When wedding budgets are running slim, usually the first things to be cut out are wedding favors and bridal party gifts. But don't forget these important people in your ceremony! Some of them have spent considerable time and money traveling to your wedding, paying for your bridesmaid dress, and countless other expenses and tasks just to support you!

Don't neglect those people close to you, show them that you appreciate all they are doing to help make your special day unforgettable. Here are some great ideas for gifts to show your appreciation that is easy on the pocketbook as well.

Bridal Party Gifts - Jewelry

Perhaps the most popular gift to give bridesmaids is jewelry. It is something that can be easily found on the internet or discount jewelry shops, and gives your friends something not only to wear on your wedding day, but to keep and year for years to come as well. I still have many of the necklace and earring sets that were given to me when I've been in weddings. Your bridesmaids will cherish them for years to come, and keep them as a special memory.

Bridal Party Gifts - Relaxation

What woman out there doesn't like a gift of pampering and relaxation? Bath salts are a great idea, and are incredibly easy to make, they only require Epsom salt, food coloring, fragrant oils, and baking soda. Put them in a decorative jar, and its great take home gift. Also, a tip for those who don't know, massage schools require that their students give out a number of free massages as practice before graduation. Make some calls and see if you can find someone who will come out and give massages for tips only.

Most of them will not mind, they are looking to build up a customer base after graduation. Use your imagination, and your day of relaxation will be a total hit. Not only that, but if you have a friend who is particularly good at giving pedicures, consider hiring her for giving pedicures and manicures.

Bridal Party Gifts - Gift Bags

This is definitely a place where you can use your imagination and get creative - but be careful or could wind up spending more than you intended. If you are having a summer wedding, grab some bright colorful beach bags and fill it up with all kinds of beach goodies! Flip flops, beach towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, the sky is the limit. Winter wedding? Think colorful gloves, scarves, hats, hot chocolate, or other favorite treats. Most everything can be found on the internet and discount stores, so be sure to start looking early.

When giving out your bridal party gifts, make sure that it is something thoughtful that you think your friends will like. When I was in my sister's wedding, she gave me a huge horizontal picture frame that would hold six pictures, and she knew that I'd love it! Basically, what it really comes down to is choosing something that you know they would use again. If your wedding has a theme, play it up and use your imagination.