subject: Maidenly Pleasures [print this page] It seems rather quaint that here in the 21st century we still adhere to customs and practices of the past. Why would we hang on to these things? The easiest answer is probably because we like to keep some customs alive even though they may be somewhat outdated.
So why do we have bridesmaids? Well, some countries have different reasons for the maids. At one time it was thought that someone would commit an evil deed at a wedding so all the bridesmaids would dress in the same style as the bride to confuse the evildoer. Others say that the maids would gather on the night prior to the wedding to undo the brides single plait and make two plats to denote that she was now part of two people. Traditionally the bride should be blindfolded and placed in a circle of bridesmaids and made to spin. Wherever she stopped, the maid facing her would be the next to get married. In yet other countrie, and indeed this one has lasted even up to today, the bride throws her bouquet over her shoulder to all the single ladies and whoever catches it is the next one to wed.
These days it is customary for the bridesmaids to throw a bridal shower for the bride some time before the day to shower her with gifts to help her start her new home. They could also be involved in organizing the hen party where the ladies go out and have one last fling as a single crowd before the big day arrives.
Whatever the reasons, bridesmaids certainly bring a splash of color to the wedding by wearing the predominant color theme of the day. Even the flowers are matched to their pretty dresses and the theme is echoed through to the wedding reception and decorations. It used to be that they all wore identical dresses (perhaps a throwback to the evildoer trick mentioned earlier) but it is quite acceptable for the maids to all wear the same color material but in differing styles so that they show off a little of their individuality. The chief bridesmaid, or matron of honor if she is already married, will normally wear something different to denote her importance. She takes on a leading role in that she makes sure all the maids are where they should be and also makes sure the bride is ready well before the time of the wedding.
The tradition of giving a small piece of wedding cake to the single ladies to take home also has its roots in the past. It was thought that they could put it beneath their pillows on the night of the wedding and dream of their beau or bridegroom to be. Hopefully this was a good thing!
For these tasks it has become customary for them to receive a gift as a thank you for helping out on the day. These gifts are usually given from both the bride and groom and are sometimes presented at the wedding reception itself. If it is a gift of jewelry, however, they sometimes are given the gift before the wedding so that it can be worn to the ceremony. Either way is quite acceptable and it is up to individual taste which routine is followed.
Choosing the gift for each maid can be rather confusing. Should you give each something different? Or should they all receive the same item? These days, and probably as an act of fairness, and not to show any favoritism, most people will give identical gifts to all but the matron of honor or chief bridesmaid. These latter helpers will get something a little extra to denote their special place at the wedding itself.
Possibly the most common gift to give bridesmaids as a bridesmaid's gift is a piece of jewelry. And here there is a plethora of choice. First and foremost the cost of the gift has to be decided upon. Dont forget that this has to be multiplied by the number of maids. If the budget is tight, this will take up quite a chunk of it. However, there are many reasonably priced pieces that are absolutely presentable and any maid would be pleased to receive it. Remember too that pearls never go out of fashion and a string of cultured pearls or similar could possibly be treasured for a lifetime.
Gold or silver neck chains, with or without pendants, are a favorite choice. If the pendant style is chosen they can be personalized with the date of the wedding, the maids initials or name, or something similar. Necklace and earring sets are also popular but try to find out if all the maids have pierced (or not pierced) ears before the gift is purchased.
Silver photo frames with the happy couples photograph installed, plus an engraving of their names and date etc is also a good choice but not for very young maids. Perhaps a beautifully crafted photo album or diary is a suitable gift with some wedding photos, including the maid, added to start the collection.
For older bridesmaids there is nothing better than a gift basket full of good things to encourage them to relax after the big day. There are many styles available but most women would really appreciate one filled with exotic massage oils, bath goodies, scented candles and facial treatments. Throw in a beautiful bathrobe embroidered with the maids initials or name and you have the perfect gift!
In these days of superwomen many would appreciate a superb piece of leather luggage. Perhaps a weekend bag or computer case embellished with a monogram of the maids initials. Even designer handbags would be more than welcome but find out who their favorite designers are first.
Whatever the gift, be it a silver key fob or a gold ring, a personalized photo frame or a unique piece of jewelry, always remember to include a personal note of thanks to make it something extra special and remembrance of a day that they will never forget.
