While you've been busy helping your fiancée pick out invitations, reception music and seating charts, your groomsmen have been getting fitted for tuxedos, writing speeches and planning a bachelor party. To show your groomsmen how much you appreciate their help (and friendship), it's customary to give each of them a gift. Luckily for you, we've compiled a list of gift suggestions that's guaranteed to help you find the perfect gift for any groomsman.
How much to spend
While the answer on how much to spend depends largely on your budget, generally a minimum of $30 per groomsman is appropriate, with potentially something extra for the best man. That said, $30 is a minimum, and you're likely to spend a bit more. It's better to err on the side of caution and spend a bit more. These are your best buddies, after all, and you probably haven't bought them a "serious" gift, ever. Now's your chance to say thanks.
Ready to wear
A popular idea for some grooms is to buy a clothing accessory that matches the tuxedo that will be worn on the wedding day. All of the following options are great not only because they can be used more than once, but also because it ensures your buddies will look almost as good as you do on the big day.
Cuff links : Whether your buddy is a Dapper Dan or not, every guy needs a pair of cuff links for those special occasions.
Dress Shirt: If you are renting tuxedos, there is no reason to wear the hyper-starched and 20% cotton shirt that is provided in the package. Additionally, you could simply present a well-made dress shirt as the gift itself. Ask the guys for their (predicted) measurements and get them a nice dress shirt. It need not necessarily be a tuxedo shirt (so long as vests are worn). For long lasting quality, have bespoke shirts made through Michael Andrews Bespoke. Many shirt makers have easy-to-follow guides that describe how to take the necessary measurements. "The measuring process is easier than most people think," reports Michael Mantegna, CEO of Michael Andrews Bespoke, "and nothing compares to the look and feel of a well-crafted custom shirt."
Wristwatch : There's nothing more functional than a time piece that gets them to the church on time. You are likely to spend at least $100 to $150 on such a watch, but it will be useful for them. Avoid having it engraved - just a nice watch will do. If your groomsmen already have wristwatches or have more expensive tastes, read on.
Executive Pen: While you don't need to shell out for a Montblanc, you can purchase well crafted pens from New York purveyor, Joon Pens, without breaking the bank. Look for Pelikan or Lamy. These need not be fountain pens (which are nice, but often impractical) but can be rollerball pens. Anyone will tell you a fancy pen is better than those 10 cent ballpoints the office provides.
Engraved Money Clip: Nobody likes losing money, nor carrying around a man-purse. This is a perfect alternative to more expensive items.
Handy tools
Giving a gift that gets used often is always better than giving one that inevitably ends up sitting in a drawer. Even if your buddies aren't smokers, there are plenty of great gifts that will get used daily:
Pocketknife: A perfect companion for any pocket. It's amazing how often these little guys come in handy. It is a perfect addition to glove compartments everywhere.
Desk caddy : A great way to organize house keys, change, credit cards and more.
Toolbox : Help him get organized where it counts with a toolbox. Throw in a hammer and Phillips screwdriver if you're feeling generous.
Food and drink
Let's face it, every guy loves eating - and more than a few of us are social drinkers. Get the party started with some of these ideas:
Beer of the Month subscription : Exotic beers from all corners of the globe sent right to your door - what could be better?
Engraved cork/bottle opener : Whether their preference is fine wine or working-class beer, they've got to get at that alcohol somehow.
BBQ kit : Get invited to more barbeques by giving your buddies another excuse to fire up the grill.
Steaks : Nothing says "thank you" like a big slab of beef. Get it delivered to their door through a service like Omaha Steaks.
Steak brander: Have a custom brander made with your buddy's initials so everyone knows which chef to thank.
Sports and outdoors
Sports and men go hand in hand. No matter what sport your crew is into, there are plenty of cool gifts to give.
Golf gear : Portable coolers, custom-inked golf balls, those stylish golf knickers - the possibilities are endless
Tickets to a game : Make a day at the game on you.
Excursions : Feeling adventurous? Sign everyone up for skydiving, bungee jumping or other adrenaline-filled activity. Or, for something more tame, a camping or canoeing trip can be a great way to reconnect.
Outside the (gift)Box
Thinking outside of the box is a surefire way of showing your buddies how much they mean to you. With a little thought, you can really wow them.
Shares of stock : Companies like OneShare.com sell stock for companies such as Nike, Apple and Starbucks that come with a custom plaque.
Shaving kit : Waking up to a nice razor set is a great way to get the 9 to 5 started right.
MP3 player : Get them through the drudgery of the work day with the gift of music. Many (such as the iPod shuffle) can be found for under $100.
Giving a gift tailored to their hobbies or interests is a great way to ensure success. And if your groomsmen all have different personalities, don't feel like you have to give everyone the same gift. As long as you stay in the same price range, no one should feel ripped off or jealous. Put some thought into it, make it personal, and you should have a happy group of groomsmen come wedding day.
