You might be wondering, does the maid of honor buy gifts for bridesmaids? The short answer? Absolutely not. Traditionally, it’s the bride who gifts her bridal party as a thank-you. As the maid of honor, you’re already giving your time, support, and probably a fair bit of your emotional energy too! There’s no expectation to buy bridesmaids gifts—but if you do want to share a small token of appreciation with your fellow bridesmaids, something sweet and symbolic like a friendship bracelet or matching earrings can be a lovely gesture.
Whether you’re the bride, the maid of honour, or a bridesmaid looking for thoughtful ideas, this guide has you covered.
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Top 5 Thoughtful Gifts for Bridesmaids
These ideas are perfect for brides (or thoughtful maids of honour) looking to thank their bridal party with a keepsake they’ll truly enjoy:
1. Personalised Jewellery
A delicate necklace or bracelet engraved with their initials, birthstone, or the wedding date is a timeless gift that suits every style.
2. Bridesmaid Proposal Boxes
Include mini champagne, a scented candle, sweet treats, and a card asking them to stand by your side. A beautiful way to ask—or thank—your bridesmaids.
3. Matching Robes or Pajamas
Perfect for getting-ready photos and something they’ll actually reuse. Choose soft cotton or satin for a luxe touch.
4. Custom Tote Bags
Fill them with useful items like tissues, plasters, flip-flops for dancing later, or even beauty products for the big day.
5. Friendship Bracelets or Hair Accessories
If you’re the maid of honor wanting to give something simple and sweet, these are perfect tokens of appreciation—affordable and meaningful.
Gift Ideas for the Maid of Honor
Whether you’re the bride looking to thank your right-hand woman, or another bridesmaid planning a group gift, here are a few beautiful ways to spoil the maid of honor:
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Luxury Scented Candle – Choose something elegant and calming as a reminder of the day.
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Personalised Clutch or Cosmetic Bag – Stylish and practical, especially for the wedding day essentials.
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Custom Illustration – A framed sketch of the two of you or a memory from the hen party or childhood.
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Spa Voucher – After all the planning and support, she deserves some downtime!
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A Letter or Keepsake Book – Filled with photos, memories, and personal notes from the bride and bridesmaids.
A Gift from the Maid of Honour to the Bride
While it’s not required, many maids of honor like to give the bride a small, heartfelt gift either before the ceremony or at the hen party. Here are a few ideas:
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Handwritten Letter – Share your memories, love, and well wishes for the day. A truly treasured gift.
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Custom Keepsake Box – Include little items that reflect your friendship and the journey to the wedding day.
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Personalised Handkerchief or Embroidered Robe – Elegant and useful for the morning of the wedding.
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Illustrated Wedding Venue Print – A lovely pre-wedding surprise or something she can keep forever.
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“Something Blue” Gift – A nod to tradition. A blue charm, ribbon, or piece of jewellery can be perfect.
The answer to “should the maid of honor buy gifts for bridesmaids?” is no—don’t feel pressured. But if you do want to, a small, thoughtful gesture can be a lovely way to mark the occasion. Whether you’re giving, receiving, or planning ahead, there are so many meaningful ways to show appreciation on this special journey.
