Saying a proper "thank you" is always important no matter what the occasion. In the case of a wedding, thanking your wedding party is even more important because of the time and expense involved in their participation.

They customary way to thank the members of the wedding is to buy them a gift that will show them how much you appreciate what they have done. Dianne M. Daniels, certified member of the Association of Image Consultants International and author of the book / self-study course: Polish & Presence: 31 Days to a New Image, provided the following tips to help you make a meaningful selection:

• When choosing gifts for groomsmen, allow time to have the gifts personalized with the date and occasion if it's appropriate. This can take up to 8 weeks from the time your order your items.
   
• Choose a gift that has meaning for the two of you but also relates to your feelings about the groomsmen and attendants. Think of shared experiences, common interests in activities or books, and what will be most widely accepted.
   
• To keep costs reasonable, choose the same gift for all of your attendants, perhaps only differing between men and women. A universal gift like an engraved or imprinted pen, carafe or mug would serve both genders.
  |
• Poll your attendants to see what they might like to receive as gifts, that way you'll be sure to get them something they want and it might turn out to be less expensive and more special that you had previously planned.

Personal Shopper/Fashion Consultant Stephanie Pendersen, author of numerous books including KISS Guide To Planning A Wedding, says that when it comes to wedding party gifts, you should think luxury. "These people are important to you and have done a lot in helping you create your big day. They deserve something really special, something they wouldn't buy for themselves."

She loves the idea of giving gifts that the wedding party can use at the wedding, as well as things that can be used for other occasions. One of her favorite gifts for the bridal party is a lush silk shawl from indigo handloom (www.indigohandloom.com). Stephanie says that these are so much more chic than the pashminas that were in style seasons and seasons ago. Because you know what your bridal party is wearing, you can choose the appropriate color and material. She added that you should wrap the shawls with a real cloth ribbon and place them where bridesmaids can find them.

Another great gift is a gorgeous, roomy makeup bag filled with a generous supply of high-end makeup--think Chanel, MAC, Laura Mercier. What woman doesn't love makeup? Especially if it is a splurgey brand she doesn't normally buy for herself.

For men, high-quality, silver or gold cuff links are a traditional, but great gift (www.redenvelop.com has nice offerings.). Box them beautifully, and, again, leave them where the groomsmen will find them. If you're looking for something a bit less traditional, gift certificates for lessons are perfect. Cooking lessons, parasailing lessons, a beer-tasting class, there is no limit to what you can give as a gift.

Remember, no matter what you decide, the secret to a thoughtful wedding party present according to Stephanie is to splurge on something the recipients wouldn't consider getting for themselves.