Lisa Parker asked:
A wedding is an expensive celebration and the bride and groom may not have a lot of money to spend on gifts for the wedding party. Brides and grooms often forget to budget for wedding party gifts, which can be a problem. You want to show your appreciation, but as your wedding date draws closer, you may not have enough money for wedding party gifts. In today’s economy, saving money is important, and a wedding can make that difficult.
Some people think that those in their wedding party deserve extravagant gifts, and in most likelihood, they probably do deserve it for supporting you and your significant other on your wedding day. How do you give a great gift without spending a fortune? Here are some tips to finding that perfectly priced present for the people in your wedding party:
Tip #1: Buy in bulk – Although it is nice to get personalized gifts, in many cases, it is cheaper to purchase items in bulk. If you can buy the same thing for the bridesmaids and groomsmen, you might be able to save even more money. If you do not purchase the same gifts for everyone, you can at least save money by ordering all of the items from the same wedding company. Pick up gift bags or wrapping paper from that company as well for even more savings!
Tip #2: Purchase items that can be engraved for free – Engraving items with initials, names, or even dates can be really special for your wedding party. However, engraving can be a bit pricey. If you order online, though, many companies offer items that can be engraved free of charge. You can choose cufflinks, glass boxes, jewelry, mugs, money clips, and more. Engraving an item makes it more special, so you can save money while providing a well thought out gift personalized for those in your wedding party. Professionally engraved items do not have to be expensive.
Tip #3: Consider gift cards – While it may seem like the easy way out, gift cards can be an excellent gift choice. A gift card may seem like a better gift than an item costing the same price. The gift cards can be specific to the people in your wedding party, to a general website or brick and mortar store that everyone likes, or to something special (like a spa). Gift cards are easy and, comparatively, inexpensive. Some restaurants and other stores even give you a discount if you spend above a certain amount on your gift cards!
Tip #4: Order you gifts early – You can often purchase items for less money if you shop online. Regardless of whether you order online or choose a brick and mortar store, if you have to pay for rush shipping, you may end of spending a lot of money in order to have the item shipped in time for the wedding. By ordering items well in advance, you are able to choose the cheapest shipping option available and this provides you with more choices such as personalization. Generally, engraved, are unable to be ordered on short notice.
Tip #5: Keep your wedding party small – No matter what you order, you can save money by ordering fewer numbers. Many people have large wedding parties in an attempt to include all of their friends, but keep in mind that a bigger wedding party means more money, not just in gifts, but in other aspects of the wedding as well. The rehearsal dinner, any parts of the outfits you are paying for, the photography, and so forth can become more expensive with a large wedding party. When the wedding party consists of between two and six people (one to three bridesmaids and one to three groomsmen) you can save a lot of money. This is your wedding, and although some friends might be hurt at first, they should get over it. That sounds harsh, but in reality, it just makes sense to stay within your budget.
Remember, it really is the thought that counts. If you are having a small, low-budget wedding, your wedding party should understand when they do not receive diamond jewelry as a wedding party gift. If you are running low on money, do not put yourself in financial trouble just to buy gifts. If you are artistic or crafty, consider making the gifts, and if you are not, do not be afraid to choose something in your budget. Be gracious and thankful.
There are many options available when choosing a budget wedding party gift. Many gift suggestions include personalized gifts or gift certificates. A personalized gift would be more expensive than the same gift without your guests name engraved. Depending on your budget and the size of your wedding party, there are many great gift options available a price you can afford.
WOMACK
