gifts-groom, parents-tip

When choosing a gift for your new husband, consider what's special to him and realize that you don't have to spend too much money. This gift should be something lasting that will remind him of your wedding day for years to come.

Just because he's a man doesn't mean he doesn't appreciate meaningful gifts. If there ever was a time to give a sentimental gift, it's now. Celebrate starting your new life together! As long as you express your honest feelings, he'll be sure to love and appreciate what you give him.

Consider choosing a gift that took craftsmanship and care to make. Personalizing your gift shows the thought you put into finding the gift. You can also express your feelings about your relationship and this momentous day. If it's metal, have it etched; if it's cloth, weave something personal; if it's canvas, paint it on. Include your wedding date as an extra-special reminder.

Here are some ideas for personal gifts:

A leather-bound or antique copy of his favorite book
A framed original drawing, painting, photograph or print by his favorite artist
A collection of poetry written to him
A watch engraved with your wedding date
A keepsake box
A scrapbook of your relationship
A souvenir to remember your honeymoon
Memorabilia of his favorite athlete or sports team
Regardless of what you choose to give your groom, he'll appreciate the effort you put into finding it. It'll be sure to serve as a fond reminder of the day he began life as your husband.


As you and your spouse join together in marriage, you also join your families together. Offering both sets of parents a token of your affection and appreciation will help to begin these relationships on a positive note.

You don't have to spend a lot of money; your parents know you're going to have a lot of new expenses. However, do spend the same amount on both sets of parents.

Choose something personal to commemorate the joining of the two families, such as a:

Pewter or sterling silver picture frame engraved with your names and wedding date to frame your wedding photograph
Candelabrum engraved with a personal message
Gift certificate to a restaurant or a resort
Coffee table book with quotations about weddings, parents or children
Framed photograph of the two of you with each set of parents
Decoratively arranged basket of their favorite gourmet foods
Photo collage that includes the family and its newest member
Statuette, painting or drawing that reflects their interests
Bottle of wine with a personalized label or a bottle of their favorite champagne or cognac
Painting of the two of them
Whatever you choose, your tokens of affection will help to establish a bond between the families and their newest members. Your parents will appreciate that you remembered them on your special day.

When choosing a gift for your bride, consider what's special to her. You don't have to spend much; your gift should be a lasting token to remind her of your wedding day.

Take some time to think about your future wife's nature and personality. Select a gift that's likely to complement her characteristics and show her that you've put time, thought and effort into its selection.

If she loves to try new and exciting things, book her a flying lesson or a balloon ride. If she loves private and intimate keepsakes, get her a sparkling glass 'Cinderella slipper' with your wedding date inscribed on it.

Personalizing a gift makes your gift a lasting reminder of your thoughtfulness. You can share your feelings on almost any kind of gift. If it's metal, etch it in; if it's cloth, weave it in; if it's canvas, paint it on. Remember to put your wedding date somewhere on it, too!

Here are some suggestions for some personal gifts:

A leather-bound or antique copy of her favorite book
A framed original drawing, painting, photograph or print by her favorite artist
A framed copy of the music and lyrics of her favorite song
A collection of poetry written to her
A watch engraved with your wedding date
A pair of earrings matched to the style of her wedding ring
A keepsake box
A scrapbook charting your relationship
A CD burned with her favorite songs
Flowers for the new garden you'll plant together at your home
Remember that a simple, inexpensive gift is every bit as valuable as an expensive one if it makes your wife feel special, commemorates the love you feel for her and indicates your intention to spend the rest of your lives together.

where do you find all of these tips? How do I get this to my FH tactfully? I want to get him something for a wedding gift but I don't want him to feel bad if he doesn't get me something. I don't think he really knows about this custom.

i get them through an email--it is lifeserve.com

i kind of mentioned this tradition to my fi jokingly....i told him to start thinking about gifts for the guys and not to forget my gift either! he was like i have to get you a gift too- and i said yep---and then he asked if i was getting him one as well..... now it's like ajoke b/w us b/c we are spending so much $$--we keep teasing each other that we might not have any $ left to buy each other gifts but of course we will!!!!

thanks! unfortunately I can't use the same tactic as you since he already got the guys gifts.