by Jaid Chambers

So you and your bride to be have finally decided to get married. In case you didn't realize, this is a great time to let your friends know exactly how much their support and effort means to both you and your fiancee. One of the best ways to show this appreciation is to give each of your groomsmen, and bridesmaids' small bridal party favors as a token gift. If you're searching for ideas, below are a few suggestions to get your creative juices flowing

For the men involved in your wedding, bridal party favors should be classy and simple. Most men won't know what to do with a gift filled with ribbon and lace, so try to stay away from that stuff. I have found that most gentlemen in question enjoy favors that are easily held in the hand, are useful, and don't give the impression that they got them in the course of a wedding.

Because of this, perhaps one of the best party favors out there is something akin to a quality money clip. Another option is something as simple as a tie clasp or cuff links. Despite what they may tell you, sooner or later your fraternity brothers will have to wear a suit again, and both those bridal keepsakes will come in handy.

The ladies in your bridal party offer you a lot more available choices, but that often makes choosing the best series of favors for the bridal shower guests more of a daunting task. Again though, the best thing is to keep it simple and elegant. The last thing you want is for your maid of honor and bridesmaids to hold up their bridal party favors in confusion and wonderment, only to hurriedly place them in the back of the closet never to be seen again.

One of the best choices for the ladies that have been such a wonderful part of your life, especially over the last few months is a small piece of jewelry, hopefully something that matches or compliments the bridal party colors. It's a good idea, however, to stay away from pierced earrings since not everyone has pierced ears.

Of course, there is a way to make any of the bridal party favors you decide to get truly memorable. It costs a few dollars more in each case, but oftentimes, engraving is truly worth the extra effort.

The money clip showing your best man's initials is a great bridal party favor to show him that his unique talents and support was so appreciated. A pendant with the childhood pictures of the maid of honor and the bride inside would be one of the most treasured bridal favors you could offer to your fiancee's best friend.

No matter how you choose to recognize your friends in the party of your wedding, make sure they know exactly how much you appreciate them. Bridal party favors do not have to be anything really expensive or outlandish, but they should come from the heart of both you and your bride. Just remember to keep your bridal party favors simple, elegant, and easily used by the person receiving them.