Holy smokes, you guys: you’ve been blowing up our Ask Emmaline inbox! Your wedding questions are awesome, our readers are the best on the planet, and we can’t wait to answer them all. Bride-to-be, Nicky, asks us,
“I just bought cosmetic pouches for my bridesmaids, but I have no idea what to put in them. Do you give them as-is or are you supposed to put other gifts inside? Help!”
Fantastic question, and an easy one at that! For starters, no, you don’t have to fill bridesmaid bags with any extra gifts, unless you want to (and your budget allows). If you do decide to add gifts, we’ve rounded up ten fun ideas for what to put in bridesmaid bags below. Enjoy!
What to Put in Bridesmaid Bags
1. Pretty Nail Polishes
Yesterday’s post about the best monthly boxes was so well-received that I have over two dozen emails about these polishes alone! I know for a fact that your bridesmaids would love pretty nail color in colors or shades to coordinate with your wedding colors or the season. They have such pretty shades, like this bestseller: ballet slippers!
2. Favorite Makeup or Beauty Products
What are your favorite makeup products? A bridesmaid bag is a great place to stow a few of your faves to give as gifts to your girls. For instance, I took to X [Twitter] recently to find out about a new foundation (I needed something with more coverage than a sheer tinted moisturizer, you feel me?) and realized how fun it is to try NEW products, specifically when people recommend their favorites. So, think about your favorite mascara, lip balm or lipstick, blush, and eye shadow. Pick specific ones for each bridesmaid and put ’em in a cute bridesmaid bag. They don’t have to be expensive, either: I love me some drugstore cosmetics, like this new mascara that has over 165,000 reviews. That’s so many positive ratings! People love this stuff and so do I.
For beauty products, you have to see these we talked about recently. They’re my new go-to!
3. A Compact Mirror
A compact mirror is one perfect gift idea she’ll use again and again. Personalize it for an even more memorable gift. These custom compact mirrors by LINLANGGifts are cute!
4. An Emergency Kit
Include some wedding-day essentials she won’t want to go without, such as clear nail polish (for hosiery runs), eye makeup remover wipes (to get rid of mascara runs), aspirin, a small can of hairspray, mints or chewing gum… you get the idea. Or, get one that’s already been pre-made on Etsy.
This bridesmaid emergency kit tin is my favorite! You can get it filled or empty (and fill it up yourself). By SweetTalkDesigns.
If you need one ASAP, this one offers fast shipping. By PinchProvisiona.
5. A Gift Card
Who doesn’t love a gift card, the gift of being able to splurge on any thing your little heart desires? Some of my faves: Target (obviously, since it has EVERYTHING), Amazon (again, everything), Groupon, salon, movie theater, or a spa package experiences so she can relax pre or post-wedding. A gift card to her favorite clothing store is always a perfect gift, too.
6. A Piece of Jewelry
This one is a popular option, for good reason: there are so many beautiful jewelry pieces out there! Be sure to check this out for handmade finds. Pick a piece that is personalized with her name, birthstone, or something that’s entirely her style. Here are a few suggestions.
7. Foldable Flats
Foldable flats are a gift she’ll use again and again. Also, they’re extremely well-received: your bridesmaids feet are likely going to hurt at some point in the evening and these will keep ’em dancing!
8. A Heartfelt Card
Stick a heartfelt note or bridesmaid card inside the bag. She’ll love the sentiment and it doesn’t cost a thing.
9. Bridesmaid Apparel
Wearing something on the morning of the wedding has become quite the tradition! Pick out a bridesmaid robe like this, a t-shirt, or a set of comfy pajamas for your bridesmaid bags. These are the most comfortable pair you can buy! They’re available in many sizes and colors, too. By Seline Lounge.
10. Makeup Remover
Ah, last but not least, don’t forget to pack makeup remover wipes.
These are the best:
Or you can get a reusable makeup remover cloth she can wash and reuse (it removes makeup with just water!) You’ll be happy to have it in, just in case!
xo
-E.
P.S. What would you add to the list?
