Bridesmaid Box Ideas: "Propose" to Your Bridesmaids with This List of Items

Though not a necessary addition to your wedding, incorporating bridesmaids and groomsmen (or at least a maid of honor, bridesmaid, best man, or groomsman) into your “I dos” can be a fun bonding experience for you and your closest pals. There isn't just a single way to ask simply either... In recent years, couples have taken it upon themselves not only to request the presence of their inner circle, but to “propose” and "pop the question" to each of their bridal party members in one way or another.

Oftentimes, brides will send their closest friends "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?" notes, gift boxes, or specialized bridesmaid boxes for the ultimate bridesmaid proposal box. While this option is by no means required, for those with the creative energy, time, and willingness to put a bridesmaid proposal box together, why not send your ladies a gift box filled with items and sentiments asking them to join you on your big day?

"Will You Be My Bridesmaid?" gift options are growing in popularity, but what should you include in these bridesmaid gift packages? While there are a number of bridesmaid proposal gift options you can purchase online, sometimes it's easier to create a bridesmaid box from the heart. If you're in a DIY spirit, we've pulled together some of our favorite items for your bridesmaid proposal gift box. Below, find a list of items for your bridesmaids' boxes that we recommend including in your bridesmaid proposal box, as well as things we think you should leave out for the ultimate bridesmaid box:

A First-Aid or “Emergency” Kit 

Providing your future bridesmaid with a mini wedding survival package consisting of small wedding-day essentials is a fun and practical addition to a bridesmaid proposal box. Include items such as safety and bobby pins, pain-reliever pills, a stain-removal pen, etc. that will make all of the moments leading up to and on the big day a bit more stress-free. Since these items aren't necessarily "fun," be sure to include the other items suggested for a true "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?" gift.

A Few of Their Favorite Sweets

A gift box isn't complete without some sweet treats! If you’re able, subtly ask your friends what their favorite candies, cookies, or other treats are – perhaps you already know – and add small packages of those inside your bridesmaid proposal box. Who doesn’t love a few bites of their favorite sweet treat?

An Item with Their Name Displayed

Many brides like to include some kind of personalized bridesmaid gift – a water cup, coffee mug, champagne flute, etc. – in their bridesmaid proposal box. These are cute and practical – everyone loves to have something personalized for them! These gifts can also be included in getting-ready photos on the morning of the wedding! If not drinking vessels, perhaps consider purchasing small jewelry pieces that they can wear at the wedding events and beyond.

A Nail Polish Bottle

In all likelihood, you’ll know of at least a couple colors each friend of yours likes – perhaps glance at their social media accounts for ideas – so the addition of a fresh nail polish hue is a thoughtful and useful item to include in your proposal boxes. It's also a great way to subtly suggest to your friends the color manicure you want them to wear on your wedding day – consider choosing from this nail polish set!

A Great Face Mask

If all of your friends who you asked to be a bridesmaid love beauty products, including your favorite face mask (full size, travel size, or sheet mask) can be a great option to incorporate in the box! You can even include the product in a cool makeup bag, filled with hair ties, scrunchies, and other gift ideas related to health and beauty like lip balm, hand cream, or even a fragrant bath bomb or candle.

Personalized Jewelry or Accessories

Whether you ask your bridesmaids to wear matching jewelry on the wedding day or not,  a personalized accessory that they can always cherish is a wonderful addition to a bridesmaid box. A necklace, ring, bracelet, anklet, etc. can all be personalized with a beloved symbol, their full name, or their monogram or initials. Think of it as the grown-up friendship bracelet!

A Miniature Bottle of Their Favorite Beverage

If you’re unaware of your gals’ favorite alcoholic drinks, it’s a good idea to include a small bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine since those certainly call for celebration! Other than that, throw in something you know your loved one adores to help them celebrate your engagement and their new role as a bridesmaid. To go the extra mile, be sure to include a bottle opener or even a custom wine label to further customize your bridesmaid gifts.

What Not to Include in Your Bridesmaid Proposal Box: 

A Pre-Wedding Itinerary

Besides the wedding date and perhaps the rehearsal dinner, you shouldn’t be scheduling pre-wedding events yourself. Leave the organization of any later bridal showers and your bachelorette party up to your bridesmaids! Additionally, try not to plan a single day for bridesmaid dress shopping ahead of time – contact your girls directly to see what date/time works for them, or simply let them go on their own time. You don't want your gift to come across as your first sign of being a bridezilla!

Only Items with “Bridesmaid” Denoted

If you’ve personalized all of your bridesmaids’ gifts with the word "bridesmaid," they really won’t have much use for it in the future. Like we mentioned above, it's considerate to customize your "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?" items with your friends’ names in order for them to utilize the presents for years to come.

Anything Too Costly

Keep in mind that you don’t need to break the bank with these gift boxes – you’re likely paying for your wedding as well, and your friends will understand that! What’s more, many brides also provide small gifts on the day of the wedding, so spacing these items out is a smart move. Of course, the way you propose to your bridesmaids is up to you, but keep in mind that any special thought (even just a handwritten note) will be much appreciated by your closest friends.