Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime celebrations that bring together all your loved ones to witness and honor the union of you and your future spouse. Traditionally, wedding thank you gifts have been an integral part of weddings, allowing happy couples to express their gratitude and appreciation for the presence and support of their loved ones and guests. While guests commonly present gifts to the newlyweds, it’s worth exploring the individuals and groups you may consider when deciding on your gift-giving recipients.

Parents and Close Relatives

One of the most meaningful gestures a bride and groom can make is presenting gifts to their parents and close relatives. Parents, especially, play an irreplaceable role in shaping their children’s lives and supporting them throughout their journey. A heartfelt gift can serve as a token of appreciation for their love, guidance, and lifelong commitment. Similarly, close relatives such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles who have made a significant impact in your life can also be recognized with meaningful gifts to express gratitude.

Photo albums or custom photo books make wonderful gifts for parents and close relatives. The opportunity to include specific treasured memories as you honor those closest to you can elicit a genuine emotional reaction in your recipient. Include photos of special moments and memories shared between you over the years, and make sure to tell them how much you appreciate them and their constant, unwavering role in your life.

Personalized jewelry like pendants, bracelets, watches, or cuff links make gorgeous gifts and can be customized with initials, a meaningful quote, or a special date. Handwritten letters are also excellent gift choices for parents and close family members.

Wedding Party Members

The wedding party (consisting of bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honor, best man, flower girl, ring bearer, ushers, and other close friends or family members) often dedicates significant time and effort to making your wedding day memorable. Recognizing their contributions with thoughtful gifts is a beautiful way to show your appreciation. Consider personalized gifts that reflect their personalities or items that hold sentimental value to strengthen the bond between you and your wedding party.

Personalized keepsakes such as engraved jewelry, monogrammed tote bags, custom photo frames or personalized flasks all make excellent wedding party gifts. These items not only express your gratitude, but they also serve as a memento from your special day.

Spa or self-care packages, or experience gifts, are meaningful ways to show your gratitude to your wedding party. Planning a wedding can be highly stressful, and the wedding party is actively involved in ensuring your day goes smoothly. A day at the spa, tickets to a concert, a cooking class, or even a weekend getaway are all innovative ways to show them how much you appreciate them and all they’ve done for you.

If your gift is something they’ll need for the wedding day, wait to give it to them at the rehearsal dinner or the morning of the wedding so it’s not lost or forgotten before then.

Officiant or Clergy

If you have chosen an officiant or a clergy member to preside over the wedding ceremony, it is customary to express gratitude for their services. A meaningful gift, such as a handwritten note, a personalized item, or a donation to a cause they support, can convey your heartfelt appreciation for their role in making your ceremony special and sacred.

Vendors and Service Providers

Weddings involve a wide array of vendors and service providers who work tirelessly to ensure the smooth execution of the event. From photographers and caterers to florists and musicians, each professional creates a memorable experience. While it is not obligatory to present gifts to every vendor, a considerate gesture, such as a handwritten thank-you note or a small token of appreciation, can go a long way in acknowledging their efforts and building positive relationships.

Charitable Contributions

An increasingly popular trend in wedding thank you gifts involves making charitable donations in lieu of traditional presents. You can choose a cause or organization that holds personal significance to you both, and request that guests contribute towards it instead of purchasing you individual gifts. This approach allows you to support a worthy cause while making a positive impact in the world, reflecting your values as you embark on your new journey together.

Some great Kansas City charities you may want to benefit:

  • Variety KC – provides children with developmental disabilities the adaptive equipment needed for activity and inclusion
  • KC Pet Project – creates a safe and compassionate space for pets through lifesaving programs and services
  • Lead to Read KC – helps elementary students build strong social and emotional skills through reading mentorship
  • Vibrant Health – provides access to healthcare for the community regardless of socio-economic obstacles

Wedding Guests

Your wedding would be an elopement without your guests, and it’s customary to show gratitude for the time and attention your guests put into being present to witness and celebrate this unforgettable step in your relationship. Wedding guest favors range from individually wrapped sweets and baked goods for guests to take home, to framed engagement photos, to simple candles or custom gifts, and everything in between. Your primary purpose in providing a wedding favor to your guests is to make them feel appreciated and seen; how you decide to accomplish this is entirely up to you.

Here are some modern takes on guest favors, from right here in Kansas City:

When it comes to wedding thank you gifts, couples have several options to consider beyond the traditional reception of gifts from guests. By extending gifts to your parents, close relatives, wedding party members, officiants, vendors and guests, you can express your gratitude to those who have played pivotal roles in your lives and in the wedding itself. Additionally, opting for charitable contributions is a meaningful way to give back and share the joy of your union with others. Ultimately, the choice of whom to give gifts to rests with the two of you, and it should be guided by your personal relationships, values, and your desire to foster long lasting connections with your loved ones.

Enjoy Wedding Thank You Gifts? Ready to start finding vendors for your wedding? Check out our collection of Kansas City Wedding Vendors.