I have been in several weddings.  I have the flasks to prove it.  For some reason the trend with groomsmen gifts always falls somewhere in the realm of engraved lighters or cuff links.  Gentlemen, I think it’s time we stepped our game up.

Your groomsmen are people that you have chosen to represent you at your wedding.  They are some of the most important people in your life.  They are your family, closest friends and soon to be in-laws.  I would hope you know them well enough to get them something they would truly appreciate and not just a cookie cutter gift.  This brings me to my three rules of shopping for your groomsmen’s gifts:

1.         Variety.  How many times have we seen all the groomsmen showing off their matching cuff links?   You’re already making them wear the same tuxedo.  Enough already.  Get each person a different item.  Everyone enjoys showing off a new gift.  Especially if it is different from what everyone else received.

2.         Personalized.  You know what these guys are like.  Prove it.  By ‘personalized’, I don’t mean putting their initials on something.  I mean get them something that really reflects who they are.  Got a friend that loves baseball?  Get him some game tickets.  Someone an avid golfer?  Get him that new club he’s had his eye on.   Let your gift reflect that you know their interests.

3.         Quality.  Between the cost of the tux, the wedding gift and travel, a member of your wedding party can easily spend a nice chunk of money.  Let your groomsmen know that you appreciate their time and money and get them something of quality.  Not necessarily expensive, but I would find it a little insulting if the glue holding my monogram onto my flask gave way two weeks after the wedding.  Make sure your gift is well made.

So unless you have a friend with a serious passion for cuff links, go the clever route and get your groomsmen something that reflects their personality.  And if you insist on getting them a flask, at least be thoughtful enough to fill it first.

Daring,

Michael

What’s the most original groomsman gift you’ve ever seen?

All photos courtesy of Google Image Search.