When it comes to giving gifts, people often say it’s the thought that counts. But if you have ever received a truly useless gift then – like us – you probably disagree with that sentiment. Since you are spending time, energy and money getting someone a gift, it might as well be one they’ll find useful.
However, even when you have good intentions, it can be difficult to strike a balance. between not being too cliché and not being too eccentric. You might be thinking to yourself: “Everybody buys dishware sets as gifts, so I’m going to get them something different” and that’s great. However, your gift should not only be different, but it should also be useful.
Below are some general directions you can follow, along with a few suggestions. Trust us, you can never go wrong with these.
A trip/experience (something the couple can do together)
Sometimes, giving the intangible is the best gift. You can give the gift of an experience, and the subsequent memory, as a gift to newlyweds. An easy way to do this is by paying for them to go on a trip or have an experience you know they will enjoy. It could be dinner on your tab, a trip to another state or country, or you (and friends, if you can’t afford it alone) can chip in to pay for their honeymoon. It’s not something they can physically keep or hang up somewhere, but good memories last forever.
Gifts tailored to the couple’s interests
If you know the couple well, you can give them a gift that is tailored to their shared interests. For example, if they are fitness buffs, you can get them an exercise equipment. Or if they are movie buffs, an annual subscription to a Netflix-type platform; for wine lovers, a bottle of fine wine. By now, you get the idea.
The good thing about this type of gifts is that because it is tailored to a shared interest, they both get to enjoy it.
Home appliances/accessories
Most new couples start setting up their new home shortly before their wedding so that often means they don’t have all the home appliances and accessories they need yet. This is your chance to give them a gift that they’ll use often, and with gratitude. While you may want to avoid the obvious ones like dinnerware and toasters (because it’s safe to assume they’ll get many from other guests), you still have a range of appliances to pick from: a food processor, a microwave, vacuum cleaner etc.
If you want to get even more creative, you can think of accessories that will complement their home. So, while it’s reasonable to assume that they already have furniture, you can still get them furniture accessories. Just think creatively: a set of arty throw pillows, vases,or even bed sets (no one ever has enough of those).
Mundane (but useful) stuff
These are the little, everyday things that people may take for granted but find useful. We are talking (nice) dustbins, laundry baskets, napkins, a custom-made cookbook filled with various Nigerian recipes, bookends, door stoppers…you know, those odds and ends. Because these gifts are little, to make it substantial, you can make a hamper of sorts containing a variety of knick-knacks.
Money
New couples need money. This is a fact. If, after getting to the end of this list, you are still stumped about what to buy, you could go with good ol’ cash. By doing so, you’ll be giving the couple the choice of buying what they really want or need. Some people consider blatantly offering money rude, so you must do it tactfully.
One final idea: Ask the couple what they want or what’s on their wish list. That way, you’ll know you’re hitting the nail right on the head.
If there is anything you think we missed out, that has worked for you in gifting, let us know!