Bridesmaid Proposals: Creating Unforgettable Moments (+24 Proposal Gift Ideas Your Bridesmaids Will Love)!
If you’re looking for bridesmaid proposal ideas right now, chances are you’ve got a pack who’ve got your back through thick and thin.
And who’s more deserving of an official proposal than that?
In this post, the team has rounded up some really great proposal ideas for your future bridesmaids. Also, we’ll answer a few common queries about this whole bridesmaid proposal business.
When should you give a bridesmaid proposal gift? How much should you spend on a bridesmaid proposal gift? What should be included in a bridesmaid proposal? The whole enchilada.
- What is a Bridesmaid Proposal, Anyway?
- Bridesmaid Proposal Foundation
- Creative Bridesmaid Proposal Ideas
- Gestures To Make Your Proposal Thoughtful
- The Do's and Don'ts of Bridesmaid Proposals
- Fantastic Bridesmaid Proposal Ideas for Your Bride Tribe
- 1. Gift Box
- 2. Personalized Bracelet
- 3. Personalized Necklace
- 4. Custom Message Cookies
- 5. Be My Bridesmaid Chocolates
- 6. Personalized Jewelry Box
- 7. Custom Magnets
- 8. Personalized Hanger
- 9. Monogrammed Tote Bag
- 10. Bottle of Wine or Champagne with Custom Label
- 11. Drink Glasses
- 12. Wine Glasses
- 13. Custom Skinny Can Coolers
- 14. Photo Frame
- 15. Personalized Candle
- 16. Retro Inspired T-Shirt
- 17. Silk Robe
- 18. Custom Silk Eye Mask
- 19. Personalized Makeup Bag
- 20. Tumbler Gift Set
- 21. Rose Gold Flask
- 22. Proposal Puzzle
- 23. Bride/BridesBabe Socks
- 24. Spa Day
- Capturing the Moment
- Bridesmaid Proposal FAQs
What is a Bridesmaid Proposal, Anyway?
A bridesmaid proposal is just what it sounds like – asking your girls (or guys) if they’ll be your bridesmaids. (Bridespeople?)
You can just ask them in person, of course, but a bridesmaid proposal gift asking for their hand in the wedding party is way more fun. And way more meaningful!
A gift also communicates how much you appreciate them. After all, there are lots of duties that come with the title, including but not limited to:
- Arranging the bridal shower.
- Coordinating the bachelorette party.
- Buying their bridesmaid dress or other attire and accessories.
- Holding your hair back after drinking too much during said bachelorette party.
- Making you laugh when you’re so stressed you can’t see straight.
And they’re doing all of that for you just out of the goodness of their hearts, because they want to make your special day go off without a hitch. Help make it worth their while with a meaningful gift they’ll love. (Bonus points if it’s personalized!)
Bridesmaid Proposal Foundation
Before we explore the creative aspects of bridesmaid proposals, let’s lay the foundation for a successful and memorable experience.
Define Your Vision: Creating a Memorable Experience
Crafting a memorable bridesmaid proposal starts with envisioning how you want the experience to look and feel. Consider your wedding theme, personal style, and the unique bond you share with each friend. This vision will guide you in creating a cohesive and authentic proposal.
Crafting Personalized Messages: Expressing Your Gratitude
Writing heartfelt messages for your friends is a crucial part of the bridesmaid proposal process. We’ll provide you with tips on how to personalize each message to express your gratitude, share cherished memories, and communicate your excitement for the journey ahead.
Selecting the Perfect Setting: Adding an Enchanting Touch
Choosing the right location or backdrop for your bridesmaid proposal can enhance the overall experience. We’ll guide you in selecting a memorable setting that holds significance for you and your friends, creating an enchanting atmosphere for the proposal.
Creative Bridesmaid Proposal Ideas
What are some creative and unique ways to pop the bridesmaid proposal question? These ideas will add an extra touch of magic and leave your friends in awe. Please keep reading to see 24 suggestions.
Curated Gift Boxes
Crafting personalized gift boxes for each bridesmaid is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation. We’ll provide you with ideas and inspiration for selecting meaningful items that reflect their interests and preferences, creating a memorable and personalized gift experience.
Surprise Experiences
Organizing surprise experiences for your friends adds an element of adventure to your bridesmaid proposals. From surprise dinner parties to scavenger hunts, we’ll share creative ideas to make the moment unforgettable and demonstrate the depth of your friendship.
Customized Keepsakes
Handcrafted keepsakes are a wonderful way to commemorate your bridesmaid proposals. We’ll provide suggestions for personalized gifts such as custom jewelry, monogrammed items, or hand-painted treasures that your friends will cherish long after your special day.
Gestures To Make Your Proposal Thoughtful
Small yet meaningful gestures can make a big impact. From heartfelt letters to surprise messages hidden within bouquets, we’ll inspire you to add personalized touches that will deepen the connection between you and your bridesmaids.
Personalized gifts
Give your bridesmaids a gift that is unique to them. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry with their initials or a monogrammed tote bag, this is a great way to show your appreciation.
DIY proposal boxes
Create your own proposal boxes with personalized items and a heartfelt note. You can include items such as candles, bath bombs, chocolates, and a personalized wine glass. This is a great way to show that you put thought and effort into asking them to be a part of your big day.
Special delivery
Send your bridesmaids a special delivery to their doorstep. This could be a bouquet of flowers with a note asking them to be your bridesmaid, or a basket of their favorite treats. It’s unexpected and thoughtful, and it will make them feel special.
Surprise visits
If your bridesmaids live nearby, surprise them with a visit and ask them in person to be a part of your wedding. You could even show up with balloons or flowers to make the moment extra special.
Proposal balloons
Fill a room with balloons and write “Will you be my bridesmaid?” on a banner or on the balloons themselves. Ask your bridesmaids to pop the balloons to reveal the message. It’s a fun and interactive way to get them involved in the proposal.
Customized proposal puzzles
Create a puzzle with a picture of you and your bridesmaid and write “Will you be my bridesmaid?” at the bottom. You can even hide the puzzle pieces around the house and make it a scavenger hunt!
Personalized wine labels
If you and your bridesmaids are wine lovers, why not create custom wine labels with your bridesmaids’ names and a “Will you be my bridesmaid?” message? You can even have a virtual wine tasting party to celebrate!
The Do’s and Don’ts of Bridesmaid Proposals
Being asked to be a bridesmaid is a huge honor, and more and more brides are treating their bridesmaid proposals as a big event in themselves. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you navigate this exciting part of wedding planning.
Do: Make it Personal
Rather than sending a generic message to all of your bridesmaids, take the time to make each proposal personal. Think about each person’s interests and hobbies, and tailor your proposal accordingly. This shows your bridesmaids that you value their friendship and that you appreciate all the things that make them unique.
Don’t: Overspend
Bridesmaid proposals can quickly become expensive, especially if you’re buying gifts for multiple people. Set a budget and stick to it. Remember, it’s the thought that counts, so don’t feel like you need to spend a lot of money to make your proposals special.
Do: Be Creative
There are endless possibilities when it comes to bridesmaid proposals, so don’t be afraid to get creative. From personalized gifts to DIY crafts to surprise outings, there are so many ways to make your proposals unique and memorable.
Don’t: Put Pressure on Your Bridesmaids
While you might be excited about your upcoming wedding, keep in mind that your bridesmaids may have other commitments and financial responsibilities. If someone declines your proposal, don’t take it personally. Give your friends the space to make their own decisions, and remember that their presence on your special day is what matters most.
Do: Communicate Clearly
Make sure you’re clear with your bridesmaids about what you’re asking of them. Outline your expectations, both financial and otherwise, so that everyone is on the same page. This helps to avoid any misunderstandings or hurt feelings down the line.
Don’t: Wait Too Long
While you don’t want to rush into anything, it’s important to ask your bridesmaids sooner rather than later. This gives them plenty of time to plan and prepare for your wedding, and it also ensures that you have the support system you need throughout the planning process.
Fantastic Bridesmaid Proposal Ideas for Your Bride Tribe
1. Gift Box
by Etsy: ModParty
Chic, feminine gift boxes filled with goodies are the perfect proposal gift. They come empty, so get creative with what you’d like to give your girls. Personally, we’d be happy with a box full of chocolate – but hair accessories, nail polish to match your wedding colors, and other small trinkets, would be great, too.
The boxes are personalizable with the name and proposal phrase of your choice. They come with adorable black polka-dotted tissue paper.
Some simple assembly is required.
2. Personalized Bracelet
by Etsy: ESjoradesign
Bridesmaid proposal gifts should be as useful as they are thoughtful, and we think these pretty bracelets tick all the boxes. They come in gold, rose gold, and silver with your choice of four cord colors.
Have each personalized with your bridesmaids’ initials, and there’s no doubt they’ll want to wear it long after the wedding’s over.
3. Personalized Necklace
by Etsy: nRichCollection
This is another sweet, personalized proposal gift option your bridesmaids will want to wear long after the big day. Each necklace features an initial and solid heart pendant in your choice of gold, silver, or rose gold plated. The chain is extendable by 2″ to layer it or wear it as an everyday piece.
Order with or without a gift box.
4. Custom Message Cookies
Everyone loves vanilla shortbread cookies, so whoever decided they’d make a perfect canvas for message deliveries is a genius. Have your proposal and her name printed on a batch of cookies and she’ll have no choice but to say yes.
Just be sure to keep extras on hand, in case you need bribery material later on.
Comes in a box of 24.
5. Be My Bridesmaid Chocolates
by Etsy: WhatCandySays
Yes! There’s that box of chocolates we were looking for. Each box contains 15 chocolates with multicolored lettering (flavored according to color, btw – yum!), asking her to be your bridesmaid. You can opt to include a personalized message too, if you’d like.
A heads up: because chocolate is melty, the shop requests that you take your area’s climate into consideration when ordering. They provide a link on the site to more info about that. Shipping is USPS 2-3 day priority mail or express mail, and each shipment comes packed in insulated mailers with ice packs.
Chocolate measurements: 1 1/8″ x 1 1/18″ x 5/8″
6. Personalized Jewelry Box
by Etsy: ModParty
Not only is it a sweet way to propose, but this is a really great idea for presenting your bridesmaids with their wedding jewelry, too! Also, this would be the perfect bridesmaid gift idea if your girls are traveling to your wedding – everyone needs a cute travel jewelry case.
Leatherette box measures 4″ x 4″ x 2.2″ and comes in blush or white with black font.
7. Custom Magnets
by Etsy: KitAtlas
This is such a cute idea! Your potential bridesmaid is sure to LOL when she opens these.
First, select how many bridesmaids’ magnets you need and if you’d like to add a “you” magnet to keep her company. Then, send Etsy shop owner Brittney a message with an attached photo for each bridesmaid.
She’ll use the pics to sketch a perfect likeness of your beautiful bridesmaids’ faces on a fun magnet attached to a card asking for her hand in marriage. Party. Asking her to be in the marriage party.
8. Personalized Hanger
by Etsy: HundredHearts
Another great multitasking gift idea – fancy personalized hangers are a great way to ask her to be your bridesmaid and keep her dress nice and tidy!
There are five font options for engraving, and they come in your choice of light wood, walnut, and white finishes. Available in adult and children’s sizes.
9. Monogrammed Tote Bag
by Etsy: SSweddings
Your bridesmaids will need a weekender bag for your bachelorette party getaway, so why not give them each a posh tote bag monogrammed with their initials?
These are 100% natural cotton canvas with a leather monogram tag. The bags come in six colors (Tiffany blue is our fave), and you can choose to have her initials embossed with gold or silver foil. Or no foil. Up to you.
Dimensions: 20″ x 12.6″ (L x H)
Handle Height: 9.8″
10. Bottle of Wine or Champagne with Custom Label
by Etsy: theprettylittlemess
When you give your girls wine or champagne, it’s a party. Give them wine or champagne with a bridesmaids proposal card, and now it’s a celebration!
Not a wine lover? These labels come in four sizes to accommodate all kinds of booze. If you want to leave alcohol out of the picture entirely, candle labels are available too.
To be extra helpful, theprettylittlemess shop sends specific instructions on removing the old labels perfectly, so your new ones look flawless.
Just a suggestion: if you want to get really fancy about it, put her bottle of vino in a custom engraved wooden wine box from GiftWithLoveStudio. Very classy.
11. Drink Glasses
by Etsy: BlueRidgeMountainCo
Planning on a DIY bachelorette party? Prepare your bridesmaids-to-be with some laser-engraved personalized glasses!
12. Wine Glasses
by Etsy: EverlyGrayce
There’s a reason personalized wine glasses are a common gift: everyone loves them. These glasses feature the future bridesmaids’ names in your choice of 18 font colors, and they come in a gift box with your formal proposal to make it official.
13. Custom Skinny Can Coolers
by Etsy: HandToHeartBridal
For bachelorette parties on the high seas! Or on the deck at your dad’s house – whatever.
Either way, a skinny can cooler with a pretty monogram is the perfect way to keep your bridesmaids’ hard seltzers cold while they reassure you for the fortieth time that everything’s gonna be FINE.
And it’s an excellent way to ask, “will you be my bridesmaid?”
Comes in five colors.
14. Photo Frame
by Etsy: BlueRidgeMountainCo
We like the idea of presenting this to your future bridesmaid with a before-wedding pic of you both. Later she can display it with a shot of the bridal party after the wedding.
Comes in three sizes with optional gift box.
15. Personalized Candle
by Etsy: ModParty
A sweet candle is a great gift, but it’s especially thoughtful when it features a pretty label with her name asking for her hand in helping you get married.
These smell fabulous, and you can choose between ten pretty label colors. Each candle is made with four ounces of hand-poured soy wax.
16. Retro Inspired T-Shirt
by Etsy: ModParty
We really like the retro graphic of these tees, and we think they’d be perfect for a bachelorette party night on the town. They come in black or white and S/M, L/XL, or 2XL sizes. Made from 100% cotton jersey.
Suppose it’s gonna be chilly on your big night out with your pack? In that case, there are awesome sweatshirts by ModParty with the same idea, available in ten great colors and plenty of size options.
17. Silk Robe
by Etsy: GentleSateen
Getting ready for your wedding will be full of stress, hard work, and hairspray. So we think a pretty silky robe paired with a mimosa or two would be just the thing to take the edge off.
These come in nine feminine colors and plenty of size ranges to suit the whole party. If you choose to have them initialed, you’ll love the five design options. If not, they’re just as gorgeous plain.
Materials: Satin and Lace
18. Custom Silk Eye Mask
by Etsy: JoyfulTidingsBridal
Nothing’s more important than beauty sleep, and a luxe satin eye mask is a great gift to help your girls get in their zzz’s. These are great because they feature their names printed on the front for extra fanciness. They also feature adjustable straps for comfort.
Comes in five colors worthy of any Hollywood boudoir.
19. Personalized Makeup Bag
by Etsy: CraftingHandsNY
For wedding-prep makeup transport! When it’s time to get ready for the show, all of your bridesmaids will have an elegant makeup bag featuring their names and the date of your big day on the inside. These are beautiful keepsakes they’ll use over and over!
Comes in cream or natural with your choice of metallic zipper.
20. Tumbler Gift Set
We firmly believe every woman should be prepared for life’s unforeseen road bumps. So what better way to stay prepared than her own drinking travel kit? It’ll take care of everything she needs to keep the beverage of her choice cold from pour to sip, no matter where you guys end up!
Includes one personalized insulated tumble with a large variety of font color choices. The tumbler holds 12 fl. oz and the box also includes a 4 oz. candle. Just pair it with a heartfelt bridesmaid proposal card, and this gift is good to go!
21. Rose Gold Flask
by Etsy: HangingWithTheBride
Because there aren’t enough ladylike hip flasks out there! These beautifully engraved stainless steel rose gold flasks hold 6 fl. oz. of the libation of her choice for discreet beverage enhancement.
The gift box is optional, but it’s just so pretty. You’ll definitely want to include it.
22. Proposal Puzzle
by Etsy: MJsBridalSupport
This is a fun and creative way to ask your bridesmaids to stand by you at the altar. We’ve seen a surge in popularity for custom message puzzles, but we think this one’s the prettiest so far.
Choose the hair and skin type that best represents you and your besties, and the MJsBridalSupport shop will create the puzzle in your likenesses with her name and your proposal message.
23. Bride/BridesBabe Socks
by Etsy: ModParty
Whether you’ve chosen sexy strappy heels or you’ve decided to go barefoot, everyone needs to keep their pedis pristine, amirite?
A cute pair of personalized socks for you and your tribe are a neat way to do that, whether it’s on the day of or the night before the wedding. Not to mention they’re great for photo ops!
Handmade from 100% cotton, one size.
24. Spa Day
by Spaweek
The ultimate bridesmaid gift. Treat your favorite sisters from another mister to a spa day out for relaxing, bonding, beautifying, and lots of laughs.
Best way to make memories with your bridesmaids. Period.
Capturing the Moment
Capturing the essence of your bridesmaid proposals is essential to preserving these precious memories. Here are some tips on how to document and immortalize these special moments.
Professional Photography
Hiring a professional photographer ensures that the emotions and reactions of your friends are beautifully captured. We’ll guide you on finding the right photographer and discuss the importance of candid shots in authentically preserving the joy and excitement of the moment.
Creative Video Montages
Compiling a creative video montage is another fantastic way to capture and relive the magic of your bridesmaid proposals. We’ll provide tips on creating a heartfelt video that includes messages from your friends, shared memories, and the actual proposal. This multimedia keepsake will serve as a cherished memento, showcasing the love and friendship you share.
Instant Photo Keepsakes
Using an instant camera, such as an Instax, allows you to capture immediate, tangible photos of the proposal and the ensuing celebration. We’ll share ideas on incorporating these instant prints into your bridesmaid proposals, creating a sense of anticipation and delight for your friends.
Guestbook of Wishes
Consider creating a guestbook of wishes, where your friends can write down their heartfelt messages and well wishes. This unique keepsake will become a treasured reminder of your special bond and the joyous moments shared during the bridesmaid proposal.
Bridesmaid Proposal FAQs
Here are some other questions to clear up all of this bridesmaid proposal business, before you get to gift shopping and wedding planning!
A bridesmaid box is usually a pretty decorative gift box (like our #1, or something like this) filled with goodies for your future bridesmaids.
It can include edible goodies (the proposal cookies in our list are a great option), favors, wedding accessories, and anything else you can think of that they’ll love. It can be fun too coordinate the theme of your box with your wedding, but obviously it’s not necessary.
A bridesmaid gift box is really just meant to show your appreciation and love for the gals who’ve got your back, through wedding planning and beyond!
This all depends upon your friends and where they live. If you’ve set a date, definitely ask as quickly as possible. Your super-rich sister-in-law needs lots of time to plan that blowout bachelorette bash in Vegas. And arrange the private designer boutique fittings for those four-digit bridesmaid dresses. Oh wait, that was a movie.
If you don’t have a sister-in-law like Helen, you’ll still need time for planning and dress shopping, so at least 12 months out would be great. Just stay away from the Brazilian barbeque joint.
Get as creative as possible if you like. Still, every bridesmaid proposal has to include the deets. A sweet, handwritten proposal letter with your wedding date and a heartfelt sentiment just for her is ideal.
Check out our post on will-you-be-my bridesmaid cards. There are some beauties in there you’ll be proud to present to your crew.
Honestly, if you’re broke and the thought of spending money on all the little things that have somehow become a tradition keeps you up at night, you don’t have to spend anything.
The perfect bridesmaid proposal idea is the one that ends with her agreeing to be your bridesmaid, no matter what gifts are exchanged along the way!
That said, spend as little or as much as you like, as long as what you give them is from the heart, and it’s something you know they’ll love.
However, we will caution you to learn from Helen (another Bridesmaids reference – that movie is soooo timely). It may be best to avoid overly lavish gifts if you think it may make anyone uncomfortable. Also, no one needs unsolicited puppies.
Treat Your Ladies Right
Before you say ‘I do’ in front of your friends, family, and the planet – you really should pop the question to your bridesmaids. A bridesmaid proposal gift is a beautiful way to do that, and what you give them will likely become a treasured keepsake.
Now go forth and party with your girls shamelessly!
Save THIS PIN to your Gift Ideas board on Pinterest so you can always find it when you need to!
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