Choosing the perfect gift for newlyweds is no small feat. Though the pressure of picking something that stands out without breaking the bank may seem overwhelming at first, there are a number of ways to make gift-giving more straightforward and less stressful. Below are some important tips on gift etiquette that can help you find the perfect wedding gift for the occasion.
Start With the Registry:
Many couples choose to start up a universal gift registry that includes their favorite stores and ideas for specific gifts that they would enjoy. In many cases this can make picking the right gift a cinch, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box, either. A registry offers a glimpse of the couples’ tastes and style, but it’s certainly not taboo to buy something that isn’t listed.
Make it Meaningful:
If you decided to stray from the registry and get more creative with your gift, make sure you give the couple something meaningful. It could be anything from a handmade symbol of love to a family heirloom or a piece of your art or furniture that they admired, so long as it demonstrates effort and thoughtfulness.
Consider a Group Gift:
Sometimes, the perfect gift for a newly married couple is something that no one could be expected to afford on their own. Pooling resources to buy that one special gift may make for a more thoughtful and appreciated show of support. Buying something as a group is also a great way to give a memorable gift for those on a tighter budget.
Go With Cash:
If all else fails, money is never an unsuitable gift, especially if the couple doesn’t have a registry or if you are worried about picking something they are sure to enjoy. Gifts of money make the financial burden of a wedding and honeymoon less stressful for the bride and groom, which is never a bad thing.
Spend Appropriately:
While there are plenty of different guidelines for how much to spend on a gift, it probably isn’t worth getting in a fuss over. The general consensus is that you should expect to spend no less than $50, but keep in mind that typically the price of a suitable gift goes up the closer you are to the couple.
Be Timely:
While tradition holds that you have a full year after the wedding during which to send your gift, most experts agree that giving it much earlier is ideal. Many people opt to bring their gifts to the wedding, while some have it delivered directly to the couple’s home, particularly if the gift is heavy or unwieldy. In either case, be sure to factor in shipping and delivery times when purchasing a gift.
Include the Receipt:
While nobody wants to imagine the gift they’ve carefully chosen being returned, the simple truth is that sometimes it happens. It isn’t an insult, and it doesn’t mean that the gift wasn’t appreciated: they may have gotten two of the same thing from their registry or found that they don’t have the room or a use for it. Including the receipt means that if nothing else, your gift will help them buy something else they might need instead of letting it gather dust in the closet.
Weddings are meant to be a joyous occasion for everyone involved, so keep these tips in mind to ensure that your quest to pick the perfect wedding gift doesn’t become a nightmare. At the end of the day, the couple will be happy and you will have one less thing to stress over!