Gifts for Guys

By: Jasmin Smith
No one actually knows why or how the tradition of having groomsmen at weddings came about but it has become customary to have a best man plus several male guests who act on behalf of the bride and groom at the wedding.

In days gone by, groomsmen actually protected the bride and groom with swords and the like which is how the ‘guard of honor’ tradition began. You will still see this custom at military weddings where the groomsmen form an arch for the bride and groom to traverse.

Traditionally, they show guests to their seats, ‘guard’ the bride and groom and entertain single guests who have no one to converse with. For the single ladies they are also expected to keep them occupied by dancing with them etc.

The groom himself chooses one of these young men to be his best man, usually his closest friend or a brother or relative, who will carry the rings and generally accompany the groom at the ceremony until the nuptials have taken place. He is usually one of the formal witnesses also. Bridesmaids, and the maid or matron of honor, do the same for the bride.

Apart from these formal duties, the best man and groomsmen are also expected to throw a party for the groom some time before the wedding to celebrate, or commiserate, his final days as a bachelor. These functions are normally called a bachelor party, stag or buck party, and will be male only. Although some throw this party the night before the wedding, many have chosen to give the men time to recover by having the party several days in advance. After all, a hung over groom is not the best way to start married life!

For all this attention, it has also become increasingly popular for the groom, and bride, to give these groomsmen a gift to say ‘thank-you’ for all the help and attention they have received over the weeks and months leading up to the wedding.

Traditionally, sets of cuff-links were given as mementos of the day. These are still available, of course, but there are many who don’t have the opportunity to wear such formal pieces of jewelry these days. If you really do want to give this traditional gift, go for the engravable kind where you can either add their initials or even those of the bride and groom. Depending on the budget, these can be in gold, silver or silver-plate, or even stainless steel and make excellent keepsakes of the day. You never know, you may be giving a future heirloom that will be passed down through generations.

You are not restricted to cuff-links when it comes to giving the groomsmen gifts. The varieties of gifts on offer are virtually endless, but take some time to study the individual. You also don’t have to give each groomsman the identical gifts. However, giving the same gifts will alleviate any jealousy and the difference can be made by adding their own initials to the piece or pieces.

If these men like to drink, give them individual shot glasses personalized with their initials. A word if warning though - make sure you get quality glass. You don’t want to be remembered for all the wrong reasons!
Hip flasks too make a great gift – again personalized – and come in many styles. One of the most superbly stylized is a round one that can be used for display as well as for practical purposed - but be aware of being politically correct. Some people may not like the idea of alcohol related gifts. This is where it pays to get to know the habits of your friends and family.

The general idea is to give something small and uniquely personal and many items fit this bill. Even silver key chains, which come in many different styles and designs, would be suitable. Some have a small aperture for personal photos and can be given with a photo of the bride and groom.

If these men are golfers, a sport becoming increasingly popular amongst young men, there are many golf inspired gifts on offer. Silver clocks in the shape of golf carts, club style pens on desk sets, or even silver divot key rings can be found.

For those who like games, compact travel sets are available. Miniature chess or roulette wheels are a great idea to distract someone while traveling and make a refreshing change form computer style games since several people can play at the same time in a restricted area.

If your groomsmen are of the corporate type, then consider giving them stylish leather goods. There are many cases or computer bags on offer and most can be personalized. Some come complete with a ‘pilot’ style overnight bag as well as the computer case and are a great gift idea for any occasion. Executive style briefcases would also be a good gift as well at the laptop type briefcases so that he can work while traveling.

Of course, there are all kinds of office paraphernalia that can be customized with his initials. Cardholders complete with pen sets or silver clocks show an element of style which can be appreciated on a daily basis.

Another one of the more traditional gifts would be a pocket watch. Although they may look a little old-fashioned, most men would love to be able to flash this remarkably stylish time piece whether he is at work or play. Every time he looks at it he will be reminded of where and why he was given it which is really the point of giving a gift.

Remember that you also don’t have to break the bank by giving these gifts. After all, it is not the cost of the gift but the amount of love and appreciation you want to show. A small, well thought out token can be far more appreciated than a flashy, unsuitable gift. Naturally, if budgeting is not a problem, shop away and give your groomsmen the gift of a lifetime!