The Perfect Gift for Your Bridesmaids

By: Kristina Grish


Think back to your days as a bridesmaid -- the time and energy spent organizing showers, stuffing envelopes, lending opinions, calming nerves. Of course you were always happy to help out. But if you're honest, you probably wouldn't call the experience a picnic. So a nice thank-you gift would've been much appreciated. And when I say "nice," I don't mean an ill-fitting robe or monogrammed ashtray (with the bride and groom's initials). The only winner there is Goodwill.

Now that the Manolo's on the other foot, and you are the bride, do right by your best ladies with an indulgent treat they can actually use: a beauty bag -- one filled with must-haves they wouldn't necessarily buy for themselves. It's actually really easy, since you can choose brands that fit your budget and save time shopping online. Most importantly, your sidekicks will feel like a million bucks.

"Though it's the bride who's the star, all of the women who've supported her along the way should sparkle too," says Lori Hamlin, a celebrity makeup artist who's worked with brides for 20 years. She's suggested the beauty bag fillers below. Include all four in a pretty gift bag or mini-monogrammed tote, tie with a bow, and check one more to-do off your list.

Lip Balm
We're not talking about a cheap tube of wax here. "A good lip balm will hydrate, smooth, and keep lip color on longer," says Hamlin. She says a quality balm will be absorbed into the lips and leave no sticky residue, so it helps your lips look healthy and smooth. This way, bridesmaids don't have to worry about dry or cracked lips -- even after lots of mingling and gabbing -- and lip color won't look faded in pictures. Tell your girls to put it on first, under lip color, and reapply throughout the day. For a splurge, Hamlin suggests the ultra-rich By Terry Rose Balm, $58, which can also be used on nails.

Oil-Control Blotting Papers
After wearing more makeup in a day than they would in a week, your girls may start feeling greasy and self-conscious. "Blotting papers pick up oil, remove shine from the skin's surface, and refresh the skin without adding more makeup," says Hamlin. A lot of brands make these, but Hamlin likes Shiseido PURENESS Oil-Control Blotting Paper, $18.

Mascara and Eyelash Curler
Hamlin says to never underestimate the powerful impact of gorgeous -- and waterproof -- lashes. "Curling your eyelashes is an easy way to open up the eye without adding a lot of extra makeup," she says. As for mascara? "Go waterproof, since weddings always make us cry, and it wears longer in hot weather or while dancing." Hamlin likes Lancome Hypnose Custom Volume Mascara, $29.50, which doesn't smear, clump, or smudge.


A Treat to De-Stress
Spending so much time and attention on a demanding bride can wear a girl out! Help your bridesmaids relax after the wedding with at least one item that promises to pamper and rehydrate. "Anyone who experiences an emotional event, stays up late, or drinks alcohol will benefit from hydrating treatments," says Hamlin. She suggests bath products that target stress, replenish moisture, and detoxify the skin, like Comfort Zone Tranquility Bath Oil, $88. Stress, fatigue, and dehydration can also wreak havoc on eyes -- think dark circles, puffiness, and increased lines. Eye treatments and patches, like Carita Progressif Anti-Rides Eye Contour Micro-Mask, $72.30, will help your 'maids look healthy and rested post-wedding.