approach works well for smaller bridal parties but requires careful scheduling to avoid delays.
When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts After the Wedding
It is perfectly acceptable to give bridesmaid gifts after the wedding, especially if you want to personalize them.
Many couples choose this option so they can include wedding photos or create keepsakes tied to memories from the day.
The Best Time to Give Bridesmaid Gifts (Based on Real Wedding Timelines)
As a wedding planner, I’ve seen it done several different ways. However, in my opinion, it is best to give bridal party gifts the morning of the wedding while you’re lounging together and before you start getting ready. This is because you have ample time to give the gift and make it memorable without rushing around; in addition, there is less of a chance of a bridesmaid forgetting to bring a particular gift item to wear on the wedding day such as pajamas, jewelry, shoes, a robe, etc. Make it easy and present the gifts to bridesmaids on the morning of the wedding.
PRO TIP: Carve out a little extra time in your timeline to ensure it is not rushed. :)
Common Mistakes When Giving Bridesmaid Gifts
- Waiting until the reception. By then, everyone is distracted and the moment gets lost.
- Giving wearable gifts too late. Jewelry, pajamas, or robes should be given before they are needed.
- Overloading the wedding morning. Too many items or complicated packaging creates stress.
- Assuming there is only one right answer. The best timing is the one that fits your schedule.
- Forgetting the thank-you note. A short handwritten message matters more than expensive packaging.
Don’t forget the gift wrapping!
How to Choose When to Give Bridesmaids Their Gifts
► Consider logistics. Are most bridesmaids local? If not, mailing later might be easiest.
► Think about photos. If you want a “getting-ready” photo moment, give gifts the morning of.
► Decide how personal you want to be. Proposals are symbolic. Morning-of gifts are emotional. Post-wedding gifts can be very personalized.
► Factor in budget. You might do a small proposal gift and a more meaningful gift later, or one nice gift at the rehearsal dinner.
What to give and suggested budgets
There is no strict rule for how much to spend. A helpful approach is to set a per-person budget and stick with it so you do not stress. Here are common ranges and ideas:
- Under $25: personalized tote, custom keychain, nice candle, monogrammed mug.
- $25 to $75: dainty jewelry, personalized tumbler, luxe robe, engraved compact mirror, specialty skincare set.
- $75 to $150: fine jewelry, designer bag accessory, spa gift card, custom keepsake box.
Tip: If the bridesmaids are paying for dresses, travel, or hair, you might lean toward a more generous gift if your budget allows.
Presentation and a short script
Packaging elevates the entire moment. Use tissue, a handwritten note (these cards are super cute!) and a simple ribbon. Here are a few quick message lines you can adapt.
- “I can’t tie the knot without you! Thank you for standing by me.”
- “For the laughs, the late night planning sessions, and for always showing up. Love you.”
- “You make my life better! Thank you for saying yes to being my bridesmaid.”
Checklist: When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts
- Bachelorette party: themed and fun
- Rehearsal dinner: calm and personal
- Getting-ready morning: photo-ready and emotional
- Wedding day: intimate and private
- After the wedding: thoughtful and personalized
Still planning your bridal party timeline? These guides pair perfectly:
Final thoughts
When to give bridesmaid gifts comes down to what matters most to you. Want photos and tears? Give gifts the morning of the wedding. Want a keepsake moment tied to the ask? Do it at the bridesmaid proposal. Want low stress? Mail thoughtful gifts after the wedding. Any option is the right option if it comes from the heart.
Need help choosing bridesmaid gifts that match your timeline and budget? Browse the 50+ Most Useful Bridesmaid Gifts They’ll Actually Want and Use, our most popular curated bridesmaid gift guide.
When are YOU giving gifts to your bridesmaids? Tell me in the comment box below!
xo
Emma
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