A Gift To The One You Love

Engagement gifts, shower gifts and wedding gifts in general have been generously poured upon the two of you since the day you both heralded the latest development in your lives: your engagement. Everything from toasters to toasting glasses will be bestowed upon you both. But, the most meaningful and cherished gifts you'll receive will probably be the gifts exchanged between the two of you. This long-standing gift-swap between the bride and groom is a tradition you may or may not want to uphold; maybe you haven't really given much thought to this tradition or have not even heard about such a tradition existing. Don't fret. This gift interchange isn't a requirement by any means, but for those interested, you'll soon see that the task at-hand isn't going to be complex or boggling.

Discuss this gift exchange with your fiancé. If the wedding expenses are already causing a burden to your pocketbooks, then you may want to forego this tradition; although, a gift as simple as a heartfelt, hand-written letter would make a lovely gift and wouldn't cause any financial strain. Also, keep in mind that the expense and size of the gift is not what is important here. If this is the thought behind the gift exchange, you've probably missed the meaning and point behind the whole tradition. Small or large, expensive or homemade, this gift should come from the heart. The gesture becomes a sign to mark the occasion-- the moment preceding one of the most important days of your life: the day you become husband and wife.

What gift could hold such special significance? You decide. As mentioned above, the gift isn't intended to deplete your savings account and it certainly isn't meant to add any further stress onto your presently hectic wedding planning schedule. We'll suggest several traditional and non-traditional gift ideas in the lists below. Draw ideas from our suggestions to come up with the perfect gift for your beloved.

For Her:

• Earrings
• Bracelet
• Necklace/locket
• Watch (engraved)
• Jewelry/music box (with engraving)
• Her favorite perfume
• A beautiful bouquet of her favorite blooms
• Elegant stationery set
• Spa certificate

For Him:

• Watch (engraved)
• Cufflinks
• Desk clock
• Leather desk set
• Leather journal
• Humidor with fine cigars
• Tickets to favorite sporting event

For Him or Her:

• Sterling frame with photo
• Memory book/scrapbook filled with photos from your relationship
• Gift basket filled with his/her favorite goodies
• Bottle of fine wine

If traditional is what you tend to steer away from, then let your imagination lead you to the perfect gift. If you'd rather give gold-dipped roses, a bouquet in a vintage vase, ski lift passes to his/her favorite resort or a framed poem you've spent months writing, then go right ahead. Don't let non-existent rules or unrealistic gift ideas strain your desire to get your future spouse a special gift. If the gift is from your heart, the receiver will be even more emotionally moved.

Before meeting at the altar, set aside some time for this gift exchange. It would be great if you can steal your loved one away for a few moments on the night of the rehearsal dinner and exchange your gifts at that time. Otherwise, anytime before the nuptial event would be appropriate. And, remember the most important gift of all will be the love you give faithfully and completely for the rest of your lives.