Weddings are beautiful, emotional and fun-filled events. Finding an intricately decorated, thick paper envelope in the mailbox can bring so much excitement and delight; you have been invited! The usual steps for wedding invitation acceptance are to RSVP, find an outfit, and purchase a fabulous gift for the bride and groom. The first two steps are the easiest, as saying yes and buying on your own is simple. Blind shopping is a common problem with buying wedding gifts, knowing the happy couple is often not enough to know what would be an appreciated gift. If the couple has a registry, life for the giver is much easier. The store of your choice has an easy-to-use, printable list (often with a handy item location map), which can be handed out to each guest who comes to the store to shop. The detailed list will clearly show the prices and the items that have already been purchased, which will make the selection of gifts much easier; but what to do when there is no record?
think of the couple
How well a guest knows the couple can greatly control their gift-buying abilities. If they are lucky enough to be a close member of their inner circle, they will know what they like and possibly what the partner needs. However, if a guest is more of a close acquaintance, worthy of an invite, but have never gone camping together, then buying blind is sadly the only option. The best steps in figuring out what to buy is to assess the couple in terms of age, lifestyle, and lifestyle. If the couple is young and not yet living together until after the wedding, the usual house-related gifts may be needed. If the couple is a little older and they have already established a home together, it is necessary to be more creative, for example, a gift basket with champagne and sweets; something they could take and use on their honeymoon or cherish when they return. There is no right or wrong in gift-giving, as long as it is bought and given with good intentions; usually it’s just the rushed, last-minute, thoughtless gift that can be disappointing.
What if there is literally nothing to find?
Money! The almighty dollar can usually prove to be a fantastic and appreciated gift substitute. If a couple is young, the gift of money is even more appreciated because they are starting to establish their lives, their home and their furniture. However, if money is the best gift route, time and care should be put into choosing the card on which the money will be delivered, or at least the written message, to show a personal touch.
Gift-giving and weddings go hand in hand, but with a little forethought and a little effort you can find the perfect gift that will be greatly appreciated.