CARLA G. Casual pants

Weddings offer a rare opportunity to gather all of one's favorite people -- his and yours -- into one room for a fabulous time. Far before the wedding day arrives, you'll have chosen your most intimate friends to take their positions within the bridal party as bridesmaids and groomsmen. Thanking these special bridal party members with a gift is customary. You can do so before the wedding at various points: during the bachelor or bachelorette weekend or at the rehearsal dinner, for instance. Others do it while getting ready for the wedding, especially if the gift is something the guests might use to spruce themselves up, such as earrings or cuff links. Below, we've gathered an affordable selection of wedding party gifts. Believe it: For $10 and under, you can offer your bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts they'll use and enjoy for years to come from Amazon, Etsy, Walmart and other popular online stores.

Whether you're already living with your spouse, newly married and merging homes for the first time, or looking for the perfect wedding gift for the happy couple in your life, Macy's is your ultimate one-stop shop — especially during the Macy's Black Friday sale, which has officially kicked off. This year, Macy's Black Friday deals include 20% off with promo code BLKFRI (and an extra 15% off in select departments), doorbuster deals up to 65% off, $10 off purchases of $25 or more in select departments with promo code BLKFRI25, and free shipping at $49 (some exclusions apply). The store's epic home department boasts an extensive inventory ready to outfit any abode from top to bottom — literally — so now is definitely the time to score. Because whose living space couldn't use a little refresh?

Luggage is a purchase you only make once every few years (hopefully), so it's important to shop wisely. While you're of course looking for quality travel gear that's durable and roomy, you don't want to go broke before you've even gotten to the airport. Wedding and honeymoon planning is expensive enough — so avoid spending a small fortune by shopping luggage from stores like Kohl's and Walmart. The luggage sets ahead are functional, fashionable and, best of all, affordable — they're all under $150.

The mother of the bride holds a highly esteemed position within the wedding party, and she should look the part. That's why we've assembled the best mother-of-the-bride dresses in prices under $250, and we've included plus size, tea length, long length and evening dresses so that your mom will look elegant on your big day. After all, she'll be the second most noticed woman in the room.

There are many bridal options available to moms as they shop for that moment-defining outfit. We've listed flattering mother-of-the-bride dresses that feature an array of tailored touches. Your mother can choose from dresses that include empire waists, flutter sleeves, draping, A-line skirts and strategically placed ruffles. Her attire can exude any mood, from casual to formal, and these styles can take her to any wedding, from oceanfront ceremonies to ballroom events. Shop our favorite finds below.

Taking advantage of the long Fourth of July long weekend for your wedding celebration? Tones of red, white and blue will add sizzle to the shindig. Our country's birthday invites you to imbue your wedding with classic Americana motifs. Plus, planning a patriotic party allows you to create a laid-back and casual wedding vibe.

Think out of the box when orchestrating your Fourth of July wedding. Rather than the traditional white flower girl dress, choose gingham. Instead of fancy ties or ascots, have your groomsmen wear red, white and blue bowties. Then, finish the affair with sparkling fireworks!

For your charming holiday celebration, we've pulled together a list of accessories, gifts and decor items from Nordstrom, Etsy, Williams-Sonoma and more.