The Wedding List is an obvious place to start - these are gifts that the newlyweds really want. They might not be glamorous, but at least they'll be appreciated.
Stay Away From...
...anything large that's not on the Wedding List! Many newlyweds are strapped for cash, and they would rather you spent £10-£100+ on something they need than something you like but they don't!
Even if you stick to the wedding list, you can also add in something personal, to show that you really appreciate being part of their special day.
In the meantime, consider having something ready for them when they get back from honeymoon - a framed photo, or other personalised gift.
Do you have access to their house? Fill up the freezer, or arrange for flowers to be delivered when they get back from honeymoon. It's all too easy to go through the wedding and honeymoon on a high, then come back down to earth with a bump! We came home from our honeymoon to a 'welcome home' card stuck up on the internal entry door, which was a lovely surprise. It doesn't have to cost a lot to mean a lot...
When we went on honeymoon, we were given a bag with a few essentials in it and some little gifts that meant a lot. Here are a few ideas:
- The bride and groom are often too busy and excited to eat during the wedding, so put in some special biscuits.
- Add an extra roll of film, as they're bound to run out (if they haven't gone digital!).
- A little book to read at the airport
- Chocolate hearts or favourite chocolate bar
- A 'marriage is...' book or card
- Aromatherapy bath or massage oils
- Miniature bottle of champagne
- Heart-shaped or aromatherapy candle
- Cassette or CD of romantic music
- If you're really organised, get some photos developed during the Reception, and hand them over when the couple leave!
- A 'wishing you happiness' book
