For some reason, no one lets the groom know that he is supposed to select groomsmen gifts for his wedding attendants until the last few weeks leading up to the big day. Don’t be caught unaware. Keep reading for some tips on selecting the perfect groomsmen gifts.
Groomsman Gift Tip #1: You don’t need to spend a fortune. You can spend $20 on each guy or as much as $100 if you want. It is up to you. Most people having a modest or smaller ceremony will go for gifts in the $20 to $40 gift range. Those throwing an extravagant affair are expected to spend considerably more. You wouldn’t want to have the biggest party of the century and then cheap out on the wedding party gifts. That wouldn’t seem right.
Groomsman Gift Tip #2: Plan ahead. Give yourself 2-3 months before the wedding. Most wedding party gifts are engraved or personalized in some way to make them more meaningful. This customization process will usually add about a week to the time it takes for your order. Be sure to allow a week for shipping. If your items are special order or not in stock, that will also add some time. The more time you give yourself, the less stressful the whole process will be.
Groomsman Gift Tip #3: Think about what the guys would like. Guys that spend most of their time indoors at the computer will probably not use pocket knives. Guys that love camping and the great outdoors will probably not appreciate a USB drive. Recovering alcoholics don’t need liquor flasks and so on. Traditional groomsmen gifts such as cufflinks, flasks, mugs, lighters, cigar holders, baseball bats, pub signs, swiss army knives, Leatherman tools and pocket watches please most people. Usually, if you like it and think it’s cool, your guys probably will too. If you’re still not sure, ask your best man. He’ll be truthful and tell you if the prospective gifts stink or not.
Groomsman Gifts Tip #4: Don’t let mom or the bride pick these out! Please. Resist the urge to just let the ladies take care of the shopping. These gifts are really supposed to come from you. They are thank you gifts to your guys for being in your wedding. These gifts will mean the most to your buddies if you take the time to pick them out.
Groomsman Gifts Tip #5: Give out the gifts at the bachelor party or the rehearsal dinner. These are really some of the few times before the wedding that all the guys will be together in one place. Take advantage of this! The worst thing you can do is give out the wedding party gifts on the day of the wedding. You don’t have time for that. It’s your big day.
Groomsmen Gifts Tip #6: Pick a reputable online company. Many personalized gifts websites have popped up in the last year or two. Anyone can start a website business in their home. Trust an engraving firm that shows you a picture of their building, tells you how long they’ve been in business or how many customers they have served and posts their phone number and physically address in an obvious place on their website. You want to be able to easily contact a company if you need to check on your order, ask a question or if there is a shipping delay.
In summary, a little planning and thought goes a long way. You’ll be proud of the groomsmen gifts you purchased. And your buddies will love their gifts and think you are cool for thanking them.
