Gift Giving to VIP at Rehearsal Dinner

pibsquared

So I got gifts for the people who are helping with the wedding, with making decorations/dresses/flowers/invitations/etc and wedding participants. When do you give them their gifts. Do you have a big long speech during the rehearsal dinner (like an award cermony), where you point out the key figures to making your day happen? Or do you do it privately during the rehearsal dinner, as you wander to each guest? Basically we are having a big gathering for the rehearsal all family members. Wedding party will be greeting people at the door as they arrive. Should I give gifts when I am greeting people? I feel like people should know who helped put everything together to make this day special for me but I know when I am pointed out in a crowd I feel very awkward... and I do not want to make anyone uncomfortable. What do you suggest?

dumdumfroggie

I always prefer when people give me gifts in private, or quietly.  I would hate a whole awards program thing.

chattychiqa

I have only been to 2 RD's, so my basis for comparison isn't huge. I WILL say that my sister gave everyone their gifts at the RD but it was a private conversation with each of us 3 BM's. It was nice. At the other, I was an OOT guest who witnessed the TY's and speech for each of her 8 BM's, the 8 GM's, parents....you get the picture. And everyone clapped! I don't know what norm is, but it felt like the Academy Awards. I think it's safe to say you can be appreciative without it being witnessed.

Grits8812

I think you should just say something simple recognizing their help, and how greatly it is appreciated.  Give them their gifts in private though.

sweetcanadian1979

Personally i am not going to, i don't want people to feel left out, it can be extremely awkward. I once received a gift at a wedding, that is where the bride chose to hand them out, was not fun, i imagine this would be fairly the same with such a large group & would take far too long. You are making people stay at that point where they may want to just go home & chill or back to the hotel & relax. 

Privately is more personal as well.