Love and Lobster Coastal New England Weddings

Great bridesmaids are worth their weight in princess-cut diamonds when it comes to pulling off your wedding with fun and flair. After paying for a dress, dedicating their weekends to painstaking wedding favor ribbon-tying, and shielding you from mother-in-law drama, even the best bridesmaid can’t help but carry some baggage. So why not make lugging it around a bit more stylish? Do the girls a favor and consider a cute bag as a bridesmaid gift.

Whether a duffel, a tote or a clutch, a fashionable bag stitched and sewn in coastal New England isn’t hard to find. In Maine, Portland’s historic Old Port district is home to Sea Bags, whose motto, “Sailed around the world, recycled in Maine,” just about says it all. For over a decade, Hannah Kubiak and Beth Shissler have been transforming recycled sails into durable, waterproof totes unlike any other. Each bag features handles that have been authentically hand “spliced,” a technique used by sailors to join and strengthen rope. Even Popeye would be proud.

Just outside the Old Port, you’ll find AU Inc., another Maine-based bag maker that heels toward a nautical touch but also offers fresh designs by local graphic artist Erin Flett. The SoHo shoulder bag is a great option for stashing everyday items, while the zippered tote can “fit four beach towels with room to spare.” Check out AU’s retail store on Portland’s bustling Commercial Street for a closer look.

If you’d like your bridesmaids to have something to show for their mad ribbon-tying skills, sign up for a bridal bag party at Anna Street Studio in Portsmouth, N.H., where the design staff will help you choose from more than 200 fabrics and, of course, ribbons to create your own bags. BYOB with some snacks and make a night of it. (Blame it on the wine if your creations don’t turn out well, then shop the studio’s ready-made collection of trendy wristlets, wallets and totes for a replacement, or order custom bags from the pros).

A list of personal gift ideas just isn’t complete without mentioning Etsy, the online emporium of handmade merchandise that brings the (inspiringly professional) craft fair to your laptop. Check out the colors on these glazed linen clutches imprinted with a gorgeous lotus flower design that can be matched to your bridesmaids’ personalities. And these blossom-bedecked clutches could easily stand in for a bouquet as your attendants walk down the aisle. Not keen on flowers? Take a look at these customizable silk bow bags that give coordinating a modern twist.

Don’t put the “maid” in bridesmaid. Treat your girls to a thoughtful gift. You’ve got it in the bag.