Will You Be My Bridesmaid? 37 Creative Ways to Pop The Question
Proposing to your best mates needn’t be nerve racking – we’ve got ‘will you be my bridesmaid’ ideas aplenty, from candles to custom yoga mats to the cutest proposal cards you’ve ever seen…
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It might be that you’ve known precisely who your bridesmaids would be since your nursery days, or perhaps you’ve spent weeks or months agonising over the decision since getting engaged. Either way, once you’ve decided which of your pals you want to walk with you down the aisle on your wedding day, we’re here to make asking the ‘will you be my bridesmaid?’ question extra special.
Whether you get the message across with a simple personalised card, edible proposal treat or a meaningful keepsake, there’s no shortage of ways to show how much your bridesmaid-to-be means to you. You could keep it classic with stationery, tasty by way of monogrammed iced biscuits or arty with a hand-painted vase. There’s something for everyone in our ‘be my bridesmaid' ideas edit, so get browsing and pick the perfect bridesmaid proposal method for your mates.
'Will You Be My Bridesmaid?' Gifts
Make your bridesmaid proposal extra special with a lovely 'will you be my bridesmaid' gift!
1. Bridesmaid Knot Earrings – Wue
Both literal and sentimental, these ‘tie the knot’ earrings are subtle enough to be to every bridesmaids’ taste and are as apt for the office as they are the aisle. They are available in various sizes and can be dipped in gold if that is more to their jewellery taste.
Expert Take: Make sure to check that your bridesmaids have their ears pierced for this gift. If not, a 'will you be my bridesmaid?' bracelet will work just as well.
2. Message in a Bottle Bridesmaid Proposal - Chips & Sprinkles
This message in a bottle is a fun way to pop the question. You can send it directly to the recipient so it'll arrive at their door for a special surprise. It's a quirky way to ask your bridesmaids if you are looking for something different.
Expert Take: Be careful when storing this gift as it is made from glass, however it comes in a nifty gift box so it won't break in transit.
3. Will You Be My Bridesmaid Candle – Kindred Fires
Beautiful calligraphy isn’t the only means by which to personalise this soy-based candle – you can pick from 12 scents, ranging from zingy pink grapefruit and basil to the very chill sounding ‘tranquillity’. The apothecary style jar makes for brilliant makeup brush storage once the candle has burned down too.
Expert Take: The candle is crafted from natural soy wax making it suitable for vegans. It has a burn time of 24 hours so although it will eventually burn out, they'll get plenty of use out of it.
4. Personalised Pull Out Photo Album – Sophia Victoria Joy
This cute pull-out photo album includes a secret message hidden in the bottom of the box which, along with a reel of artfully selected photos of you both, will get your proposal intentions across loud and clear. It's the ideal size to fit in a bag or pocket.
Expert Take: To make this gift extra sentimental we recommend picking out photos that mean a lot to you and your bridesmaids - if you've been friends for years, old memories are a great idea. This will take a little longer than just choosing your most recent snaps, but it'll be well worth it when you see their reaction.
5. Personalised Blue and White Mandala Round Beach Towel – Hitched Shop
Whether your photo album features beach pics or not, this statement monogrammed round beach towel will inspire you to create some! If you and your pal are beach bums (or you’re planning a beach wedding), this will make the perfect bridesmaid proposal gift.
Expert Take: This towel comes in nine different designs - we love the idea of mixing and matching if you are having a few bridesmaids. One review stated that it was larger than expected so it could also be used as a bath towel.
6. Hidden Message Mug – Gemma Wightman Ceramics
Invite your best friends over for tea and biscuits and see who is the first to finish their drink and unveil the special message hidden at the bottom of the mug. Good luck containing yourself if they’re slow drinkers.
Expert Take: The mug has a classic, plain design but this makes the surprise of a hidden message even more unexpected. It'll also easily fit into their current mug collection!
7. Personalised Rosé Wine With Spotify Playlist – Mix Pixie
If you and your mate love nothing more than a catch-up over a bottle of crisp rosé, bringing along this bespoke labelled French cuvée to your next dinner or picnic date will impress her no end. A tailored Spotify code is also included so that you can ‘propose’ to a soundtrack of your choosing.
Expert Take: This is an easy-drinking rosé with an aroma of crushed berries and a burst of fruit. For an additional fee, a personalised song can be added to the playlist.
8. Infinity Knot Bangle Botanical Bridesmaid Gift – Junk Jewels
Not only is this a super-sweet message, the Junk Jewels at Not on the High Street bangle makes for a great on-the-day accessory for your ‘maids to rock. We adore the pun and bet your bridesmaids won't be able to stop smiling when you gift them this.
Expert Take: You can choose from rose or yellow gold, or silver to suit your bridesmaids jewellery colour preferences. The bangle is adjustable in size but be gentle when re-sizing.
9. Dalmatian Dot Personalised Makeup Bag – Hitched Shop
Very likely to become an everyday day staple for your BFFs, this dotty zipped makeup pouch can be personalised with a rainbow of colours or metallic thread. It’ll take pride of place on her dressing table and remind her of you every time she whips out her mascara of a morning.
Expert Take: This bag is best suited for storing makeup as it might be a little small for larger toiletries.
10. Bridesmaid Perfect Pouch – Katie Loxton
Whether used as a clutch or jewellery pouch, this roomy bag can be personalised with each bridesmaids’ initials and is also available in several other shades if you want to match your wedding colour palette.
Expert Take: Katie Loxton is an affordable yet luxe brand - your bridesmaids will be very impressed with these. Reviews state that they come very nicely packaged.
11. Bridesmaid Foiled Notebook – Martha Brook
Pick from six pastel hues and three tones of metallic foiling to make this bridesmaid notebook even more personal – why not pop the question on the very first page as a personalised message can be added for free.
Expert Take: You can choose from lined or blank pages, meaning it works for friends who are doodlers and those who thrive on list making . A gift wrapping service is also available for an additional fee.
12. Will You Be My Bridesmaid? Personalised Papercut – The Portland Co
Another way to say it with paper, this time with a framed leafy artwork featuring your bridesmaid’s name and the date that you asked her to walk with you down the aisle (or perhaps featuring your wedding date if that’s already in the diary).
Expert Take: This gift is not only unique, it will make a gorgeous addition to her home. It costs extra to have it framed but it will ensure the delicate paper doesn't get damaged.
13. Personalised Satin Pyjama Sleepwear Set – Hitched Shop
A silky shortie PJ set that she’ll wear again and again, not to mention on your wedding morning. You can choose from different colours and prints and initials can be sewn on in a huge array of shades to truly tailor each set to the maid in question. Discover more bridesmaid pyjamas here.
Expert Take: As this set comes with shorts, they can be worn overnight as your maids won't get too warm. If you want an oversized fit, we recommend sizing up.
14. Custom Yoga Mat with Floral Monogram – Hitched Shop
Cushy, monogrammed and non-slip, this classic yoga mat will go down a treat if your bridesmaid-to-be loves her daily flow. Perhaps incorporate a yoga class into your ‘will you be my bridesmaid’ proposal plans and roll it out beforehand for a nifty surprise. She’ll think of you every time she salutes the sun.
Expert Take: This yoga mat is conveniently foldable but is best suited to be given to your bridesmaids when you don't have too far to travel as it won't fit inside a small bag.
15. Personalised Glass Tea Infuser Travel Mug – Hitched Shop
Present this personalised infuser mug full of her favourite brew and ask her to be your bridesmaid over a cuppa – it’ll be a tea break that you both remember for life, that’s for sure. The flask is double insulated to keep tea hot or cool, as she prefers.
Expert Take: The steeper is stainless steel and re-usable making it much better for the environment than alternatives. Hand-wash this mug to ensure the monogram stays in perfect condition.
16. Personalised Wedding Letterbox Biscuits – Biscuiteers
Accompany a steaming mug of tea with these decorative bespoke biscuits. If you don't leave near your bestie but still want to make their bridesmaid proposal special, these biscuits can be delivered through their letterbox.
Expert Take: These are technically intended to be an engagement gift but given that you’re essentially proposing to your mate, the vibe applies.
17. The Hadley Dried Flower Bouquet – Bloom & Wild
A celebratory dried flower bouquet that’ll last, this gorgeous bunch combines spray roses, poppy seed heads, lavender and linum to joyful effect. You could even use it as inspo for your bridesmaid bouquets as you plot with your BFs.
Expert Take: Every stem is unique so sometimes colours vary or they'll need to use a substitution but this means you'll get the best bouquet that is completely custom.
18. Organic Cotton Hanky: It's You + Me Babe – Nicola Rowlands
Mop up those post-proposal tears of joy with this extremely cool embroidered hanky. She can chuck it in the wash and have it ready for your wedding day too – let’s be real, at least one of you is going to need it.
Expert Take: For best results they recommend air-drying but if you are in a rush they can be popped inside a tumble dryer.
19. Pink Champagne Truffles – Hotel Chocolat
Pop the question with these milk chocolate and Marc de Champagne truffles for a sweet way to let your feelings be known. They are an indulgent flavour that is perfect for a special occasion and the hammered rose gold tin is a keeper too.
Expert Take You can't go wrong with chocolates and although this gift is likely not to last long, we don't think your bridesmaids will mind.
20. Personalised Prosecco – Getting Personal
Because she’ll need something to wash down the chocolates with, right? It may as well be this personalised prosecco from Getting Personal. It's a fail-safe option that is super thoughtful too as they can keep the bottle and open on a special occasion. We're thinking of the hen party...
Expert Take: The label is completely up to you when it comes to Getting Personal's bespoke prosecco offering. You can upload a photo, or choose a classic label with text, like this one. There is a luxury gift box option available which we recommend for a safe arrival.
21. Be My Bridesmaid Proposal Candle - Mischief Candles
Scented with pink blossom and in a pink and red glass jar? We know we'd be saying a big yes to this candle bridesmaid proposal. It's soy wax, and made in the UK too, which gives it extra points from us.
Expert Take: If your soon-to-be bridesmaid isn't a fan of pink, you can swap this for clear glass, plus you can choose from four different scents too, to make sure it's one she likes.
'Will You Be My Bridesmaid?' Cards
A card is a great way to ask someone to be your bridesmaid - you can write a personalised message (see some of our favourite quotes about love here) and your bestie will cherish it forever.
Funny ‘Will You Be My Bridesmaid?’ Cards
These funny bridesmaid proposal cards are perfect for 'maids with a sense of humour!
22. ‘You’d Look Good in a Frock’ Card – Wordplay Designs
Colourful and tongue in cheek, this simple card gets the message across with a smile. It is printed on pearlescent card giving it a luxury and high quality finish.
Expert Take: You can buy these in packs which will save money if you are asking several bridesmaids. This card is best suited for bridesmaids with a dry sense of humour.
23. 'Now Act Surprised' Card – Etsy
Beautiful calligraphy with a to the point tone, if your bridesmaid's not one to beat about the bush, she'll love this card. This is an ideal card if you know your bridesmaids are expecting you to ask, but you still want to make the proposal special.
Expert Take: This card gives you the option to choose between many titles, including bridesman, maid of honour and chief bridesmaid.
24. 'Pinterest Board' Proposal Card – Etsy
If you've been planning and pinning your wedding day for years, asking your best Pinterest pals to be your bridesmaids makes total sense. This card from Etsy is ideal for you.
Expert Take: The rustic look to this card is perfect for laid-back and relaxed brides. It's one of the more expensive picks but the quality is five-star.
Stylish ‘Will You Be My Bridesmaid?’ Cards
These chic 'will you be my bridesmaid' cards are perfect for stylish bridesmaids.
25. 'Will You Be My Bridesmaid?' Calligraphy Card – Etsy
We adore this stylish 'will you be my bridesmaid?' card. The simple, elegant design is available in a range of colours so you can pick a shade to suit your big day. You can also pick from different envelopes, including soft pink, metallic silver and pearlescent.
Expert Take: This minimalistic design is super versatile but if it's a little too plain for your taste, it can easily be customised at home with pens, ribbons and glitter.
26. Bridesmaid Scratch Card – Etsy
Take your gals to dinner, present them with this fun card and see who scratches off their message first. This card is certainly stylish with the gorgeous floral design but the scratch element keeps it playful. The suspense...
Expert Take: We adore the level of detail that has gone into the floral illustrations and love the matching envelope.
Personalised ‘Will You Be My Bridesmaid?’ Cards
Make your bridesmaid proposal even more special with these personalised cards!
27. Bridesmaid Proposal Card with Wax Seal – Etsy
An individual wax sealed card feels so regal - choose from five shades of wax and customise everything from names, to dates, to the role of the recipient. This card is a best-seller for a reason!
Expert Take: Everything about this card feels special - from the wax seals to the textured card and luxe-looking lettering. One review stated that they are slightly smaller than expected, but this makes them ideal for slipping into a pocket or bag.
28. Illustrated Bridesmaid Proposal Card – Etsy
A picture paints a thousand words but this illustrated depiction of you and your best mate combines both to meaningful, magical effect. Include details of hair colour and style, skin tone, accessories, and even robe colours, alongside a unique message, and sit back and wait to receive your masterpiece.
Expert Tkae: This card is a really thoughtful option - your bridesmaids could even have them framed and put in their home. If you want to save money, have this sent as PDF file and print them yourself.
'Will You Be My Bridesmaid?' Box
Want to propose to your bridesmaids but don't want to assemble a gift set for them yourself? Don't worry - these premade 'will you be my bridesmaid' boxes are perfect.
29. Will You Be My Bridesmaid Personalised Gift Set – Team Hen
An affordable bridesmaid proposal set that goes to town on pink, this kit will afford your maid some hen party planning time in the run-up to the hen do. A notebook and ‘diamond’ pen are perfect for relaxed evenings spent planning while a beautiful bridesmaid candle will remind her of you every time she lights it. Discover more bridesmaid proposal boxes here.
Expert Take: You don't want your bridesmaids to feel stressed with hen party planning when they open this gift, so remind that your looking forward to the planning without putting on pressure.
30. Bridesmaid and Maid of Honour Gift Box – Studio Hop
There's no better way to start off your wedding experience than making your bridal party feel special. This bridesmaid proposal box has a number of customisable gifts, including an eye-catching set of hair slides and a charming knot bracelet. You have the option to choose from a bridesmaid or a maid of honour proposal box.
Expert Take: Each box contains a variety of gifts that will suit all personalities which is great as you can't swap any items out. For example, if they don't wear makeup and the sponge won't be their thing, they may like the notebook or compact mirror.
31. Bridesmaid Proposal Gift Box – Etsy
Almost too pretty to unpack, this bridesmaid proposal box from All Bits Printed can be filled with gorgeous treats that are guaranteed to get a ‘yes’ from your pals. You can choose from a range of lettering colours and job role, including maid of honour, bridesmaid and flower girl. Start collecting lovely things like a diamond ring-inspired pen, a bottle of sparkling wine and cute flip flops, so they'll be ready for any situation!
Expert Take: This proposal box might take a little longer to create but it'll be well worth it in the end as you can customise it with gifts that are completely personal to your loved ones.
32. ‘Will You Be My Bridesmaid?’ Gift Box - Etsy
Your bridesmaids deserve to be pampered, and this luxurious gift box is a good place to start! It features a face mask, bath salts, wax melts and some sweet treats for your crew to enjoy an indulgent night in. It even includes a bridesmaid sash that they can don to your hen party!
Expert Take: All beauty products included in this box are natural and made from organic ingredients. The chocolate bar isn't vegan so might not meet all dietary requirements - if this is the case it is super simple to swap it out.
33. Personalised Bridesmaid's Hamper – Mix Pixie
For something a bit different, why not gift your bridal party a stunning bouquet of dried flowers? This luxurious gift box features a bottle of Champagne and a sweet-smelling candle with personalised labels for an elegant touch. You can also opt for a full-sized of mini bottle of prosecco to keep costs down.
Expert Take: Your bridesmaids will be able to keep the dried flowers as a lovely keepsake of this special moment. They could even bring them along to the wedding day!
34. Personalised Luxury Will You Be My Bridesmaid Gift Box – £39.95, Martha Brook
Martha Brook are well-known for their luxurious and gorgeous wedding accessories, gifts and more. This gift box is filled with a personalised notebook, trinket dish, card and pen. The box itself is also fabulous, and sturdy enough that every item will stay in tip-top condition.
Expert Take: This is one of the more pricey bridesmaid proposal box ideas but it's well worth every penny for how special it is. If you are only having a few bridesmaids, it's a great choice.
35. The Bridesmaid Box - Fortnum & Mason
This bridesmaid proposal box oozes class, thanks to Fortnum & Mason's iconic logo and turquoise colour. The contents are gorgeous too, comprising of truffes, Champagne and a bridesmaid pouch for all of her essentials on the big day.
Expert Take: The luxury contents are reflected in the price of this beautiful gift - but if money is not object when it comes to telling your besties how much they mean to them, we can think of no classier bridesmaid proposal.
36. Personalised Be My Bridesmaid Bottle Box - Sprinkle More Joy
We'd be delighted to open this bridesmaid proposal! The text can be personalised and you can choose from a wooden or clear sliding lid. Buy her favourite bottle of wine to slip inside, and you've got a night to remember!
Expert Take: At £28, without the wine inside, this is one of the pricier bridesmaid proposal boxes we've seen, but she's worth it, right?
37. Personalised Will You Be My Bridesmaid Gift Wedding Box - Dust and Things
Sticking with the wooden bridesmaid proposal box theme, this keepsake box will last for years, creating the perfect place for your best friend to store all her favourite photos from your day together. You can choose different variations of the box' an empty one, one with divided sections that's perfect for keeping jewellery in while the third option has carrying handles and a lift off lid.
Expert Take: For an extra personal touch, you can add a secret message to the bottom of the box too.
How to Ask 'Will You Be My Bridesmaid?'
'Proposing' to your bridesmaids can be as out-there or a relaxed as you like - if you don't want it to be a huge event, or you are sticking to a budget, giving your loved ones a small gift or a card is a sentimental and thoughtful gesture. We love the idea of inviting them over for a night-in or going out to dinner and then asking.
Bridesmaid proposal boxes are also a popular choice as all the hard work is done for you and there are so many options to choose from. You'll find boxes filled with personalised stationery, pampering products and even bottles of fizz. However you ask 'will you be my bridesmaid?', your pals are bound to be so excited!
How Soon Should You Ask Someone to Be Your Bridesmaid?
There are no rules when it comes to when you should ask someone to be your bridesmaid, but we recommend between a year and eight months before the wedding as you'll want to give them time if they are planning a hen do. It is also nice for them to know before you go wedding outfit shopping.
As soon as you know who the special people are that you want to ask, there's no harm in letting them know and the chances are they might already suspect the news is coming.
Browse even more bridesmaid gifts or start looking for your perfect bridesmaid dresses in our bridalwear section