Q

Four women are hosting my bridal shower. Three of them are not in my wedding party, but I think it would be nice to give them thank-you gifts. First, is this customary? If it is a good idea, what kind of gifts might I get them? I don't want to seem cheap, as they are spending quite a bit of money on the shower. Lastly, when is it appropriate to give them the gifts?

--from prairiedawn2001



A

Dear prairiedawn2001,

Certainly, after your bridal shower, you'll want to send each of the hostesses a heartfelt thank-you. While it's not customary -- or necessary -- to bring a hostess gift to your own bridal shower, we very much like the idea.

You could bring each hostess a pretty corsage to wear, or a silk scarf or box of chocolates would be nice. Picture frames are always a hit, as are bath salts, scented soaps, and potpourri. Or, consider giving something offbeat like gift certificates to a local movie theater or restaurant. Best of luck,

The Wedding Women