Do you know an engaged couple getting married this year? Now is the best time to think about gifts!

There was a time when everyone I knew was getting married. It’s such an exciting experience to watch your friends and family get ready for that special date months ahead of time.

That’s why February is National Wedding Month, so that everyone attending weddings throughout the spring, summer, and autumn months can learn what to expect. There are a few important guidelines when choosing a wedding gift to keep in mind.

The rule of thumb is that when you’re picking out your gift, think of it as your contribution to the wedding.

If the wedding is up-scale in a ballroom, then you want to be conscious that the bride and groom have put a lot of effort into throwing this party. Your gift should be more sophisticated.

If the wedding is more casual, such as on a beach, and the reception is also non-formal at a friend’s home or a familiar dining hall, your gift can reflect a more intimate setting where there’s less pressure for it to shine.

The best gift is one that the couple will cherish together. If you’re closer to the bride, for example, you don’t want to choose a gift that only she will enjoy. Since you are gathered to celebrate a bond, the gift should represent their unity.

If you’re still feeling nervous about what to choose, I have one more suggestion. No matter your gift, an additional item that will make it remarkable for years to come is a personalized keepsake.

There are many varieties of ornaments with couples, whether you think they would enjoy a simple one expressing love, or a more specific one representing a sport or hobby they enjoy together.

After wrapping the present, tape the personalized ornament of your choice to the top and cover the tape with a bow. Before opening the present, this will be the first detail they see, adding a bit more “togetherness” to any gift you’ve chosen.

They’ll hang this ornament on their first Christmas tree together, and remember that you were the one who thought of it.

 

Do you have your own personalized wedding gift ideas? Tell us about them in the comments below!