What (and What Not) to Buy the Bride in Your Life
Shopping for the bride in your life can be tricky. While Pinterest may have you convinced that anything with "Bride" plastered across the front is the way to go, let's take a step back. Today's brides are moving beyond the traditional "Mrs."-emblazoned gear in favor of more thoughtful, personal gifts. Here's a guide on what will win her heart—and what might end up in the back of her closet.
Sure, a "Bride" robe or tote bag can be fun, but how many white monogrammed items can one person realistically use? After the wedding, these gifts lose their charm pretty quickly.
Consider something embroidered with her new initials or a custom keepsake box for wedding mementos. Think beyond the obvious and go for something that will stand the test of time– jewelry, a hand-lettered vow book, or even a custom print of her wedding venue, are meaningful options she'll cherish long after "I do."
Here are some examples I loved.
- Petite Keep—The Bridal Trunk
- Jewelry cleaning kit or ring cleaning pen
- A charming jewelry trinket dish
- LL Bean (or dupe version) canvas embroidered tote bag with her future last name
- Comfy and chic white pajama set
- A wedding planner journal (lifesaver!)
- A cute sweatshirt or t-shirt that does NOT say "Bride." (Use code "Jas15" on Shopriffraff.com for a discount)
- A stylish trucker hat with a catchy phrase
- The Ceremony Club Photo Album
- Engagement ornament
- A teapot with a relaxing tea for the stressful wedding planning days
Be sure to use my Amazon link as a guide!
Skip It—Novelty Wedding Survival Kits
Lip balm, tissues, and mints in a "Bride Emergency Kit" pouch might seem clever, but she likely already has her essentials packed.
Buy This Instead—Relaxation Gifts
A luxurious silk sleep mask, a plush personalized blanket, or even a gift card for a spa day will help her unwind amid the wedding planning whirlwind.
Skip It—Matching Bridesmaid Swag Overload
Matching pajama sets and tumblers with "Bridesmaid" in sparkly letters are popular but can feel impersonal.
Buy This Instead—Thoughtful Experience Gifts
Arrange a special girls' day out with her closest friends—a wine-tasting tour, pottery class, or concert she's been dying to see. Memories last longer than another tumbler.
Skip It—Gimmicky Home Decor
"Mr. & Mrs." throw pillows may not match her personal style and could end up tucked away.
Buy This Instead—Custom Home Accents
Think meaningful and timeless: a framed map of where they met, custom coasters with meaningful dates, or a beautifully etched cutting board with their family name.
Parting Words...
Thoughtful Is the New Trendy—Today's brides want gifts that reflect their personalities and their love stories. Personalization, sentimentality, and practicality are key. If unsure, skip the mass-produced "Bride" gear and think outside the box!
