Appropriate Wedding Gifts for Any Occassion

When it comes to wedding gifts there are an infinite amount of unwritten but vital rules that range from price to practicality. You could stick to the registry, but how many items off of the registry is an appropriate number to purchase? How much does price matter in making the decision? Is it possible to spend too much money? To help clear up some of the ambiguity of this laborious task, we’re debunking some of the social dos and don’ts of wedding gift giving. 

Most couples in the modern, technological day have detailed gift registries at a number of their favorite stores, as well as those staple national stores like Bed, Bath, and Beyond. These intricate lists may be exceedingly helpful for guests who don’t have time to shop around, or for those who possibly haven’t been in direct contact with the couple for awhile. But for close friends and family members, registries might feel a little constricting. It’s at these times where it may be appropriate to ditch the registry, or go half-registry and half-wildcard, to purchase something more unique.

Going off-registry may seem like a risky move, so it’s vital to be strategic and appropriate. If this is a coworker or a distant relative you haven’t spoken to in awhile, it's probably best to purchase that crock-pot on their gift registry. The key to straying from the gift registry is to really know the couple. Be considerate and appropriate with your off-registry venture. Customized pillows and picture frames, while personal, can be cliché. Play into the interests of the couple; aim for anything that highlights their personalities without being too typical.

Art is one of those categorizes you want to stay away from. Unless the couple specifically referenced a certain piece or artist, it’s best to go with something that the couple will be eager to accept. Memberships and lessons for sports or recreation clubs are also a creative way to gift the happy couple something useful, but also meaningful.

Another issue that arises with gift registries is how much money you should spend, or how many items from the registry is a sufficient number to purchase. If you spring for a practical item you know they need on the cheaper end of the spectrum, should you also counter it with something on the pricier end? It’s beneficial to go into these situations with a set amount of money that you want to spend on the couple. If you’re close to the future newlyweds, your budget might be more generous. With your set monetary limit in mind, look for items you’re confident in. Although towels aren’t the most exciting gift, pair that with matching his and her glassware that you know they'll love, and you've just found a very enjoyable gift. Trust us; there’s a reason for each item on that registry. Although the gifts may not be riveting to you, the couple will need these practical purchases as they embark on their future together.

Although you may feel compelled to shell out a bigger price limit for couples you know on an intimate level, it’s also important to keep a base limit. Ideally, you should never spend less than $50 on a gift, or a number of gifts, to the happy couple. Even if you don’t happen to be close to the couple, you should consider the amount of time and money it took to invite you and others to their wedding! And considering they’re starting off on a new life together, they could realistically use the money for important things, like a mortgage or starting a family. If you don’t feel comfortable exceeding this $50 minimum limit but want to purchase a big-ticket item on their list, ask others who are attending the wedding and see if they’re willingly to go in on a big purchase with you. This can work well for both you and the couple, because oftentimes the biggest and most expensive items are the ones never bought.

Gifting money or a gift card should comply with the same rules as giving other gifts. Keep to your budget and make certain your card and message is thoughtful. Joking about how you had no time to go shopping or how lazy you are is never a good strategy. Gift cards should be for stores either on the registry or stores you specifically know the couple shops at. Although cash or a gift card is an easy option, make sure you still come across as thoughtful and caring! It is a wedding, after all; you have to make sure the couple feels your love!