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The Spruce / Amelia Manley
The soon-to-be newlyweds deserve an extra special wedding gift to commemorate their milestone moment. We researched the best wedding gifts, paying attention to product quality, thoughtfulness, and gifting value for those who don't have a wedding registry to work off of.
While there can't be a best overall gift for all couples, we especially liked the MASTERSCreative Faceless Custom Portrait, as it offers a unique and personal sentiment that will stay with the couple forever.
Here are the best wedding gifts on the market.
MASTERSCreative Faceless Custom Portrait
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Etsy
Customized gifts with a personal touch—be it first and last initials, a product that integrates your recipient's hobbies, or even a custom portrait illustration. With Etsy shop MASTERSCreative, you'll send a high resolution of your newly engaged couple when you place your order so that the artist can match each detail as accurately as possible.
It's up to you to decide the background color, and you can opt for either a digital or physical print, available in three sizes. If you want to include more than just the couple, you can request up to 15 characters in the illustration (just note that the price goes up with each addition) and opt for either a physical or digital print.
Keep in mind like any other customized gift, this portrait will more than just a few days for creation and shipping. But in the end, we think it's a worthwhile and unique present that can be cherished forever.
Price at time of publish: $21
Parachute Waffle Towels
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Zola
Help the bride and groom freshen up their newlywed bathroom with this cozy set of Parachute waffle towels, which happens to be the company’s best-selling and most popular towel set. Made of 100 percent long-staple Turkish cotton, the set comes with two bath towels and two hand towels, available in four posh colors.
Price at time of publish: $156 for Towel Set
Goldbelly Pizza Subscription
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Goldbelly
For the couple that loves great food, Goldbelly makes a slew of delicious gift baskets and subscriptions, which have been tested and loved by editors at The Spruce. For a monthly fee, your designated recipients will receive Goldbelly’s hand-selected pizzas from the best pizzerias nationwide—from the likes of Chicago’s Gino’s East to Brooklyn’s Coal Oven to Nebraska’s Unique Rocket Inn and more.
Our tester found the options were unique finds from local businesses across the country, and that anyone interested could search the site by diet to find the samplers they could most easily enjoy. On the downside, the lack of guarantee on shipping guidelines was a slight disappointment. Overall, however, our tester determined that Goldbelly’s tasty gifts are extremely diverse and can satisfy almost any type of customer. (Keep in mind, these could make great anniversary gifts, too).
Price at time of publish: $90 monthly
Uncommon Goods Journey of True Love Serving Bowl
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Uncommon Goods
"True love is not a destination, but a journey shared by the travelers on its path." This is the inscription engraved around the edge of this stunning stoneware serving bowl. This hand-crafted bowl made by artisan Bryan Becker of Hartland, Wisconsin is perfect for holding a colorful dinner salad for the table, a bowl of heavily buttered popcorn for sharing on Movie Night, or a side dish to pass on Thanksgiving.
This bowl could also make a perfect bridal shower gift, gift to the bride or groom from the wedding party, or anniversary gift. It’s made in the USA, and microwave and dishwasher safe. Most orders are said to ship within 24 hours.
Price at time of publish: $85
Bambüsi Bamboo Cheese Board & Cutlery Set with Slide-Out Drawer
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For the couple who loves to entertain, a charcuterie board is a modern day must-have. To display assorted hors d'oeuvres in style, this large charcuterie board from Bambusi is crafted of chemical-free, all natural organic bamboo, with a drawer that slides out for additional space and goes back in to hide the extras. It also comes with four cheese knives, a wine opener, a carrying bag, and more. Water resistant and durable, this charcuterie board is resistant to knife marks as well.
The board also works not only as a wedding gift, but as a housewarming gift or a gift for the best man or maid of honor. It can also be used as a regular cutting board or simple serving platter for delicious appetizers.
Price at time of publish: $80
Cleanse Gourmet Shower Steamers, Peppermint Eucalyptus
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Terrain
Add a pack of Peppermint Eucalyptus Shower Steamers to a gift bundle or give it on its own to your best man, groom or groomsmen, and assure them an invigorating shower awaits the next morning. One standup pouch includes five shower steamers, each comprising a simple blend of organic peppermint essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, dried eucalyptus leaves, baking soda, epsom salts, and witch hazel. Just toss a steamer into the shower and let it dissolve in the steam as you breathe in the refreshing aroma. (We place our steamers right on the drain, but you could put yours up higher for a greater concentration of scent if you prefer).
Be assured you’re giving a quality gift as these steamers are cruelty-free, made in small batches in Aiken, South Carolina USA. They're vegan, dye-free, and have a full year’s shelf life.
Price at time of publish: $22
PortalCompact Two Person Hammock
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PortalCompact
Outdoorsy couples will enjoy lounging on this spacious two-person hammock, either stretched between the trees in their own backyard or stashed in a backpack for their next camping or hiking adventures. Lightweight and easy to transport, this hammock comes equipped with tree straps, a cord, carabiner clips, and it can support a whopping 600 pounds. A pocket pouch hangs handily off the side to hold your wallet, keys, or anything else you need to keep track of while you rest.
Available in blue with grey, this nylon hammock can be used in an assortment of ways, such as spreading on the ground as a sleeping surface or doubling as a yoga mat.
Etsy Personalized Constellation Map
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Etsy
Let the lucky couple cherish forever the moment they met with this Personalized Constellation Map. Just submit the couple’s names, and the date and location of their first-ever meeting to the crafters at EtchCraft on Etsy, then choose from four sizes and two colors, and the result will be a lovely arrangement of the constellations at that precise place in time. At the top will appear the phrase, “Under this sky it all began”, unless you have a different preference, which can be requested at the time of your order.
The handmade map is set on a ¾ inch thick rectangle-shaped piece (except for the 8 x 8 inch square option) of Grade A Baltic Birch wood, with graceful writing etched on its surface to note the occasion. This crafter ships from Blaine, Washington USA and returns are accepted. This map would also work well as an anniversary gift or a wall hanging for a new baby’s nursery.
Price at time of publish: $47
Martha Stewart's Newlywed Kitchen: Recipes for Weeknight Dinners and Easy, Casual Gatherings
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Amazon
To ensure their entertaining days are off to a creative and tasteful start, Martha Stewart offers 304 pages of brilliant recipes for the modern couple. Let them flip through this masterpiece together for everything from basic meals to brunch dishes, party favorites and, of course, decadent desserts. Best of all, everything is simple to make with beautiful photos to illustrate each one, leaving out any ingredients too exotic for your neighborhood grocery store to carry.
Great for both the experienced and novice cook, this cookbook gives not only recipes, but tips on the best ways to store foods and ingredients to be kept in the pantry. Give this cookbook alone or in a bundle with a variety of cooking utensils, a fully stocked spice rack, a set of aprons, or a collection of serving dishes for maximum impact.
Price at time of publish: $40
Click & Grow The Fruit & Veggie Kit
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Click & Grow
Maintaining good health is extremely important, and we all know fresh fruits and veggies are integral to the matter. With this innovative gift, you can give your newlyweds treats like strawberries, mini-tomatoes, and chili peppers grown directly on their kitchen counter, to toss into each and every meal they make. The Click and Grow Smart Garden offers newbie gardeners a chance to learn about indoor gardening while growing the tiny versions of tasty produce right in their kitchens.
Included with the Smart Garden are the lights, plant packs of soil, nutrients and seeds, and the automatic watering system you’ll need, so you won’t have to worry about missing any of it. You can choose your preference of a three plant pack or nine plant pack Smart Garden, and the supplies will last a full year. Best of all, the company will replace every plant pack that doesn’t sprout, and for every Smart Garden purchased, the company will plant a tree.
Price at time of publish: $126
Uncommon Goods Organic Chai Gift Set
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Uncommon Goods
For the chai drinkers, look no further than this attractive handmade chai set. The creator actually grinds the organic spices by hand in North Carolina, using a multi-generational Indian technique that results in a warmly scented blend of ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, black peppercorn, and nutmeg.
This masala chai blend is made to go with the set’s black assam tea, which comes alongside the set’s tiny silver spoon, all wrapped together inside a hand-crafted silk storage bag compiled of the crafter’s sari collection. The set can make up to 24 cups of tea and includes an instruction card on how to make chai.
Price at time of publish: $36
Rayliad Couples Conversation Starter Cards
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Amazon
Over 630 cards ask the questions that tap into the minds of those playing, offering everything from breezy, simple topics to subjects that delve deeply into the soul, including dreams, fears, likes/dislikes, memories, dating, favorites, and even some naughty questions.
The creators had improving communication and strengthening relationships in mind when they made these cards, so players should leave their argumentative sides at the door. This deck is great for all types of couple—not only for freshly married couples, but also folks dating long-term, and even as anniversary gifts for those who’ve been together for decades.
Price at time of publish: $26
Etsy Netflix and Chill Gift Box
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Etsy
All they need to bring is the wine when you gift them this Movie Night Gift Box from Etsy’s ModernGiftandArt. Contents include two "Netflix and Chill" inscribed wine glasses and a corkscrew, a printed card with the saying "Let’s Go Wine Tasting on the Couch", an embroidered pillow, a set of giant matches to light the inscribed hand-poured soy wax candle, and two pairs of toasty cotton socks.
Harry & David Bulb-of-the-Month Club
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Harry & David
The gift of fresh-growing flowers from the bulb is always a delight, especially since you can plant them and watch them come up every year if you wish! Choose this gift for your newlywed friends, and starting in April, the Bulb-of-the-Month Club subscription from Harry & David will be sent to their doorstep monthly. From there, they’ll continue to get fragrant and colorful flowers for your choice of three, six, or twelve months, enjoying such lovely bulbs as tulips, amaryllis, lilies, paperwhites, daffodils, and more.
Price at time of publish: $200 monthly
Etsy Personalized Date Night Dice
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Etsy
Just in case the happy couple ever has trouble deciding what to do for Date Night, gift them this set of Personalized Date Night Dice. This engraved set of three wooden dice can display the couple's names and up to 15 characters for the customized activity on each side—or go with a standard activity/phrase if you prefer. Examples include food choices, date activity ideas, and post-date affairs.
Price at time of publish: $25
Serena & Lily Hyannis Linen Pajamas
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Serena & Lily
A wonderful selection for your dearest couple or member of the bridal party, these jammies are cozy in the winter and cool in the summer. The top has buttons made of mother of pearl, and the elastic waist has a drawstring. Available in four sizes in a gentle blue and white gingham pattern, this set is made in Portugal and crafted of 100 percent European linen which has passed rigorous testing for harmful chemicals.
Price at time of publish: $158
UGG UGG Women's Blanche Ii Robe
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For the bride or her bridesmaids, this cushy UGG ladies’ robe is available in eight sizes and ten chic colors. Imported with a fleece lining and 92 percent cotton shell, this robe has a belt, substantial side pockets, and a shawl collar. Machine washable, this gem will likely be the comfiest robe she’s ever had. Of remarkably high quality, the UGG robe is ideal for lounging during the winter, especially if nursing a cold or caring for kiddos or a husband with one. Note that this robe fits true to size and runs a bit longer in the back than in the front.
Price at time of publish: $98
Yeti Rambler 10 oz Stackable Mug
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Amazon
For the groom or his groomsmen, YETI mugs are a great gift for anyone who enjoys a great beverage at the right temperature. Designed to keep your beverage hot or cold, the 10 ounce Rambler Stackable Mug has double-wall vacuum insulation, is made of sturdy stainless steel, and boasts a "No Sweat" design to keep moisture from accumulating on the sides. They also won’t peel or fade due to their Duracoat lining on the outside and are dishwasher safe.
Price at time of publish: $25
Etsy Candle Bridal Shower Favors
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Etsy
Brides, consider tossing these blissfully scented candles into your bridal/wedding shower favor bags for a personalized thank you from the heart. Available in two or four ounce sizes in groups of 20 to 100, these handmade soy wax candles can be ordered in vanilla, sea salt and orchid, Caribbean teakwood, or white sage lavender scents. Add your name to personalize the lids, and your order will ship from the company’s North Carolina address within three business days or fewer.
Price at time of publish: $85
Chagrin Valley Soap Wood Shaving Bowl, Soap, & Gift Set
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Chagrin Valley Soap
For the groom’s bundle, this shaving kit comes equipped with moisturizing organic soap, a sustainably harvested sheesham wood shaving bowl, and a made-to-order olive wood shaving brush sure to prevent skin irritation for most skin types. The set also comes with a card describing the wood used to create the shaving brush.
Made with superb craftsmanship and sent in eco-friendly packaging, the Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve Shaving Gift Set is also certified ‘Made with organic ingredients’ by OEFFA, the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association.
Price at time of publish: $60
Etsy Custom Wedding Robes
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Etsy
While primping for the big day, brides and bridesmaids (and maybe even the mothers of the bride and groom) deserve something silky and comfy to wear that helps them relax and makes them feel lovely. The ladies can’t go wrong with a set of these sumptuous robes for getting ready on the day of the wedding. Choose from numerous colors and several fonts, and you can either opt for the names of the bridesmaids i.e. “Lauren” and bride “Mrs. Stewart” or simply “bridesmaid” or “bride” written on the backs.
Price at time of publish: $30
Georg Jensen Sky Cocktail Shaker
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Horchow
Take their cocktail game up a notch with this Georg Jensen Sky Cocktail Shaker. Sleek and sophisticated, their home bar will be complete when they add this stainless steel imported shaker, at eight inches tall and three inches in diameter. Whether you’re making a margarita, daiquiri, mojito or otherwise, if a shaker is necessary, it should look and work like this one.
Price at time of publish: $149
Spirited Gifts Wine Country Chardonnay Gift Basket
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Spirited Gifts
For the wedding, first anniversary, or a variety of other celebrations the couple will enjoy together, the Wine Country Chardonnay Gift Basket is the perfect gift. It comes with snacks on the side like brie, caramel popcorn, butter flavored pretzels, and fruit jellies, as well as a reusable basket wrapped in a tasteful bow, and several items can be added for a little extra—including glasses, a cork, and cigars. The bottle can also be engraved to commemorate the occasion.
Price at time of publish: $125
Beau Coup Personalized Wedding Party Flask
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Beau Coup
Personalize these flasks with your choice of title (up to 16 characters), the date of the wedding (up to eight characters), and the color of your choice (there are many options.) The front side is printed while the back remains the solid color chosen without any printing.
Each flask is made of stainless steel, can carry up to six ounces of fluid, and come with lids that easily screw off and on as needed to take a sip!
Price at time of publish: $26
What to Look for in a Wedding Gift
Themes That Celebrate Love
“I love the idea of gifts that symbolize love and companionship," says Elisabeth Jones-Hennessy, Founder and CEO of GiftMeChic. "A rose quartz crystal, for example, is known to amplify love, and looks beautiful in any decor.
Customization
When in doubt, Jones-Hennessy says that anything personal and thoughtful is the way to go. For the couple themselves, anything with their wedding date or monogrammed with their initials is sure to please. Additionally, customized robes, shirts, and jewelry boxes, make suitable gifts for brides and their bridal party, while grooms and groomsmen might enjoy a flask or tie clip.
Sentimentality
A wedding celebrates lifelong happiness, so this moment warrants a gift that honors marriage or contributes to the couple's new lifestyle. For example, a personalized art print of themselves is something that they can look at every day and relive their wedding. For something more practical, a special, high quality dinner bowl is something they can use daily in their new life together.
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How much should a best man or maid of honor spend on a wedding gift?
“That’s a difficult question as everyone's levels of income are different," says Jones-Hennessy. "Given the closeness of the bridal party members, the best gifts should have a very personal touch with meaning behind them," she adds. So while we can't put an exact number on budget, great examples are gifts that portray “insider” information that only few people would know including yourself (i.e. a framed menu of the restaurant or bar they frequent). According to Jones-Henessy, the amount of money spent on the gift is irrelevant if the gift is thoughtful and touches their hearts.
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What should I gift a best friend for her wedding?
Jones-Hennessy says that as the best friend, you are one the few people who are “allowed” to go off the registry. Other than gifts that symbolize love, some examples include sultry items for the honeymoon, a customized astrology session for the couple, or a care package that the bride can use day of.
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What is an appropriate gift for couples celebrating the 25th anniversary?
Both the traditional and modern gift for this occasion is silver, so anything silver-themed works perfectly. "But if you don't want to follow the theme, I love the idea of gathering your other family members, collecting all the photos you can find and putting them into a real photo album," says Jones-Hennessy. "Everything is digital these days, so something like a physical album gives them the chance to flip through it together, as well as leave it on their coffee table for other people to flip through."
Why Trust The Spruce?
This roundup was created by KJ Callihan. She has written several gift guides for The Spruce, as well as numerous gift, shopping, and activity guides for a variety of other sites including AAA Northeast magazine, CNET, Finfrock Marketing and more. Additionally, we consulted gift expert Elisabeth Jones-Hennessy, Founder and CEO of GiftMeChic for her guidance on wedding gift selecting. In addition to running her own gift curation business currently, Jones-Hennessy has previously worked as a buyer for Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue.