7 ways to ask your friends to be bridesmaids

Bridesmaid proposals are a special moment in any friendship so it's natural to want to put some thought behind popping the question. Personalising gifts such as photo frames or pyjamas are a great way to give friends something they can keep forever. The glass experts at MeandMyGlass.co.uk have shared some of the best bridesmaid proposal ideas to make the occasion memorable.

John Cutts, founder of MeandMyGlass said, "Asking your friends and family to be bridesmaids is a special moment and should be done in a special way. "You can't go wrong with a personal touch which is why things like photo frames and pyjamas are a great way to show appreciation to your bridesmaids and you know they'll keep their gift.

"Weddings alone are expensive which is why we've come up with budget friendly bridesmaid proposals too like creating a DIY gift box or hosting an at home afternoon tea. Asking at least a year in advance will give them time to help you out with any wedding jobs as well as leaving ample time to plan any hen parties or bridal showers so if you're getting married next year you might want to pop the question soon!"

7 ways to ask your friends to be bridesmaids:

1. Send a personalised photo frame Use a picture of you and your future bridesmaid to ask them to be part of your special day. This makes for a great gift and it's something your friends will be able to keep. If you want to make it easier choose a group photo of you and your bridesmaids-to-be rather than individual ones.
2. Make a gift box Create a small gift box with wedding related items like nail polish, face masks, and a mini bottle of wine or bubbly and a handwritten note from yourself to add a personal touch. You can fill this box with whatever you like making it a great option if you're on a budget.
3. Bridesmaid robes What's a bridal party without matching robes to wear on your hen and your wedding morning! Gift each of your friends a bridesmaid robe, this could be personalised with their name or it could simply just say bridesmaid across the back. You could even swap the robes for pyjamas.
4. Send flowers Flowers are always a lovely gesture so why not send them with a personalised message asking to be part of your special day.
5. Host an afternoon tea or bottomless brunch Getting everyone together can be a great way to ask your friends to be bridesmaids. Host an at home afternoon tea or bottomless brunch with some cocktails, snacks and fun games for a memorable bridesmaid proposal!
6. Personalised cupcakes If you're asking a foodie to be your bridesmaid then you may want to consider giving them some tasty cupcakes. You could even bake these yourself to make the gesture extra special.
7. Personalised tote bags Get your friends ready for the hen and buy them personalised tote bags with their name or initial on. Make sure they're a suitable size for travelling so you and your bride squad can all match.