No registry, no problem.
The thing with choosing a wedding gift is that it’s never too soon to pick one out. Trouble is, on top of figuring out what you’re going to wear, how you’re going to get there and where you’re going to stay, it can fast become an afterthought – which kind of defeats the purpose.
Sure, there’s plenty of beautiful dishes, photo frames, and wine glasses to choose from, but how can you show you truly care? Perhaps it’s the fact that you don’t want to be the one to present yet another dish, frame or glass. With this in mind, we’ve collated our top tips and gift ideas for your consideration below.
1. Review the registry
Find out what the soon-to-be newlyweds have arranged ahead of their big day. If they’ve organised a gift registry, perfect. This will make your decision that much easier, as all you’ll need to think about is how much you’re prepared to spend. While you might be inclined to get them something more personal, they have chosen the items in their registry for a reason – don’t leave room for disappointment or add ‘clutter’ to their new life together as newlyweds. Prefer to give cash? Even better. Most young couples today set up a honeymoon fund account you can directly transfer a sum into. Too easy.
2. It’s not me, it’s you
Some people are great at giving gifts. Others not so much. What’s worse is there are people who think they’re good at giving gifts but actually aren’t – and have no idea. When it comes to choosing the right wedding gift, it’s best to assume you’re the latter. A good rule of thumb is to really think about the couple and what they love to do with their time to ensure a meaningful gift. While there are a few among us who choose a gift that reflects themselves, a wedding gift should be about the couple in question and reflect their wants and taste. Another thoughtful tip is to add a note along with the gift explaining why you chose it for them.
3. Be realistic with your budget
Wedding gifts are traditionally on the expensive end of the gift spectrum – after all, the idea is that they’re only going to get married once, so it needs to be special. Before you even hit the stores, think about how much money you are willing to spend on them. Going to an engagement party and bridal shower before their wedding day? Split your funds 20-20-60, with the bulk of your budget going toward the wedding gift.
4. Get organised sooner rather than later
As soon as you’ve received your save the date, find out whether or not the couple has arranged a gift registry (or will do in due course). If they have, get out there – or hop online – and choose your gift, stat. By doing it sooner, you’ll have more options and be more likely to nab the good stuff instead of mulling over the ‘leftovers’.
5. Leave a note
Perhaps the most crucial part of gift giving is signing off who it’s from. If you’ve purchased the gift online, be sure to fill out the gift message so the couple knows who to thank. And if that’s not an option? Give the couple a little heads up to say they’ll be receiving a parcel from a certain brand from yours truly…
6. Know what’s out there
No gift registry? No problem. Scroll to the FQ gallery below of the ultimate wedding gift ideas for every level of generosity:
