What to Put in a Bridesmaid Gift Bag: The Ultimate Guide for UK Brides
Your bridesmaids have said yes, shown up to every appointment, and supported you through all the excitement (and stress) of planning your big day. A thoughtful bridesmaid gift bag is one of the nicest ways to say thank you. But knowing what to put in a bridesmaid gift bag can feel tricky, especially when you want each one to feel personal and special.
This guide walks you through everything you need to fill the perfect bridesmaid gift bag, from the bag itself to the finishing touches inside.
Why a Personalised Bridesmaid Gift Bag Makes Such a Big Difference
Before we get into what goes inside, let us talk about the bag itself. A plain carrier bag does the job, but a personalised bridesmaid gift bag takes things to a whole new level. It tells your bridesmaid that you took time to make something just for her.
At Cookies and Koalas, we create beautiful custom bridesmaid gift bags with names, initials, or short messages printed right on the bag. They come in luxury finishes, including foil-printed and matte options, so your bridal party gifts look stunning before they are even opened.
A personalised bag also doubles as a keepsake. Your bridesmaids can reuse it long after the wedding day is over.
What to Put in a Bridesmaid Gift Bag: 10 Thoughtful Ideas
Here are some of the best ideas for filling a bridesmaid gift bag. You can mix and match these to suit your budget and your bridesmaids' personalities.
1. A Personalised Photo Slate or Acrylic Photo Block
One of the most sentimental things you can include in a bridesmaid gift bag is a personalised photo gift. At Cookies and Koalas, our photo slates and acrylic photo blocks let you print a favourite photo of you and your bridesmaid, along with a name, date, or message.
This is the kind of gift that does not just sit in a drawer. It goes on a shelf or a desk, and every time she looks at it, she will think of your wedding day.
Photo slates have a beautiful rustic feel, while acrylic blocks give a sleek, modern look. Both are popular choices as unique bridesmaid gift ideas because they are so personal.
2. A Luxurious Candle
Candles are a safe bet for almost anyone. Choose a scent that feels warm and relaxing, like vanilla, rose, or sandalwood. Wrap it in tissue paper and place it in the bottom of the bag for a cosy touch. Pair it with a small handwritten note for extra warmth.
3. Skincare and Pamper Products
Think face masks, bath salts, a mini body scrub, or a nice hand cream. These are brilliant bridesmaid thank you gifts because they are practical and feel indulgent. Your bridesmaids will love being able to wind down with a pamper night after the wedding is over.
If you know your bridesmaids well, you can tailor this section to their favourite brands or skin types.
4. Jewellery for the Wedding Day
A pair of earrings or a delicate bracelet that matches the wedding colour scheme is a lovely double gift. Your bridesmaid gets to wear it on the day, and she gets to keep it as a reminder of your wedding long afterwards.
This works especially well as part of bridesmaid proposal gifts if you are asking them to be in your bridal party and want to include something wearable.
5. A Personalised Gift Box Inside the Bag
If you really want to go all out, consider placing a personalised gift box inside the bag. Our luxury magnetic gift boxes at Cookies and Koalas come in colours like Blush Pink, Ivory, Navy, and Grey to match your wedding theme.
You can layer your smaller gifts inside the box, wrap them in tissue paper, and tuck everything into the bridesmaid gift bag. The result looks incredible and feels like a true luxury experience.
This combination works perfectly as bridal party gifts when you want the whole presentation to feel polished and premium.
6. A Small Bottle of Prosecco or Champagne
A mini bottle of fizz adds a fun and celebratory touch to any bridesmaid gift bag. Tie a ribbon around the neck and add a tag with her name on it. It is a simple addition that always goes down well.
7. Chocolates or Sweet Treats
This is one of those things that everyone loves but rarely buys for themselves. A small box of luxury chocolates, personalised sweets, or a bag of gourmet popcorn adds a fun and tasty surprise to the gift bag.
If you want to go the extra mile, look for chocolates that can be personalised with a message or the wedding date.
8. A Personalised Mug or Tumbler
A mug or tumbler with her name or a funny bridesmaid quote on it is a practical gift she will actually use. It is one of those personalised bridesmaid gifts UK options that feels thoughtful without being too expensive.
Fill it with a few hot chocolate sachets, a tea selection, or some coffee pods to make it feel even more complete.
9. A Silk or Satin Sleep Mask
Comfortable, stylish, and genuinely useful, a sleep mask is a great small gift for a bridesmaid gift bag. Pair it with a few skincare products, and she has a lovely little pamper kit ready to go.
If you can find one that can be personalised with her name or initials, even better.
10. A Heartfelt Handwritten Card
Do not underestimate how much a handwritten note means. Among all your bridesmaid gift bag ideas, this one costs almost nothing but means the most. Tell her what she means to you, thank her for being part of your day, and make it personal.
Place the card at the top of the bag so it is the first thing she sees when she opens it.
How to Put Together the Perfect Bridesmaid Gift Bag
Now that you know what to include, here is a simple way to put it all together.
Step 1: Start with the bag. Choose a bridesmaid gift bag from Cookies and Koalas and have each bridesmaid's name or a short message printed on it. This sets the tone straight away.
Step 2: Add a base layer. Place heavier items like a gift box, candle, or bottle of prosecco at the bottom of the bag.
Step 3: Fill with smaller items. Tuck in skincare products, chocolates, jewellery, and your mug or tumbler.
Step 4: Add tissue paper. Layer tissue paper between items to keep everything in place and make the bag look fuller and more luxurious.
Step 5: Place the card on top. Finish with your heartfelt handwritten card sitting right at the top.
Step 6: Add a ribbon. Tie a ribbon around the handles to finish the look. Choose a colour that matches your wedding theme.
When Should You Give Your Bridesmaid Gift Bags?
There is no single right answer, but here are the most popular moments.
The hen party: If you want to kick off the celebrations in style, handing out bridesmaid gift bags at the hen do is a lovely way to start.
The morning of the wedding: Many brides choose to give gifts on the morning of the big day, while everyone is getting ready. It is an emotional and joyful moment.
The rehearsal dinner: If you are having a rehearsal dinner the night before, this is another great time to hand out your bridal party gifts.
Bridesmaid Proposal Gifts: A Special Version of the Gift Bag
If you are still in the planning stages and asking your bridesmaids to join your bridal party, a bridesmaid proposal gift is a beautiful way to pop the question.
Fill a smaller gift bag with a proposal card, a little token like a charm or candle, and a personalised item with her name on it. At Cookies and Koalas, we can create personalised bags specifically for bridesmaid proposals so the whole package looks and feels special from the very start.
Why Shop at Cookies and Koalas for Your Bridesmaid Gifts?
If you are looking for personalised bridesmaid gifts UK that are genuinely thoughtful and beautifully made, Cookies and Koalas is the place to start.
Here is what makes us different:
- Free personalisation on all of our gift bags, boxes, and photo gifts
- Free shipping on all orders over £30
- Fast dispatch, so you are not left worrying about delivery
- Unique designs that you will not find on the high street
- Luxury finishes, including foil printing, matte bags, and magnetic gift boxes
We are a small UK business with a genuine love for making gifts feel extra special. Every item we send out is made with care, and we want your bridesmaids to feel as excited to receive their gifts as you were to choose them.
Browse our full range of personalised wedding gifts bags and find the perfect combination for your bridal party.
Final Thoughts on Bridesmaid Gift Bag Ideas
Knowing what to put in a bridesmaid gift bag comes down to thinking about what your bridesmaids will love and what will remind them of your special day for years to come. A mix of personal, practical, and sentimental items always works well.
Start with a beautiful personalised bag, add a photo slate or gift box, fill it with treats and thoughtful touches, and finish with a heartfelt card. Keep it personal, keep it warm, and your bridesmaids will love every single thing inside.
Ready to get started? Visit Cookies and Koalas and explore our range of personalised gift bags, gift boxes, and photo gifts made right here in the UK.
Related Posts You Might Like:
- Unique Hen Party Gift Bag Ideas
- The Best Personalised Wedding Gift Ideas for Couples
- How to Create the Perfect Bridal Party Gift Box
Cookies and Koalas | Personalised Gift Bags, Boxes & Photo Gifts | Free UK Shipping on Orders Over £30
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Q: How much should you spend on a bridesmaid gift bag in the UK?
Ans: You can spend between £10 and £50 per bridesmaid. It depends on your budget and the number of bridesmaids.
Q: Can bridesmaid gift bags be the same for everyone?
Ans: Yes, they can be the same, but adding a small personal touch makes them special. You can keep the main items identical and include one personalised item for each bridesmaid.
Q: Should bridesmaid gift bags match the wedding theme?
Ans: Matching your gift bags with your wedding theme is a great idea. You can choose colours, fonts, and styles that reflect your overall wedding look for a more cohesive feel.
Q: Can bridesmaid gift bags be given after the wedding?
Ans: Yes, you can give them after the wedding as a thank-you gift. This is a good option if you want to include photos or memories from the day.