- Bridal Gifts:
How to Thank Your Bridesmaids
- (ARA) - Over the next five years,
as Baby Boomers’ children reach the marrying age, the number
of weddings is expected to increase rapidly, which means not
only more brides, but more bridesmaids.
|
 A new nationwide survey conducted by
Lenox, The Gift Company reveals that 60 percent of American women
have been a bridesmaid at least once. And whether surviving disastrous
dresses, dyed-to-match shoes, or diva brides, the survey found
that an overwhelming majority of women regarded it as a positive
experience.
One respondent rated her experience
positively, even though at the end of the night, “The bride
handed me the keys to the utility closet and said, ‘Didn't
I tell you all? You have to clean up.’”
“Being a bridesmaid is a
rite of passage, and one of the most important things a woman
can do for a friend,” says Denise Dinyon, a bridal industry
veteran who travels the country as the entertaining and etiquette
expert for Lenox. To make the most of the occasion, Dinyon advises
bridesmaids be organized and understand their responsibilities
leading up to the big day to ensure the experience is more fun
than frantic. |
|
Conversely, brides should remember
their friends have volunteered their time and resources and should
thank them accordingly with thoughtful, personalized gifts. “Barware
is a really hot gift right now. Give her a set of colorful crystal
wine or martini glasses, such as Lenox offers in its Tuscany
Seasons collection, with a bottle of her favorite wine or spirit,”
suggests Dinyon. “Or for her bedside table, an Amoré
crystal gift set from Gorham of matching picture frame, vase
and jewelry holder can be easily customized with a photo of the
two of you, her favorite flowers, and small gemstone earrings
to match her bridesmaid dress.” |
