Wedding Gifts-Giving And Receiving
Article 15 of 28: Your Complete Wedding Planner
Wedding Gifts:
Giving and Receiving
Weddings naturally involve a lot of gifts - both giving and receiving. Learn how be a gracious gift-receiver by creating your perfect gift registry, and also be a great gift-giver by choosing unique wedding gifts or personalized wedding gifts to give to your wedding party.
Gift Registry Basics
One of the fun things you get to do when planning your wedding is registering for gifts. But make it easy for yourself and your guests - be organized and offer them a wide selection in both price and types of gifts. You'll want to set up your registry soon after your engagement, since some people like to purchase gifts early to congratulate you or to give to you as a shower gift.
You should decide as a couple what you want to register for...and don't feel like you have to go the traditional route. If you don't like to cook, don't register for elaborate cookware that you'll never use. It's perfectly fine to register for tools or electronics or even camping gear...as long as it is something you'll use. But do be open to how things might change in the future. Just because you don't host dinner parties now doesn't mean you won't in the future.
Since it’s not appropriate for the bride or groom to ask for wedding gifts, you need to be careful with how you let people know where you’re registered. Do not include registry information with your wedding invitations -- word of mouth is the appropriate way to disseminate this information. It can also be listed on your bridal shower invitations since the invitation does not come from you. You can also include the information on your wedding web page.
And remember to be gracious. Thank-you notes for gifts received before the wedding should be sent within two weeks of arrival. Notes for gifts received on or after the wedding day should be sent within a month of your return from the honeymoon.
Wedding Party Gifts
It is traditional for the bride and groom to select personalized or unique wedding gifts for the members of their wedding party. What works for one person might not work for another, and thankfully, you don't have to give everyone the same gift - but do try to keep them in the same price range.
Make sure your gift is timeless and multi-functional. A popular type of personalized gift for your wedding party is anything that is engraved or monogrammed. Engraved bracelets and compacts and monogrammed tote bags or cosmetics bags are thoughtful choices for bridesmaids. Likewise, engraved money clips, cuff links or flasks and monogrammed duffel bags are popular choices for groomsmen. Personalized wedding gifts are a great way to thank the special people who are taking part your big day.
Keep in mind that there is no need to be extravagant or lavish while choosing unique wedding party gifts. These keepsake gifts are not judged by their size or price, but rather by the thought behind them.
Parents' Gifts
It has recently become customary to give a gift to your parents as a token of appreciation for all they have done for you and to symbolize your continuing family ties. This gift can be many things: a nicely framed photo from the wedding, an engraved bowl or vase, a plaque that bears a heartfelt poem, a nice clock or a wine bottle carrier are all acceptable gifts. Just keep in mind their interests and their level of sentimentality.
Wedding Favors
Giving your guests a memento, or favor, on your wedding day is a long-standing tradition. It's a way to thank your family and friends for helping you celebrate your special day. From personalized to homemade, there are endless ideas for wedding favors.
- Give traditional favors based on your family's cultural/religious/historical background.
- Give a favor that symbolizes a favorite hobby or activity you and your groom share.
- Show off your artistic ability and unique style by making your own favors.
- Give a favor that promotes a lasting memory, such as a picture frame or engraved bud vase.
The gifts you receive and the gifts you give for your wedding will be cherished for years to come, so remember; when it comes to gifts, it's best to be a gracious giver and receiver.
