Asking “Will you be my bridesmaid?” is one of those moments you’ll never forget — and in recent years, it’s become a major wedding trend. Brides are going all out, from personalised gifts and handwritten notes to curated bridesmaid proposal boxes and creative keepsakes, making the proposal as special as the day itself.

While many brides still opt for a simple in-person ask, there’s something truly memorable about putting in a little extra effort. It’s a beautiful way to show your best girls how much they mean to you — and, of course, a perfect excuse to start the celebrations early.

Here are some of our favourite ways to pop the question and make your bridesmaid proposal unforgettable…

1. A Heartfelt Be My Bridesmaid Card or Letter

It’s a gorgeous yet simple idea — and perfect if your bridesmaids don’t live in the same country. Giving, or sending a Be My Bridesmaid card or letter adds a lovely sense of occasion compared to a phone call or text. It’s budget-friendly, straight to the point, and pairs beautifully with a little pressie. Inside, you can include a sweet story of your relationship or write about how much they mean to you — a heartfelt touch that’s sure to make them tear up! We’ve rounded up a few of our favourites in our 30+ “Will You Be My Bridesmaid” Cards feature.

For the DIY brides-to-be, why not try making your own handmade card, get your creative juices flowing on Canva, or download a template from Etsy? There are also some gorgeous free printables from around the web for a personal touch. Check out Something Turquoise’s various bridesmaid proposal card options, as well as Hunny Print’s blush and pink printable card set.

2. A Pretty Bridesmaid Proposal Bouquet

For brides who want to get a little creative, a proposal newspaper flower bouquet wrap is a fun and unique idea. These can be found as printables on Etsy, and even Canva – simply print out the newspaper-style proposal and pair it with a gorgeous bouquet, whether it’s freshly picked from your own garden or styled in your wedding colours. It’s a thoughtful, eye-catching way to ask your bridesmaids and adds a personal, crafty touch to the moment.

3. A Chic Be My Bridesmaid Candle

A luxe candle is a thoughtful and gorgeous way to propose to your bridal party—or simply thank them for being part of your journey. It’s a gift they’ll truly enjoy, perfect for burning throughout the wedding planning process, and a lovely reminder of your special bond.Tie with pretty ribbon and pair it with a heartfelt note to make the moment even more personal.

4. A Mini Dried Bridesmaid Proposal Bouquet

Mini dried bouquets are a charming and long-lasting way to pop the question to your bridesmaids. Unlike fresh flowers, these petite arrangements can last forever, serving as a keepsake to remember the special moment. Perfect for brides who want something delicate, and thoughtful, you can pair them with a handwritten note or a small card to make the proposal even more personal.

5. With A Vintage-Style Bridesmaid Hankie

Like a card, only cuter, these pretty wedding handkerchiefs are perfect for the vintage-loving bride to give to her girls. You can personalise them with a message, the date of your wedding, or simply ask, “Will you be my bridesmaid?” Many come with a delicate calligraphed tag featuring each bridesmaid’s name and a sweet note like “For Your Happy Tears” making them a gorgeous keepsake. Nostalgic and thoughtful, these handkerchiefs are sure to charm bridesmaids who appreciate a touch of vintage elegance, though a little planning ahead is recommended, as they can take some time to order.

6. Gift Personalised Bridesmaid Proposal Treats

Cookies, macarons, and cupcakes — what girl doesn’t have a sweet tooth?! Pop the question with some delicious treats to win their hearts. Think beautifully packaged macarons from Ladurée, personalised cupcakes, or gourmet cookies. Sweet, thoughtful, and indulgent, these edible gifts are a fun and memorable way to ask your bridesmaids to stand by your side.

7. Celebrate with a Bridesmaid Proposal Cake

Celebrate your proposal with a show-stopping cake adorned with an adorable “Will You Be My Bridesmaid?” topper. Whether mini cakes for each bridesmaid or a single cake to share, it’s a playful and indulgent way to make the moment extra special and, of course, deliciously sweet!

8. Over a Glass of Bubbles…

For a really simple way to “pop the question” how about surprising them with some bottles of prosecco, champagne or wine bottles with a special message.  You can buy cute Be My Bridesmaid labels from Etsy or One Fab Day favourite Hana Lee Studios. They’re simple, inexpensive and cute. For an extra girly twist you could even go for pink bubbly. “As I prepare for the day that I’m to be a bride, it would mean the world to have you sipping by my side…”

9. Pop the Question Over a Cuppa

Charming, practical, and utterly giftable, personalised teacups or mugs are a sweet way to pop the question to your bridesmaids. Customise them with their names, the wedding date, or a heartfelt message like “Will You Be My Bridesmaid?”. They’re perfect for a cute proposal over a simple cup of tea, or as a thoughtful addition to a bridesmaid proposal box. Whether used for morning coffee, afternoon tea, or kept as a keepsake, these gifts are a lovely way to show your appreciation while giving your girls something they’ll actually use.

10. Gift a Personalised Bridesmaid Proposal Box

For those feeling really creative, a personalised tote or box filled with thoughtful finds is a wonderful way to ask your bridesmaids and a keepsake they’ll treasure long after the wedding. Fill it with mini champagne bottles, beauty treats, a heartfelt letter, or anything special you know they’ll love. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a thoughtful way to show your girls just how much they mean to you. (We’ve got a full feature on what to pop inside right here!)

In a Time Pinch? Looking for a stunning, ready-to-go ‘Be My Bridesmaid’ proposal box? Check out our favourite spots to shop gorgeous premade gift boxes: Hana Lee Studios, Gigi & Olive, Prettie Co. The Whole Bride and Etsy.

11. Shower them with Jewels

A perfect gift to give to your ladies to remember this special occasion, would be to give your bridesmaids a locket necklace, bracelet or ring with a little note asking them to be your bridesmaid, which could then be worn for the wedding day. We also have a whole post on where you can get your hands on truly personal initial necklaces. 

12. Have a Special Get Together

What could be better than a little get-together to honour your favourite girls and ask them the all-important question? Inspired by the American-style bridal shower, Be My Bridesmaids parties are becoming increasingly popular. You don’t need to go all out, a nostalgic sleepover, a simple potluck dinner, an afternoon tea, or a leisurely lunch at your favourite café can be just as special. It’s a relaxed, memorable way to celebrate your friendship and kick off the wedding festivities.

Be My Bridesmaid Proposal FAQs

• Do I Really Need to Give Gifts? While giving gifts is a lovely gesture, the short answer is no, it’s absolutely not required. A heartfelt card or note is often more than enough to show your appreciation, especially if you’re planning to give a gift on the morning of the wedding itself.
• When Should I Propose to My Bridesmaids? While every bride’s timeline is a little different, a good rule of thumb is to ask your bridesmaids roughly eight months to a year before your wedding. This gives them plenty of time to plan, prepare, and celebrate alongside you regardless of when your own significant other popped the question.
• How Much Should I Spend? When it comes to bridesmaid proposal gifts, the thought and sentiment behind your message matter far more than the price tag — it’s the thought that counts. Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. While personalised jewellery or keepsakes are always well received, something as simple as a tailored, handwritten letter to each bridesmaid can be just as impactful, and is sure to tug at the heartstrings.
• Do All the Bridesmaid Gifts Have to Be the Same? Not at all! While a theme or consistent style can be lovely, your gifts don’t need to be identical. You can personalise each gift to reflect your bridesmaid’s personality or your shared memories, making each one extra special. Just be sure to keep them roughly within the same budget so everyone feels equally appreciated.
• Where Should I Do My Bridesmaid Proposal? Whether you choose to pop the question over a spot of afternoon tea, a fancy dinner, or simply with a cuppa at home, setting aside a dedicated bridesmaid proposal date will make the moment even more memorable. It’s a thoughtful way to celebrate the occasion and definitely beats a simple text message, creating a special memory you and your bridesmaids will cherish.

Bridesmaids assembled? Send these hen party ideas over to your maid of honour so she can start planning the ultimate celebration!