wedding 2020 | GIFT GUIDE

by Anne Pyburn Craig

date posted: March 16, 2020

Long after the last dish has been washed and the honeymoon photos admired, the gifts exchanged during a wedding will remain as cherished mementos.

for the couple

The basics are simple:

• Something from the registry, something else you are confident they’ll love, or cash are all fine.

• Let your relationship and your own budget be your guide. Think of it this way: give $50–$75 for a coworker, acquaintance, or a distant relative; $75–$150 for a closer friend or relative; and $150+ for close loved ones.

• Unless you know that gifts are to be brought to the reception, send gifts to the marrying couple at home; anywhere from two weeks before to about two months after is acceptable.

There you go, that’s it, in case anyone asks. What’s a little less cut-and-dried are the other gifting possibilities within the wedding framework.

for the wedding party

• An essential-oils-based perfume or scent

• Carry pouch or clutch purse

• Jewelry engraved with wedding date

• Gift cards for a nice meal, favorite shop, or spa treatment

• Alpaca socks

favors for the guests

• Edible treats, especially locally made ones

• Sachets of bird seed or flower seed

• Deliciously scented soaps

• Origami creations

for the spouse

• A “little black book” of the best results from a boudoir photo shoot

• Items with your new monogram

• Original art

• Bottle of your favorite wine or liquor with hand-blown or etched glasses

• Tickets to a dream concert or spa day together

• Coupon book of special favors. (Have a calligrapher pen a generality like “special moment” and then add a racy handwritten promise if you like! But at least some of the favors should be safe to brag about!)

for the parents

• Letters of gratitude. Write to your own parents and also to each other’s, have a calligrapher inscribe it on special paper and present it in a fancy keepsake container.

• Hardy, beautiful plant in a handmade piece of pottery

• Digital photo frame pre-loaded with wedding images

herzog’s home center

RKingston, 845-338-6300, herzogs.com

Herzog’s gift department is truly one of a kind. Whether you’re shopping for a wedding, engagement, bridal shower, or bridesmaid party, you will be pleasantly surprised by their selection. Offerings include an exceptional selection of home décor pieces, tabletop and cookware, jewelry, and local handcrafted gifts. The best part is that they will take care of the gift-wrapping, free of charge.

kingston consignments

Kingston, 845-481-5759, kingstonconsignments.com

Kingston Consignments is a premier destination in the Hudson Valley for collectors and homesteaders alike. Beginning a new life with someone special? Turn your old clutter into cash and come shop for great deals. While you’re here, visit our Antique Center (2nd Floor and back of Ground Floor) featuring a wide range of dealer-curated furnishings, jewelry, artwork, rugs, ceramics, collectibles and more.

damn good honey farm

Kerhonkson, 845-701-1999, damngoodhoney.com

We create beeswax and honey soap in small batches using techniques dating to the 1800’s. Each bar is crafted using simple, natural ingredients like organic oils , therapeutic grade essential oils, and of course our beeswax and honey. These beautiful, artisan soaps make the perfect bridal shower gift or wedding favor. Let us help you create a one of a kind soap meant especially for you! To order a custom soap favor please allow a one month cure time. Call or email to place an order.