The bridesmaid gift is essential to the planning of a wedding. While many may believe that a wedding is all about the bride, it is still important to show appreciation to your bridesmaids. These are your right-hand ladies who have always been there for you. They have taken the time to be there and help you out on your special day and what better way of showing appreciation than getting them a bridesmaid gift. But how do you avoid getting a generic bridesmaid gift or something that they will just throw away when they get home?

Here are some bridesmaid gift guidelines that should help you in your pursuit of finding the perfect bridesmaid gift.

1. Make it Personal. The most important thing to remember when getting a bridesmaid gift is to get something personal. It is easy to give gift certificates or cards as gifts, but it is much more meaningful if you pick something out that you know they will enjoy. If you know their favorite actor/actress has a new movie out on DVD, get it for them along with some popcorn and candy. If they like to go to concerts, give them concert tickets to their favorite group. A personal and thoughtful gift demonstrates to your bridesmaid that you pay attention to them and their interests.
    
2. Keep it Simple. You do not have to worry about getting something incredibly elaborate for your bridesmaid gift. This is not your time to demonstrate that you are a natural Martha Stewart. Remember, this is your family and friends and they already know that this is not the case. Jewelry makes a great bridesmaid gift. Everyone likes to get jewelry and it does not require you to cross-stitch pillows for each bridesmaid. Anklets or earrings make simple but elegant gifts. There is no need to try to be crafty with your bridesmaid gift.
    
3. It does not have to be Expensive. Weddings are already incredibly expensive; do not let the bridesmaid gift add to your debt. An expensive bridesmaid gift is not expected from your bridesmaids. You do not need to prove your love to your bridesmaids by getting them something that cost you a lot of money, you just need to get them something that shows that you care. One idea is to get your bridesmaids some stationary. Stationary is not expensive, but is something that is useful and everyone can use. Another idea is getting each bridesmaid their favorite flowers. This shows you care without emptying your wallet. If you are really tight on cash, you can always right them a personal thank you note. Just remember that you do not need to buy the love of your bridesmaids with your gift.
    
4. Make it Tasteful. This is a request from someone who has been a bridesmaid several times. The cards that say "Maybe next time it will be you, but probably not" or "You don't look good in white anyway" get old real quick. I would stay clear from a gag bridesmaid gift unless you know for sure that your bridesmaids will really appreciate it. The bridesmaid gift is part of your wedding and you want it to be tasteful and appropriate to the occasion. A possible idea is getting your bridesmaids your favorite book. This is something that is tasteful, personal but doesn't require a lot of time or money. Also, you can give them a "relaxation kit" with your favorite scented candles and bath salts. Keep things elegant; your wedding is not a time for cheesy gifts.

While wedding plans can be very busy and even a little hectic, this does not mean you need to stress out about the bridesmaid gift. Remember to keep things simple and work on getting something that will be useful to the bridesmaids. Your bridesmaids will appreciate your effort.