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Think Outside the Box for Tokens of Your Appreciation Chic, thoughtful gifts ideas for the wedding party If it takes a village to raise a child, then it takes a team to throw a wedding. For brides and grooms, the players in your wedding-day lineup serve a key role. From hosting showers to stamping envelopes, planning wild bachelor parties to tuxedo rentals, by game time, your team deserves a nod of recognition. Knock one out of the park with a thank-you gift that breaks the mold. For a day so rooted in tradition, freedom flows when it comes to showering your attendants with appreciation. Bag the bows and get creative - sometimes the best gifts don't come in a box. Let the days of jewelry for the bridesmaids and personalized money clips for groomsmen pass. It's time to update your gift-giving IQ. As deputy editor Sally Kilbridge of Brides Magazine observes, tradition still holds strong for some, but it doesn't have to. "There are a lot of creative directions to go for those who don't want to give cookie-cutter presents." Action gifts like theatre tickets, restaurant gift certificates and spa services raise the bar, but even more popular today is a combination of the two. "It's about getting everyone together for an activity and then giving small token presents at that time," says Kilbridge. It's the best of both worlds - a bonding gesture with a takeaway. Turn away from the classic, go-to gift. Here are 10 twists on classic gifts fit for every batch of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Bridemaids For Foodies Old: Serving platter New: Private cooking lesson or tasting. Everyone gets a cookbook. Why: Food and friendship go hand in hand. Cultivate your gals' culinary talents and delight taste buds on the way. Or simply sit back and sample when you choose at a chocolate, tequila or cheese tasting session. From tapas to Tuscan, everyone wins with this lesson. For Greenthumbs Old: Framed floral print New: Flower-arranging tutorial by your wedding florist. Everyone brings home their arrangement in a beautiful vase. Why: Everyone likes creating something special of their own, and the vase vamps up the personal achievement (the experts from The Wedding Library of New York City suggest a silver or pewter mint julep cup or a Simon Pearce vase). Budget bonus: already hired for your big day, your florist is apt to cut you a deal for this floral fete. For the Bold Old: Theatre tickets New: Striptease lessons. Everyone walks away with stilettos - and some Vegas-worthy moves. Why: Move over Rockettes, it's time for a modern-day twist to leg kicks and side steps. An instant boost to your thighs and an immeasurable boost to your behind-closed-doors confidence. Your gals - and their guys - will thank you. For Nature Lovers Old: Picnic basket New: A day spent outdoors hiking or canoeing. Everyone walks away with a chic canteen. Why: Fresh air equals fresh attitude. Find a horticulture or regional expert to lead you in the right direction. Every city has hidden pockets of natural beauty. Discover what's already in your backyard. For the Spirited Old: Enya Box Collection New: A Pilates or yoga class. Everyone gets a mat. Why: Even for those who aren't yogis, every gal needs to revitalize her mind, body and soul. Have the time and the funds? Plan a long-distance retreat. Or gain the same results by staying local - sometimes there's no place like 'om.' Groomsmen For Golfers Old: Personalized golf balls New: Golf lessons by a course pro. Everyone walks away with a new golf shirt and hopefully a better game. Why: Golf and men - enough said. For the Donald Trumps Old: Money Clip New: Day at the horse track. Everyone walks a way a winner. Why: The drama, the thrill, the anticipation of crossing the finish line. It's just like the wedding day, only with a chance of walking away with some serious cash. For the Drink Aficionado Old: Flask New: Tasting at a distillery or vineyard. Everyone gets a drink-specific glass. Why: Crave an air of sophistication or call it a right of passage, but every gent needs a lesson in legendary libations. Feeling adventurous, bypass a local landmark and take your lads to a more distant locale. For Athletes Old: Tickets to the game New: Be a part of the game. Why: What guy hasn't dreamed of being Joe Montana or Michael Jordan? The Wedding Library experts suggest a football or basketball game at a local arena rented for the night and played under the lights. Followed with a trip to a local pub for the late-night SportsCenter. For Mr. GQ Old: Cuff links New: Men's spa retreat Why: Every guy secretly craves an excuse to get primped and pampered. Follow-up a manicure with a trip to the barber for a shave with a straight razor. It's about channeling old-school Hollywood - think Cary Grant, not Ryan Seacrest. |
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