Before Victoria, weddings were simpler affairs. The sweet strains of Lohengrin were soon overpowered by DJs and bands, and beautiful, handmade nose-gays were eclipsed by bursting, colorful bouquets, among other things. For today's bride, toning down what's already an over-the-top affair is made appealing with the resurgence of the vintage wedding, a nod to nuptials of the past. Yet, there are multiple avenues to take when considering a vintage wedding theme; fortunately, there are also countless websites and books devoted to the subject.

As with anything, you can take inspiration from the past and carefully intertwine it with modern ambience to create a blend of old and new, or you can host a blowout vintage wedding bash that replicates the past to a T. The choices are endless!

Refining the Vintage Wedding Theme

Dress/Accessories: Finding the perfect dress is the goal of every bride. For those hoping to wear a vintage wedding gown to their ceremony, the search can be somewhat more complicated. If you live in large metropolitan city, there are likely quite a few vintage clothing or consignment stores that you can check out. Online browsing/shopping is always a good alternative, and if you do purchase anything, your local tailor can easily handle most alteration needs.

You can also opt for modern wedding dresses that have vintage vibes, such as mermaid or trumpet styles. Though, of course, when the elegant Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier in 1956, she chose a beautiful, full-skirted gown in ivory. The point here is to stick with flowing, high quality fabrics and classic embellishments that keep with the vintage wedding theme.

As far as shoes, jewelry, and veils, many of these items are also available online, either in their original vintage form or as modern reproductions. Your mother or grandmother may even have some pieces lying around that you can use to round out the vintage wedding theme.

Music: Undoubtedly, there are bands in your area that specialize in old-time hits or, at the very least, jazz standards. Some larger cities might even have mock big bands that can perform at your reception. There are a couple ways you can go about this: consider having the band greet guests on the lawn, in the style of an old garden party, or create a faux bandstand at the front of the reception venue to feature the band in all its glory.

To get guests excited about the wedding theme, before the band comes on, have a victrola or phonograph that you've rented or purchased piping music throughout the reception venue. It will set the stage for the coming attractions!

Food: Weddings in the past have traditionally been sit-down dinners, though you don't have to follow this when planning a vintage wedding. Offerings weren't nearly as diversified as today, and the usual fare consisted of various meats, salads, and fruits. Occasionally, brides also held pot-lucks, a way to get everyone involved in the festivities.

Selecting your menu can certainly play off these more traditional choices, but you can also mix and match. Pair old favorites with some new choices, and be creative! In terms of the cake, the flavor of choice was always buttercream. Obviously, white cake is still the reigning champ of wedding cakes, but if you decide to go with chocolate, red velvet, or the like, you can have your cake decorated with vintage flair - pearls, beads, feathers, lace, and other trimmings that meld with your wedding theme.

Pictures: As with your music, finding a photographer who specializes in snapping pictures with an 'old-timey' feel is not necessarily vital, but a consideration in your search. Certainly, the photographer can take pictures as usual, and revise certain elements when he's back at his studio. Perhaps you'd like black and white or sepia-toned pictures - that's doable. Maybe you want a crackled finish - sure. Get to know your photographer and his capabilities! Look at portfolios before hiring anyone, and you're sure to find a photographer who can carry out your wishes for great 'vintage' wedding pictures.

Lighting: The right light is important for any wedding! Regardless of the time of day your reception takes place, the lighting you choose should foster both warmth and invitation. Elaborate chandeliers, candles housed in extravagant candelabras, and other sources of ambient light are ideal for a vintage wedding theme.

Warm up reception tables with centerpieces surrounded by candles, or purchase multiple mini-chandeliers and hang them around the appetizer tables, gift tables, or in the bathrooms. Milk-glass lanterns/lamps were also a popular choice of lighting; they provide a soft glow that's unequaled.

A New Take on the Classics

A vintage wedding theme allows you and your guests to re-discover the beauty and elegance of the past. However you choose to incorporate these elements into your vintage wedding, just remember -- have fun! From birdcage veils and quaint petit-fours to jazz standards and a 1940s getaway vehicle, there are multiple ways to make the ceremony and reception unique to you. Plus, a vintage wedding theme can be a lot of fun for everyone involved! They're a great way to re-invent the past, learn a little history, and infuse your ceremony and reception with some wonderful, old-fashioned glamour.

In reality, popping the question should be an intimate moment that is special to both of you. Whether you decide to ask her during a quiet dinner for two or propose in front of thousands of baseball fans, choosing the right spot and ambiance is important when you ask for her hand.

Unless you know your girlfriend will appreciate a flashy proposal, keeping it romantic between just the two of you is the best approach, one she will remember long after a public proposition. Before asking her to marry you, use this list of tips and hints to dream up fabulous wedding proposals that leave her speechless.

The Dos and Don'ts of Wedding Proposal Ideas

Personalized wedding proposals: No girl wants a canned version of a tired, old proposal. Above all, don't do anything you've seen in the movies no matter how much she swooned. This is your opportunity to make it special for her and show her that you know and love her! When the time comes for popping the question, choose her favorite spot, as long as it's quiet, uncrowded, and romantic. She wants a magical day/night that she can share again and again, so it should be memorable. And never just say, "Will you marry me?" Tell her why you want her to marry you; personalize your proposal and let her know why she is so special to you!

Make the ambiance romantic: Most guidelines on wedding proposals agree that no matter how big a sports fan your girlfriend is, asking her to marry you at a game is probably not the ideal way to go about things. After popping the question, there is no time to reflect or even whisper sweet nothings to her. Keep the chaos to a minimum, so that the two of you can properly discuss this momentous occasion. Of course, this doesn't mean you can't ask her at a sports game - maybe she's the type of girl who would enjoy a thousand sets of eyes on her when you ask.

Furthermore, this doesn't mean you have to focus on popping the question over candlelight, but the locale should be - at least - semi-secluded, away from loud restaurant music, gawking crowds, and family. (Always remember that asking her in front of her family or yours adds unneeded stress when popping the question.)

Show a little respect: When discussing potential wedding proposals, you'll probably meet countless people who think asking her parents for her hand is lame and outmoded. Maybe, but it shows you're responsible and respectful of her parents and family. Sure, it's not easy to discuss such a big step, but her parents will remember that you approached them long after. Plus, you don't have to ask for her hand per se - use it as a way to encourage communication between the two newly merging families. It's a great way to start working on your in-law relationships!

Make it a surprise: You've undoubtedly discussed marriage prior to popping the question. The only thing that should come as a surprise is when you actually ask her to marry you. Previous discussions of merging your lives, including evaluating what's important to both of you in life and love, is vital to the success of your marriage. If you haven't talked about marriage prior to the proposal, you may want to brace yourself for a quizzical look followed by a hesitant maybe.

Choosing the ring: Please don't come unprepared to the proposal. Many women expect to have a ring on this night. It's not that we need something flashy and expensive to make it real; it's just that it helps cement your commitment and lets us know you're ready to take the plunge.

However, if your girl is the type who wants to pick and/or design her own ring, you should have discussed marriage well in advance. She knows it's coming, and is happy to say yes without hardware in hand. But just take her ring shopping as soon as possible after popping the question!

Wedding Proposals from the Heart

Asking your girlfriend to marry you is an exciting time! Sure, you may get nervous, but practicing those all important words in advance will help to alleviate some of those jitters. Don't worry if things go awry -- remember what you're there to do - ask the love of your life to commemorate your commitment to each other!

Wedding proposals are a great way to incorporate what your love means to the both of you and should be as unique as the two of you. Cherish the time and make it special!

Whether you've been asked to be the best man, maid of honor, or simply say a few words at the ceremony, you're responsible for lightening the mood with some laughter and tears. And for most people, giving speeches - wedding or otherwise - doesn't come naturally; staring out at a sea of guests can be overwhelming, especially if you're not a classically trained rhetorician.

The beauty of wedding speeches, however, is the inherent spontaneity and off-the-cuff remarks that can be made. Remembering the good, old days and looking forward to better days is what makes wedding speeches so touching.

Just don't stress out! Writing a wedding speech is easier than you think!

Below are some quick, easy tips to help you while writing a wedding speech that not only moves the wedding party and guests but leaves a memorable impression.

Writing a Wedding Speech with Flair

First things first. Don't waste any time putting together your speech ideas. Get out a fresh piece of paper, and jot down a few ideas that you know will help celebrate the marriage of the bride and groom in a positive way. Perhaps start with a funny anecdote or joke to elicit laughs from the audience and put you more at ease. Wedding speeches should always be light, funny, and conversational. Formal language has its place, but it's not here. You should also ask the bride and groom - since they might be having others speak at their wedding - if they would like you to speak on a special theme or subject.

When compiling and writing your wedding speech, know your order in the wedding party. Though you should know well in advance the schedule or timeline of events at the ceremony itself, you may still find it helpful to coordinate with the bride, groom, and other members as well as establish a rapport.

Keep wedding speeches to innocuous topics, such as congratulations, compliments, stories, and happy wishes. Don't ever say anything you think will be even the slightest bit offensive. At any given wedding, there are dozens of people from all walks of life, so it's best to avoid incendiary subjects that some people may take issue with. This includes, of course, religion, sex, politics, past relationships of the bride and groom, crude language, and anything else that's not family-friendly. When writing the speech, keep it upbeat and happy, avoid negative stories, and stay polite - this is key. If done right, you should also comment on the beautiful bride!

Some books that offer tips on wedding speeches may recommend that you set out to memorize your speech by heart - this decision can easily go awry. Sure, you may have your paper in front of you, but searching for the words once you have forgotten them slows you down and creates long, perhaps uncomfortable silences. You would also be reading your speech verbatim, which can often sound mechanical and forced. Rather, think about having cue cards with the basic ideas you want to cover in your speech - simply elaborate on each topic that you've previously rehearsed while writing your wedding speech.

Wedding speeches should be kept short - everyone wants to return to eating, drinking, and having a good time, so avoid dragging out your happy wishes for too long. A good rule of thumb when writing a wedding speech is to have a great opener, a joke, a brief anecdote, and a heartfelt closing, all of which should take about five minutes. In short, plan out your key points in advance. At the end, you should always thank everyone, including the bridal party, wedding planners/organizers, and out-of-town guests.

Wedding Speeches that Wow

A little planning beforehand will help you formulate some basic thoughts that you want to incorporate while writing your wedding speech. However, the best part about wedding speeches is throwing in some memories that are truly special to you - remember them aloud as you would tell any intimate moment with a close group of friends. If you happen to forget your wedding speech, it's okay! Just run with it and speak from the heart. Share your happiness.

Emotions run high. Above all, embrace this honor that the bride or groom has bestowed upon you and make them smile.

While there are as many themes as couples getting hitch each year, one of the most popular themes nowadays is the peacock wedding theme.

The main colors for this theme are truly gorgeous and couples just adore celebrating and giving this theme their own signature. Blues and greens in different shades are usually combined with silver, white and gold.

But also the peacock theme can take a very different look with non traditional peacock colors. Just using the peacock design, more couples decide to use a different palette. Pinks, purples, lavenders, yellow and red are the most popular unconventional colors used for a peacock theme wedding.

And this theme adapts to almost any type of celebration, whether you want to have a vintage or modern look.

Wedding decorations, attire and favors are just some of the areas where you can make the theme come to life.

Here are 10 quick ideas on how to incorporate the theme to your wedding celebration.

1* Use peacock feathers to enhance a simple wedding invitation design. Tie them to the invitation with a silk ribbon or glue them at a corner for a creative look.

2* Wear a peacock inspired shoe. From the painted ones to those that include peacock feathers around your ankle or over the toe area, they are a great item to enhance your bridal look.

3* Have a peacock feather centerpiece. From the simple single long peacock feather in a vase to more elaborated arrangements combining feathers and flowers, you are sure to have a unique centerpiece with this item.

4* Carry a flower bouquet with some peacock feathers included.

5* Change into a peacock inspired gown for your reception

6* Use a pair of decorative peacock birds as cake toppers

7* Carry a peacock feather fan instead of the traditional flower bouquet

8* Make a candle arrangement suitable for the theme by adding a peacock feather string at their base.

9* Have your groom wear a peacock feather as an original boutonniere

10* If your peacock theme wedding happens around Christmas tis the season by creating an original arrangement placing the classic ball ornament in peacock like colors inside a tall glass vase.

Just with attention to detail you can create an spectacular look for your wedding day.

Incorporate one or more of these ideas to have the wedding you always dreamt of.

Few dresses are ideal for everyone - and there are obviously assets you would like to emphasize and others you'd prefer to downplay. Usually, the sales associate at most bridal boutiques or stores will be able to offer an accurate analysis of the dresses you've selected, though you can also have your gown altered to make sure it 'hugs' you in the right places. While no body is alike, the following guidelines on choosing a wedding dress are designed to help you stick to the right style when browsing through the racks, online, or even having a dress specially made.

The Right Dress for Your Wedding Day

If you're like most women, you've been dreaming about your wedding day since you were a little girl, imagining a beautiful, fluffy white ball gown. Choosing your wedding dress may not be so simple. Today's bride has a plethora of gown options available to her, including A-line, sheath, mermaid, empire, and ball gown silhouettes. Though fitting sessions are the only way to tell what works best for you, the following body shape tips are meant to help you sort through the pile.

Hourglass: This shape is, by far and large, considered the ideal of feminine beauty. Ball gowns are perfect for those with smaller waistlines, while form-fitting gowns work just as well and cleverly show off your curves. Choosing a wedding dress like a dropped waist wedding gown, an updated look from the 1920s that's becoming very popular, works well for those with longer torsos and some height to them. Hourglass-shaped women are usually on the bustier side, so you'll want to avoid the harsh straight lines of some strapless gowns; instead, opt for sweetheart necklines or something with a little twist.

Rectangular: Finding a dress for your wedding day is all about knowing your body shape. The idea here is to look for gowns that create curves even if you don't have them. Elegant sheath dresses cut on the bias or bust-enhancing necklines create curves where none exist. A cinched waist dress on your wedding day, one with slightly puffier skirts, will similarly capitalize on your small waist and create volume.

Slim: A mermaid or trumpet dress for your wedding day is perfect for the slimmer bride with smaller hips, though this style can favor anyone on the slender side. A dress with a ruched bodice will create the appearance of a larger bust line, and, again, add curves where needed. Modified A-line gowns with slightly higher waist lines will make you appear taller as well.

Oval: Oval-shaped and plus-sized brides benefit from the classic lines of empire dresses; whether simple or jazzed up with some embellishments, this dress (a wedding day classic) hides numerous figure flaws and enhances the bust line. When choosing a wedding dress in the empire style, remember that it should be somewhat fitted, since a gown that's too loose can become billowy.

Show Off Your Wedding Day Style

As a last note, an A-line dress on your wedding day is more often than not universally flattering. Tall brides should keep the lines, detailing, and fabric simple, though smaller brides can pull off fabrics with high sheen; however, they, too, should avoid decked-out gowns, opting instead for nice touches at the neckline or the bust line to draw the eye up. Choosing a wedding dress in this style hides a lot of flaws, but still offers that big skirt appeal from your girlhood days in a stylish way. Sheath gowns, too, offer the same benefits as A-line gowns, meaning they camouflage many of the flaws you're looking to hide. In this case, however, differentiating between constructed (more curvy brides) and loose sheaths (slender brides) makes the difference when choosing a wedding dress.

Also, consider trying out this handy dream wedding gown creator that walks you through your unique body type and which styles would suit your shape best. It's easy to use and provides some tips that will pay off during your shopping trips!

Planning a Wedding with a Budget in Mind

An itemized wedding budget detailing the specifics - such as the dress, food/drinks, venue, flowers, and band - will ensure you've covered all the major aspects of your wedding day.

At the top of your worksheet, spreadsheet, or what have you, list what you've decided is a reasonable amount to spend on the wedding. On the left hand side, make each specific and significant element that you must or would like to have a line item. For instance, the ceremony, which encompasses the venue/place or worship, wedding officiant, and any licenses, would be listed here. Decide on a true and honest estimate of what you're willing to spend planning a wedding on a budget, and then, at a later date, add what you actually spent so that you can keep accurate track of your finances. Other items in the left hand column should consist of things such as the reception (food/drinks, cake, favors, venue, etc.); wedding attire (bride's clothing and shoes, makeup, hair, groom's clothing and accessories); rings/jewelry; flowers (for the entire party and at both venues); music/band/DJ; photography; transportation (if applicable); invitations and signage; and anything else that would cause a significant dent in your wedding budget. Remember to include such essential fees as tips for vendors (about 15 to 20%), trial hair and makeup sessions, and dress/tuxedo cleanings and pressings.

As far as planning a wedding on a budget with your parents, his parents, and any other well-wishers (step parents perhaps), show them your finalized wedding budget at an informal, yet constructive meeting. Discuss costs and who can realistically afford what. In days past, it was common - and expected - for the bride's parents to pay for everything, a modern dowry in a sense. Today's weddings no longer involve such a considerable sacrifice, though it is still carried out by many traditionalists. At this meeting, you'll want to discuss how the payments will be made; maybe your parents would like to split something or pay for one segment of the wedding entirely. Will they be giving you one lump sum in a check or visiting vendors with you to pay upfront? Such concerns about planning a wedding on a budget should be dealt with by a frank talk that involves all parties.

Many wedding budget planners suggest opening a separate wedding account at your bank that's not linked with any of your personal accounts. This simple action will help you more carefully figure out what's been spent on the wedding and where the funds are going. You should also set aside an additional 5 to 10% of your overall wedding budget should mishaps arise. The likelihood that you will go over your budget is almost a given; the amount to which you do can be controlled, in most instances, by careful wedding planning, and that budget of 5 to 10% extra you've stashed away will come in handy. Scaling back from the get-go is a huge help; this includes things like not having a buffet (wasted food), having fewer bridesmaids, and offering just wine and beer at the reception (alcohol is a major expenditure). Still, if these are must-haves, just be cautious of vendors who try to upsell you to some better, improved service that you probably don't need. Research is a crucial part of planning a wedding on a budget, so make sure you do your fair share before visiting vendors and venues.

Fine-tuning Your Wedding Budget for Success

Far too many couples forget about planning a wedding with a budget in mind and have a bang-up, blow-out bash that ends up putting them in the red. Add that to any other debts, and you're starting your marriage - which should be thoroughly exciting – with a gray cloud over your heads. A well-planned wedding budget that's done from the start - with nothing unaccounted for - will ensure that you can mosey off to your honeymoon with nothing else to worry about but enjoying yourselves.

In order to be prepared for the strain, hammering out some kind of a timeline and responsibility list well in advance is always a good move. As the day approaches, the jittery bride-to-be may get a little stressed and hard to reach. Here are some typical bridesmaid's responsibilities that may be asked of you.

A Bridesmaid's Responsibilities

1. Buy the dress: One of the primary bridesmaid duties is footing the bill for the dress you'll wear. Hopefully, the bride will have chosen something that fits within everyone's budget. However, you'll want to purchase your dress in advance in case it needs alteration work or something similar.

Occasionally, some brides choose one style of dress - not an ideal situation for bridesmaids with different body types. Embellish your dress with a cute jacket if sleeveless doesn't suit you or wear body-shaping undergarments for dresses that are too tight or too short.

2. Assemble favors: The bride may ask your help with putting together or dreaming up the favors. These kinds of bridesmaid duties are a great project for all the girls to help with! Based on the wedding's theme or colors, you can come prepared with some ideas in mind and share them with the group. If it's more of a project night, bring some goodies like cookies, wine, or popcorn for the group to enjoy while you assemble.

3. Organize gifts on the wedding day: Ideally, each bridesmaid should have unique bridesmaid duties on the day of the wedding. As part of the other thousands of bridesmaid's responsibilities that have to get done, the bride may ask you to organize the gifts as they are placed on the table and perhaps direct guests to sign the guest book or answer questions about the night's festivities and the venue's facilities.

4. Greet guests on the wedding day: Similar to the above task, a bridesmaid or two should stand guard at the front entrance, smiling and greeting guests as they enter. They should also coordinate these efforts with the groomsmen, who will then usher each new arrival to their table at the church, venue, or reception.

5. Arrive early or on time: In order to keep up with everything that's going on that day, make sure to arrive when the bride asks you to. It's obvious it's going to be a long day, but if you're rushing to the ceremony or reception with ten minutes to spare, someone else will have picked up the slack and performed your bridesmaid duties alone.

6. Carry the bride's essentials: Managing the bride's essentials is one of the most important bridesmaid duties. One of the bridesmaids should keep track of all the bride's essentials. The maid of honor ideally attends to her train while she walks around, perhaps even arranging it for pictures. The other bridesmaids should have tissues on hand, extra makeup, safety pins, and whatever else will keep the bride looking flawless throughout the wedding day.

7. Offer direction to wait staff at the reception venue: It's a given that everyone will be running around to make sure the reception flows smoothly. Part of the bridesmaids' responsibilities should include directing the wait staff in regards to table placement, the cake, the food (whether it be buffet or sit down), drinks, and any protocol. Make sure signs clearly delineate who sits at which table. Verify that the speakers aren't too close to any one table.

8. Collaborate with the other bridesmaids: The night before, create a game plan with the other bridesmaids to ensure you are all on the same page as far as each bridesmaid's responsibilities. Assign roles and duties so that everything goes off without a hitch during the actual ceremony and reception.

9. Ensure the bride's dress is ready to go: Someone will need to be in charge of making sure the dress is pressed, fresh, and ready to go. If it needs alteration work, take it and pick it up. If it needs to be dry cleaned, make a stop at the dry cleaners as well!

10. Provide moral support: Offering a shoulder to cry on or some friendly words will go a lot farther than you could think - and is often more valued than perhaps any of the other bridesmaid duties. She is stressed and tired of planning day after day - being a friend is the most important thing.

Carrying Out Bridesmaid's Responsibilities with a Smile

Sure, all these bridesmaid duties may be a lot of work and a little stressful to boot. Just remember that the bride decided to honor you with the responsibility of standing up for her at her wedding day. Cherish your bridesmaid's responsibilities and take lots of pictures!

Use this checklist to make sure you're meeting all the requirements couples look for when choosing a wedding photographer.

Wedding Vendor Checklist

[ ] Budget: Pricing may vary anywhere from hundreds of dollars to thousands, and is based on experience, quality, packages, day and time of wedding, and reputation. You'll also want to consider if the photographer can travel to your wedding spot and how long he or she will be there.

Package pricing can be tricky however. For many couples, choosing a wedding photographer is based on price. Carefully review what is included in these pre-priced packages. Most of all, speak up and negotiate items you agree with.

[ ] Experience/Style: What is the photographer's style? Whether it's traditional or artsy, you'll need to pick a wedding photographer that suits your style or theme. For example, a 'barefoot on the beach' theme may necessitate a photographer that shoots exclusively outside and is experienced with artistic nature shots.

You'll also want to review a website or portfolio before choosing your wedding photographer. During the interview, ask the photographer to bring along pictures or albums of previous work. Ask yourself how obtrusive the photographer is during the actual shooting. Does he or she blend into the background while taking pictures or is it a more obnoxious approach?

Finally, what is the photographer's personality like? Can you imagine yourself getting along with the person during the ceremony and reception? If you select a wedding photographer who is affiliated with a company, make sure you know who is taking the pictures that day. Sometimes, bigger companies have an apprentice or assistant taking your pictures.

[ ] Film: Ask what type of medium the photographer uses. Can he or she accommodate film and digital requests as well as color or black and white?

[ ] Capabilities: Remember - you will have choices to make, including how many hours you need the photographer to stay on and take pictures. What pictures do you want taken? Where do you want pictures taken? How many albums do you want?

Well before the day of the wedding, provide your photographer with a list of the pictures you want taken, including the bride getting ready, groomsmen, family, ceremony, and reception. This ensures that you have ample time to discuss the shots that are "must haves." Plus, the wedding photographer is better prepared.

[ ] Developing: Can your wedding photographer put together a proof book with pictures from the wedding as well as a wedding album? Furthermore, you should inquire how you'll receive your pictures and how long the turnaround takes. Some photographers upload pictures to a website and then charge you for every picture, while some give you all the negatives and then you print your own pictures. The rest may just give you the proof book to select pictures from. If you have the option to take them all, do it!

[ ] References: Don't forget to ask your wedding photographer for references. The past experiences of other couples will help you make a more well-rounded decision.

The Trick to Choosing a Wedding Photographer

If you have a wedding planner -- which is highly recommended - you'll soon learn that he or she has relationships with all types of vendors and can introduce you to a few photographers who have proven their mettle. This type of scenario is a win-win situation for everyone. If having a wedding planner is unrealistic, referrals are a good place to start. Ask friends or family which photography studio they used for their weddings. The internet, bridal magazines, and shows are other good methods of research when it comes to choosing a wedding photographer. Make sure you interview several photographers to find the right fit - just book fast - good photographers go quickly.

The gifts for your groomsmen need to be a little more durable though - and useful to boot. There's nothing frilly here, monogramming is certainly not necessary, and gift wrapping is an afterthought. The best way to thank your best man and groomsmen? Give them something they'll use time and time again; fortunately, there are groomsmen gift ideas that make everyone happy. The only challenge is the purchase. If the issue is budget, there are groomsmen gift ideas that won't break the bank. If the issue is creativity, simply use this list to decide on the best gifts for your groomsmen!

Top Gifts for Groomsmen

Here are the top groomsmen gift ideas and picks for 2010:

1. Cooler chairs: What's better than sitting down to enjoy a nice, cold beverage? Perhaps having that cold beverage within arm's length of your chair! This chair/cooler combo is perfect for tailgating and other sports events as well as fishing, hunting, and outings that your best man and groomsmen might attend.

2. Silver flasks: A man's ideal companion to a night on the town, a flask is one of the best gifts for groomsmen who are hard to buy for. Sterling silver prevents discoloration and rusting, plus it's discreet enough to be tucked away in a jacket or pants pocket for later use. Monogramming is optional; just make sure to pre-fill them with the liquor of choice.

3. Tankards, Mugs, & Beer steins: Whether you want thick metal or hand-fired ceramic, tankards, mugs, and beer steins are great groomsmen gift ideas. Personalized or not, a beer stein can hold up to 22 ounces (or more) of cold, refreshing liquid. And whether or not your best man or groomsmen choose to use them, they make great catch-alls on top of bureaus, desks, and tables.

4. Cufflinks: A classy approach to groomsmen gift ideas, cufflinks can be customized or simply chosen with a fun design already engraved. Silver is the traditional choice, though they are available in flashier options, such as gold, pewter, and bronze. Give the cufflinks before the ceremony and your groomsmen can wear them during the big event.

5. Keg-A-Que: The ultimate in outdoor grilling, the keg-a-que, one of the most popular groomsmen gift ideas available, is just what it sounds like. A mini grill made from a keg! It's small and portable enough to be taken on tailgating events or on camping trips, and is ideal for a quick steak dinner. The opportunities are limitless with the durable, completely metal, and fun Keg-A-Que at your groomsmen's disposal.

6. Cigar tools: From a humidor to cigar cutter or even silver Zippo lighter, the cigar smoker in your life will thank you. In terms of humidors, the options are limitless: choose from classic cherry wood or mahogany, or even a pocket-sized cigar holder/flask combo. Now your groomsmen and best man can enjoy a cigar after the ceremony.

7. Golf accessories: Ideal gifts for groomsmen, golf accessories remain a popular choice. After all, an afternoon on the golf course may be just what your friends love to do to unwind. So, give them something they'll appreciate: mini-golf divot tools, a golf bag with their initials, or even a pewter golf ball marker set. Now, they can hit the links in style.

8. Poker pieces: A great way to celebrate a guys' night out! On Poker Night, there's nothing but good food and good friends. Highlight these memories with unique gifts for your groomsmen, such as top-of-the-line Vegas-style poker chips and professional cards or a fully-equipped poker set in a durable wooden case! The poker aficionado will love being able to host his own Poker Night.

Purchasing Gifts for Groomsmen

Oftentimes, you can find the best deals online or in specialty wedding catalogues. Another option is to hit your local sporting goods store when there's a sale running. Deciding on groomsmen gift ideas may be the farthest thing from your mind, but they're important purchases. Surprise your friends and show them that you appreciate their help with the wedding events - from grill accessories to Poker Night festivities, your best friends will get a kick out of their gifts! Groomsmen now have a reason to celebrate too!