The ring is on the finger, the invitations have been sent, the arrangements have been made — it’s time to celebrate the newlyweds! The best wedding gift ideas are the ones that keep the couple in mind. Shopping the registry is always a safe bet — but off-registry wedding gifts can be a hit, too. You’ve just got to know how to do it! So, before we jump in with a few homerun ideas, let’s start with FAQs.
How do you choose great wedding gifts?
There are three ways to choose a great wedding gift — and they probably come down to your own personality! The first option is to simply shop the registry. Click, order, done. The second option is to select your go-to wedding gift. No matter the couple and no matter the wedding, this is the one gift that you always give. It’s efficient, saves you time and thought and it’s a hit every time (we included some great go-to wedding gift ideas on the list below).
And the third option is to personalize the gift to the couple. Start by paying attention to things they enjoy and their “someday” or “I wish I had time for…” references. For example, maybe you’ve heard the bride say that someday she’d love to learn how to decorate a cake, or the groom wishes he had time to pick up that film camera gathering dust. Purchase some cake decorating supplies (or a book or a class!) and a roll of film with a gift card to get it developed and encourage them to go after the things they’ve always wanted to do — together!
Can you go off-registry for a gift?
You don’t have to shop the registry, but if you do choose to go off-registry, make sure it’s personalized and special to the couple. The registry items were chosen for a reason so even if it feels boring or impersonal to you, remember they’ll still be excited to receive it! If you do go off-registry, be sure to include a receipt in case you purchase something the couple already owns.
How much should I spend on a wedding gift?
There is no hard and fast rule or etiquette on how much you should spend on a wedding gift. You might see numbers floating around on the internet, but essentially it comes down to how well you know the couple and how well you know you’re own finances! That said if we’re going to put out numbers… For a wedding where you’re going solo and the couple is more of an acquaintance, an acceptable gift will generally start at $50 and go up from there.
Is it okay to give cash as a wedding gift?
Yes! It isn’t a faux-pas to give cash as a wedding gift. The couple can use it for their honeymoon fund or registry completion and it’s 100% okay! The amount is up to you, but we suggest a range somewhere between $75 to $200 depending on a variety of factors. Co-workers can run the low range whereas close friends or family members generally run the high range. Of course, you’ll also want to consider your own financial situation, as well.
Best Wedding Gifts Under $75
For a Warm Welcome Home: Ceramic Vase + Flower Subscription
This is just a fun gift that is perfect for going off-registry for something special. Grab a new all-purpose vase (these are the best) with a note “for all the flowers to come.” Through in a month of flowers from Bouqs to get them started!
For Fun: Board Games
Board games are great wedding gift ideas for newlyweds! You can go for classics or something that better suits a certain visual aesthetic. We love this 3D wooden tic tac toe because it also serves as a fun sculptural piece for a coffee table or bookcase. For the adventurous couple, let them channel their inner hiker with this stunning Parks Game. And for something fun, Truth or Drink makes for a fun date night in!
For Practicality: Black+Decker Cordless Drill
Because every home needs one. And when they’re hanging new curtains or putting art on the wall, they’ll think fondly of you!
For Everyday + Special Days: Cake Dome and Wooden Pedestal
This gift is all about versatility! It will become a staple in the kitchen for daily purposes and gatherings alike. The platter can be used for cheese boards and cakes with or without the dome. A pretty heirloom piece!
For the Cocktail Curious: Sphere Ice Mold
For the couple who love a cocktail, these ice molds are game-changers! Throw in a bottle of their favorite spirit and you’ve got the perfect wedding gift.
For the Travellers: Portable Charger Luggage Tags
Oh, the panic and frustration of a delayed flight and a dying phone. Save the day with these handy luggage tags that charge devices, too!
For Usefulness + Beauty: Marble Serving Board
This best-selling marble serving board is a Must-Have in any kitchen. The marble regulates temperature, making it perfect for pastry and the budding baker. It’s a stunning piece for serving—imagine the charcuterie boards!—and it will last a long time. Truly a perfect gift.
For a Thoughtful Wedding Gift: Family Cookbook
If the couple is family, this cookbook is a thoughtful gift they’ll really love. Include a few recipes to get them going like Grandma’s Best Pancakes or Aunt Sherry’s “Holiday in a Cup” cocktail.
For the Home Cooks: Cookbook Stand with Protective Acrylic Panel
Avoid oil splatters on cookbooks and tablets alike with this beautiful cookbook stand. Even if the couple doesn’t cook all the time, it’s a fun wedding gift idea that adds something special to the kitchen counter. Include your favorite cookbook with a note in the front!
Easiest Wedding Gift Ideas: Something from the Registry + Wine Delivery
Pick a gift from the registry and throw in a few bottles of wine! This is one of our favorite go-to gifts for any wedding. The easiest “decide once” gift!
Best Wedding Gifts Under $150
For Two-in-One: Terrazzo Plantable Candle
Truly stunning candles make for such great gifts because a pricier candle isn’t always something you choose to buy for yourself. Another perk: you don’t run into the possibility of buying something they already have because you can’t go wrong with multiple candles! We love this one that does more with less, and here’s a tip: Food52 has the best candle selection when it comes to gifting.
For the Unexpectedly Perfect: Wind Chimes
Not something you’d think to register for, not something you generally seek out for yourself…that’s the intersection of a perfect gift. This rainbow chime is handmade and would look good on a patio, awning, back porch, you name it. The calming sound creates a dreamy ambiance perfect for wine nights on the porch.
For the Memories: Anniversary Journal
If you know the couple skews sentimental, this anniversary journal is one of the sweeter wedding gift ideas that they may not have thought of. A place to record memories as they celebrated the life they’re building together. We also love this one!
For Literally Everything: Always Pan
Magically, this pan does the job of 8 traditional cookware pieces. We’re big fans here at GWS! It comes in multiple colors and with the accessories you see here. ONE INCREDIBLE GIFT.
Also For Literally Everything: Wooden Centerpiece Bowl
It’s good for serving salads and popcorn. It holds acorns in the fall and ornaments in the winter. Everything looks good in it, and it looks good on every surface. A classic wooden bowl is on the top of our wedding gift ideas for good reason (here’s a solid alternative option for half the price, too).
For the Holiday Spirit: Set of Christmas Stockings + Newlywed Ornament
It’s not something you think about until the season comes, but a new set of Christmas stockings and a cute ornament to commemorate their holiday together is a thoughtful gift they’ll love! Tip: If perhaps baby makes 3, you already have the perfect idea for the baby shower!
For Lifelong Use: Teak Wooden Step Stool
To reach new heights, to serve as a seat, to hold decor, to help toddlers climb up—a sturdy wooden stool is a thoughtful wedding gift idea that will take on new purposes and carry memories over the years.
For Home or the Beach: Turkish Oversized Towels
You’ll likely find towels on the registry, but step it up with a pair of these oversized über absorbent towels. They are luxury.
For Accessorizing: KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachments
The KitchenAid Stand Mixer is the #1 item you’ll find on wedding registries. Assuming they’ll get one (or already have one), throw in some fun attachments like an ice cream maker or pasta attachment!
For Aromatherapy Essentials: Stone Essential Oil Diffuser
If they don’t have an essential oil diffuser, they need one. The stone diffuser by Vitruvi doubles as decor while it scents the space.
For the Park Lovers: Picnic Basket
Is there anything more classic than a picnic basket? And yet, many homes don’t have one. You’ll save the day with everything they need for wine and cheese under that romantic Oak tree!
Best Wedding Gifts $150+
For Luxury at Home: Set of Robes + Slippers
They won’t have to give up that honeymoon-hotel feel with plush robes and slippers, thanks to you! The coziest way to begin and end the day.
For Automation in Rotation: Roomba Robot Vacuum
It has over 45k positive ratings. You cannot go wrong with a robot vacuum!
Best Gift Card Ideas for Newlyweds
Gift Card for Fine Art Print from Minted
Art makes a home, but for many, it’s a personal decision. Let them choose with a gift card that also supports the artist behind the print.
“Desert Horizon” art print by #MintedArtist Jamie Lollback of @jamiejolollback photo: @amadaane design: @jamxcreative
Airbnb Giftcard
Help them look forward to their next getaway—give the gift of travel!
Gift Card to Favorite Restaurant
Where do they love to eat? This is a thoughtful gift they’ll waste no time in using!
Museum Memberships or Tickets for Special Interests
Finally, what do they love to do together? Maybe it’s ComicCon every year, weekend museum dates, their favorite band in concert…do a little digging and relish in the idea that you truly give the best gifts.