Weddings wound down for the pandemic but now it seems couples are making up for lost time which means bachelor and bachelorette parties are back in full swing too. If you’ve been invited to one, you’re probably wondering if you should bring a gift or not.
💸 Considering the Cost
The median amount dished out by those attending bachelor and bachelorette parties is $1,500. In addition, there are expenses like travel, lodging, clothing, and a wedding present. A recent poll concluded that 52% of all bach and bach-ette guests took on credit card debt to foot the bill for the shindig.
With all things considered, is it necessary to bring a gift to the occasion as well? Etiquette experts think not. But, if you don’t want to risk being the only non-gift bearer, you may want to do your own research.
Check the invite
If your invitation mentions the bride or groom being registered or lists gift suggestions, you might want to bring along a gift.
Ask Around
If you know any of the other guests who are going, ask to see if they are bringing a gift. The majority rules.
“On the safe side” stash
If you’re unsure whether to bring a gift or not and don’t want to be put on the spot, one way or the other, you can always bring along a returnable gift and keep it in your car for “just in case”.
If you spot other guests bringing gifts, you can run back out and grab the present and if not, return or keep it.
Ask the host
If all else fails, you can always ask the host or hostess who is throwing the party. Remember, there’s no such thing as a dumb question. Right?
Viable alternative
If the bachelor or bachelorette party doesn’t include the group picking up the tab for the guest of honor, you can pay for a drink or two, dinner, or another expense at the party rather than actually bringing a gift.
Just do it!
You certainly can’t lose by getting the bride or groom to be a gift if you can afford to do so. According to The Knot, it’s a good idea to share some special moments with the guest of honor alone so you can present your gift if it turns out not everyone (or anyone) is giving one.
You are obviously a close friend or you wouldn’t be invited so why not show how much you care with a gift, large or small?
🌟 Gifting Inspiration
The price of everything has skyrocketed in recent times. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties are no exception.
If you are taking a gift, whether by your own choice or because of obligation, here are some creative ways to save money:
Is there a theme?
Some bachelor and bachelorette parties have a theme such as “Last Splash Mermaid” or “No Escape Escape Room”.
In the event that your party will have a theme, you can always bring along a fun, not-so-expensive gift to have on hand.
Going in as a group
It’s not unusual for guests at a bach or bach-ette party to pitch in together for a group gift.
Group gifting is a great, affordable solution to the age-old question of whether to bring a present or not.
Basket case
Putting together a nice basket takes pressure off because if the bride-to-be doesn’t particularly care for one item, there are plenty more.
You can go with a centralized theme such as “Mermaid”. From mermaid themed soap and candles to notepads with mermaids on them, you are sure to find plenty of fun and inexpensive items to fill the basket.
For the groom-to-be, if the theme is “Super Heros”, pick up comic books, a T-shirt, and even a pair of super hero socks.
Or, choose your own theme, like luxury bath items or just fill the basket with whatever you please with no theme at all.
Homemade and heartfelt
If you are crafty or skilled in sewing, crochet, or knitting, why not create something from your heart? Handmade gifts are priceless so what you spend on the supplies is irrelevant.
Picture perfect
Another great gift that won’t cost an arm and a leg is to take a photo and have it enlarged.
The photo can be funny, sentimental, romantic, even one that was taken years ago.
It can be of the bride or groom-to-be or just of one. You can even be in the picture if you’d like.
Choose a frame to match the mood of the photo and have it personalized if you want to. It’s a timeless gift that’s sure to bring a smile…or a laugh.
Plan ahead
If you want to give a gift at a bachelor or bachelorette party and know about it ahead of time, you can watch for sales.
For instance, if you have in mind to give lingerie, keep your eyes peeled for bargains – online and in stores. Comparison shopping will help you get the best buy too.
🎁 Popular Bachelor and Bachelorette Party Gifts
If you want to give a gift to the bride or groom to be but are at a loss, here are some of the most given:
Groom To Be:
- Funny bachelor t-shirt
- Personalized knife
- Groom highball glass
- Customized tumbler
- Old fashioned shaving kit
- Gift card
- Humorous socks
- Personalized photo briefs
- Bottle of favorite liquor or case of beer
Bride To Be:
- Cosmetic bag for bride
- Scented candle
- Bath spa items (lotion, body spray, scented soap)
- Personalized photo socks
- Bottle of favorite wine or champagne
- Lacy nightwear
- Bride slippers
- Gourmet coffee subscription
✌️ Gracefully Bowing Out from Gift Giving
If you are a part of the wedding party, you are no doubt being stretched thin financially. Even if you find out other guest are taking gifts to the bachelor or bachelorette party, don’t feel obligated to do so yourself. If you are strapped for cash or simply feel you are doing your fair share without a gift, go in grace with your chin up. Your presence is worth far more than your presents if the guest of honor is a true friend.
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