Q. Traditionally, who on the top table do you buy thank you gifts / flowers for?

Traditionally, do you buy gifts for the fathers of the Bride and Groom?

A1. Traditionally, gifts are bought for the bridesmaids, best man and both mothers. These gifts are presented in recognition of the support, financial or otherwise, that the bride and groom have received.

Usually the pressies to the mothers and the fathers, are presented during the speeches, with the gifts to the attendants given either just before the wedding or just after the meal, depending on what the gift is.

Most of the weddings I have been to, the fathers have received a gift along with the mothers, at the end of the Groom’s speech.

However with more and more couples moving away from tradition because either the top table is not a traditional set-up, there is no top table as such or no speeches, then it really does come down to what you feel comfortable with.
(Answered by Aileen Paterson)

A2. Traditionally you would buy flowers for the mothers of the bride and groom and then presents for the best man, ushers and bridesmaids. The fathers of the bride and groom don't tend to get anything themselves.
(Answered by Pippa Miln)

A3. Traditionally, thank you gifts are given to the Bridesmaids, Mothers of the Bride and Groom & the Best Man.

However, this seems to have extended recently and gifts are often also given to the Fathers of the Bride, Flowergirls, Page Boys, Ushers and even people who've given readings during the ceremony or those who've just helped out a lot during the run up to the wedding. I've even
received presents and bouquets during speeches from clients!

Also, people seem to be moving away from the traditional flowers/jewellery/tankard style gifts to more personal keepsakes or even to experience vouchers, fine wines and designer gifts.

If you want to buy a present for someone to thank them for their help, don't feel bound by tradition. Similarly, don't feel you need to buy a gift for everyone - it's entirely personal choice.
(Answered by Tamryn Kirby)


A4. Traditionally gifts are purchased for the bridesmaids, best man, mothers of both the bride and groom. However, it is entirely up to you whether you extend this to include the fathers of both bride and groom and any other person involved in the wedding (and lots of people do).

As lots of families include 'step' mothers, fathers etc., they are also often included in receiving gifts.

It is a gesture to thank the people that mean the most for their love, support and help in all areas of the bride and groom's life and, of course, for helping with the wedding too.
Hope this helps a little and have a lovely day.
(Answered by Siobhan Barron)

A5. Traditionally you would buy gifts for the two mothers (usually bouquets of flowers but it can be whatever you choose), you buy gifts for the
bridesmaids and a gift for the best man. It is not usual to buy gifts for the fathers, but it is entirely up to you, and if this is something you would like to do, then break with tradition and go ahead!
(Answered by Suzie Gillespie)



A6. Traditionally you would by gifts for your attendants, which is usually given just before or on your wedding day.

Traditionally both mothers are presented with bouquets of flowers after the speeches.

That basically leaves the fathers out - traditionally they don't really get a gift but if you don't want to leave them out buy left a gift to remind them of your special day, maybe a hip flask or if they smoke an engraved cigarette lighter?
(Answered by Mrs S)