Are you concerned that your groom will forget to buy groomsmen gifts? Not sure what types of items make a great groomsmen gift? We've compiled answers to your most pertinent present-oriented questions. Read on to get the goods on gift giving and do right by your groomsmen.
When to Give
There are a few moments when it's most appropriate to give your groomsmen and ushers their gifts. Traditionally, grooms distribute gifts at the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding, especially if your gift is something (such as cuff links or a watch) your guys will wear during the ceremony. Otherwise the morning of the wedding day itself is fine.
How to Give
Take a moment to spend privately with each groomsman and usher. It needn't be long: Five minutes is great. The order of gift giving doesn't really matter; your schedule (and your groomsmen's schedules) will most likely dictate who goes first. You can choose to wrap or not wrap the gifts. If it's something the groomsman is going to be wearing right away, it may be best not to wrap it. While handing over the loot, be sure you tell each pal how much it means to you that he's standing up for you at the wedding. If you feel comfortable with writing out your thanks, give each man a card or note along with the gift. If you find that sort of mushy stuff a bit too much, be sure to at least tell your guys how much you appreciate them.
What to Give
Try to avoid giving generic gifts. You can always be innovative and buy the guys sporting gear, game or concert tickets, or the hottest new electronic gadgets. If you still can't come up with a good idea stick with the tried and true: traditional items such as cuff links, beer steins, monogrammed flasks, and cigar paraphernalia.
How Much to Spend
How much you spend is entirely up to you. If you're already knee-deep in debt due to wedding expenses, don't feel obligated to hock your guitar to buy golden cufflinks for the guys. Spend what you can afford, be it $15 or $150. We'd say around $50 is an appropriate groomsman gift price tag. And since your best man has a bit more responsibility (and is closest to your heart), you may want to spend a bit more on him. For example, if you decide on cuff links, splurge on gold ones for your best man; grab some cool silver ones for your other groomsmen.
If you put a little thought and heart into your gift, it will mean more than any old expensive tchotchke. A meaningful gift that's still easy on the pocket? A photo of the guys taken at the bachelor party and placed in a simple, inexpensive frame.
-- The Knot
RELATED LINK: 5 Groomsmen Trends