Great Gifts!

So for the last 2 years of my life, it’s been wedding season! I’ve hit that age where many of my dearest friends are taking the walk down the aisle. I have been fortunate to get to study wedding variations and etiquette before it is in fact my turn to take that trip. Because of it, I have officially turned into the lame girl with a bridal file both in my cabinet and on my computer. I’ve made notes about dress styles, centerpieces, even china patterns. I know, ridiculous right?! At least I’m doing it at age 25 rather than when I was 12!

The most interesting thing that I have noticed is the practice of the bridal party gift. In many cases, it’s been something to wear on the wedding day such as a tie, for the gentlemen, or jewelry for the ladies.

Now I wouldn’t say that I would wear all of the bridesmaid dresses again, however I have noticed my jewelry box filling up with some really fantastic pieces that I felt I had to share.

~My friend Tori gave us a fresh water pearl set~

~Erin matched the hue of the pearls to our chocolate dresses. What is this face I am making?!~

~Deanna gave us a very versatile and beautiful Swarovski crystal bracelet. Again with a weird face!~

~Last weekend my cousin Kelly got married and gave us beautiful purple lacquer necklaces~

My reason for sharing this is that brides go through so much to plan their day and it really is an honor to be included in those plans. Each wedding is different and while you might not wear the dress again, jewelry is very adaptable and stays in vogue. So for all of you blushing brides out there who are getting ready for your big day, don’t forget about those gals helping you get there and pick them up something nice!

**As a side not about bridesmaid gowns: Consider this- Dying a dress or taking up the hem on a gown is an easy, cost effective way to revamp a dress and turn it into something you’ll wear again and again. If you’re not interested in keeping it, pay it forward by selling it at a consignment shop or making a tax-deductible donation to Good Will. Some boutiques even have dress swaps or specific dress donation sites for girls who need help getting prom dresses. Giving is always in style**