How Do I Decide on Groomsmen Gifts?

Ahhhh shopping. Most guys are very lucky that their sweet bride is taking care of so many of the purchasing decisions when it comes to the wedding. You end up just giving your input on big questions like "Where will we have the reception?" or "What church or location will be get married at?" or "Where do you want to go for the honeymoon?"

Somewhere during the wedding planning process, the bride asks "What are you doing for your groomsmen gifts?" It's like she spoke in another language. What? You have to shop for something. You most likely respond with something like "Oh, I'm getting that wrapped up this week. I'm almost done." Now the mad dash is on for you to decide on your groomsmen gifts and get them ordered and delivered to your door. Then you will be ready to distribute them to your groomsmen at the bachelor party or at the rehearsal dinner.

Some things to consider when thinking about your groomsmen gifts are as follows:

1. How much can I spend per guy? If you are having a large (200+ guests) wedding, you probably will spend in the $50 to $100 range for each groomsman. If you're having a smaller, intimate ceremony, then $20-$40 is probably what you'll go for.

2. Should I get accessories the guys can use while wearing their tuxedos? Most guys do not have cufflinks or a money clip. Cufflinks add some personality and really complete the look of the formal men's wear. Money clips are nice because then you don't have to carry around a fat leather wallet in your sleek tuxedo. Nothing worse than a big rectangular bulge in a tuxedo pocket. Not attractive.

3. My guys aren't the type that would appreciate cufflinks. Nothing wrong with being a regular blue collar guy. This guy would probably like something he can use. A pocket knife, a Leatherman multitool, a mug, anything like this is perfect for the practical guy.

4. My guys drink like fish. Well, ta da… drum roll please, a flask is ideal. If you get flasks, be sure to order them so that you have them in plenty of time to take along on the bachelor party.

5. Do I get the gift engraved? A resounding yes. There is something about a wedding attendant gift that calls for going that extra mile to make the gift more meaningful and special. That's where engraving comes in. If you personalize an item with someone's name or initials, you are telling that person that you care and really wanted to do something special for them. It tells them that you took extra time to make the gift into a keepsake that they will remember forever. Everyone likes to feel special.

6. Can I just let my mom or bride take care of the groomsmen gifts? No! Don't take the easy way out. These gifts are supposed to be picked out by you, thought about by you and bought by you and given to your friends. I know it is tempting but don't let any of the ladies take over this purchase. The meaning and sentimental value of these gifts will be lost of you don't put in some effort.

The best advice when it comes to groomsmen gifts is truly to not wait until the last minute. Many grooms get so caught up in all the other wedding planning and activities that they tend to put this purchase off until the final weeks. Do yourself a favor so that you don't stress out. Order your gifts at least two months prior to the wedding date. Then you will have plenty of time to get the items personalized. And, even if there is a stock issue or a special order, you'll still have enough time to get your gifts delivered and in your hand when it counts.

Lisa Gunther is a personalized gifts expert and owner of Gunther Gifts Inc., an engraving superstore that ships nationwide. Online since 1999, Gunther has you covered for wedding favors, groomsmen gifts, bridesmaid gifts and any personalized gifts for men and women that you might need for special occasions.