Wedding Gifts

The giving of wedding gifts is possibly one of the oldest customs and certainly one that is common to all cultures.

The idea behind the giving of gifts was originally to help the couple set up their home for married life. Since most couples today have already set up home or marrying for a second (or even third) time, the choice of gifts for them could be quite a problem.

It is generally assumed that guests invited to both the wedding and the reception should give wedding gifts, whether they are able to attend or not. However, guest who can't attend the wedding may send a small gift or telegram.

Gifts should be addressed to the bride's home if sent before the wedding date or to the reception venue if sent on the day.

What would you like?

You would be surprised at the number of people who will ask you what you would like as a wedding gift.

No-one wants to give a double-up or a gift that will not be used. One way to solve this problem is use a bridal gift registry with a department store, or gift store.

Delivering of Wedding Gifts

Ideally the wedding gifts given to the couple should be delivered in person or by messenger to the home of the bride during the two weeks prior to the wedding. This will save the concerns of the couple for the safety of the gifts during the reception.

However, more often the guests will bring their gifts with them to the reception venue, so it would be a good idea to have someone on standby to receive and look after the gifts until the gifts can be collected and stored away safely.

Acknowledging the Gifts

One advantage of the gifts arriving before the wedding is that the bride and groom can have a chance to see the gifts and acknowledge them before going away on their honeymoon.

Remember to take care when the gifts arrive and make a note of what gift was received and who gave the gift. Use this list when you send out the Thank you Notes.

Traditionally it was the duty of the bride to send out the notes, but there is no reason why you both can't acknowledge your appreciation for the gift.

Gifts for your Attendants

It is a lovely gesture to present your bridal attendants with a gift so that they can remember the occasion of your wedding. Try to select something that is personal and something to their taste or needs. The gift does not have to be expensive, but it should not look cheap.

The presents to your attendants are usually given before the wedding. If you don't have the time to select these gifts before your wedding, why not buy them when you are on your honeymoon.

You could then invite your attendants to a dinner party when you return from the honeymoon and give them the gifts. If you decide to do this, make sure that you send a postcard to them while you are away, so they don't feel that you have completely forgotten them.

Gifts for your Guests

Favors are a memento of the wedding given by the bride and groom for good luck. Favors can be just about anything with a wedding theme.

These could include: candles, tiny picture frames, to miniature bottles of wine. However, when purchasing a large number of favors the cost of these all add up and can become quite costly.

So try not to over spend on the favors and put the money towards the food, as good food will leave a lasting impression on your guests.