Wedding Party Gifting Dos and Don'ts

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Your wedding party has been there for you through the good and the bad. To thank them appropriately, it's customary to give gifts to show your appreciation for all they've done. Here are a few dos and don'ts to think about:

Be unique. If you've ever been in a wedding party, most likely, you already know the gift routine. The typical gifts -- beer steins, watches and necklaces -- are great; however your friends probably already have lots of these items. If you really want to "knock their socks off," think of something outside the box. Check out websites like Etsy Weddings and Pinterest for unique options. Also, local vintage shops are great places to find one-of-a-kind gifts.

Don't procrastinate. Let's face it, shopping at the last minute is always a stressful experience. And that stress is multiplied when you're trying to put the finishing touches on your wedding. Chris Easter, co-founder of The Man Registry, suggests completing your shopping no later than one month prior to your wedding. If you wait too long, you may end up paying extra shipping or rush charges for purchases you make with online specialty shops. Additionally, keep in mind that some personalized gifts need extra time to create and ship.

Read the other dos and don'ts here.

Tips for happy bridesmaids

Choosing who will be in your wedding party is one the most important decisions you'll have to make. And it can be one of the most difficult. Hopefully these tips will help you and your attendants have the best and happiest time:

Select friends who understand you. Kate Chynoweth, author of "The Bridesmaid Guide: Etiquette, Parties and Being Fabulous," says think about the roles you want your bridesmaids to play including supportive listener and party planner. Think about those friends who you talk to regularly, who live near you and whom you've known to be reliable. And don't hesitate to ask one of your best guy friends.

More doesn't necessarily mean merrier. Chynoweth suggests having no more than six bridesmaids unless you plan to invite 300+ guests. Trim your list of potential 'maids before you begin inviting people; do this so you don't lose track or end up with a bigger group than you anticipated. And although it's appropriate to include your future sisters-in-law, it's up to you to invite other in-laws and additional family members. Also, don't feel required to "repay" friends who asked you to participate in their weddings if the relationship has since died down.

Remember that timing is everything. According to wedding planner and designer Michelle Rago, you should spend two to four weeks without asking anyone to be a bridesmaid. "It's lovely to be engaged and focused on this huge life change." Try to select them within the first three to five months (they should at least have six months' notice), and ask them around the same time so no one feels last.

For four more tips, check out our source: Have Happy Bridesmaids.

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