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I love giving thoughtful presents in general, but when it comes to buying wedding gifts I usually just figure out my budget, go online, add the gift from the registry to my basket, and checkout.  I figure the couple knows what they want already and I enjoy giving them something that they’ll use.  Anytime I think of straying and buying the happy couple something not requested I imagine all of their guests also going rogue and then picture them with 100 blenders, faced with the task of lugging everything back to 15 different stores etc etc and then  I snap out of my daydream and buy from the registry.  I’ve come to think of it as a “free rider” problem.  As long as everyone else is buying from the registry you’re allowed to think of a creative or more personal present.  In my own rules, the closer you are to the couple the more uninhibited you become by the wedding registry.  Some of my own favorite gifts were those thoughtful ones purchased or made by close friends and family members.  If you’re looking for some great wedding ideas here are My Top 10 Wedding Gifts:

1. The Gift of Relaxation - a couple’s massage.  Whether on the honeymoon or a couple months after they’ve returned to earth, this is a great gift to give the couple a little more time together stress-free.

2. Framing – Most couples have something to frame and won’t have the time or money to get it done.  It’s also something they’ll appreciate for years to come.  What to frame? Their invitations, ketubah, wedding pictures and if you don’t know then a gift certificate to a local framing shop.

3. A Family Heirloom – If you’re an aunt, great-uncle or grandparent this might be a nice time to pass on something to the new family being created.  Be it valuable or not, sentimental gifts are truly appreciated.

4. A Honeymoon Adventure – Find out where the couple is going and buy them something they may not splurge on themselves, maybe a snorkel or canopy tour.  It also may be easier to write a check for the amount you think it would be, in the hopes that the couple would be able to use it for that adventure if they chose.

5. Restaurant Gift Card – This is an especially good gift if you live far away.  That way instead of being able to actually take your friends or family out to dinner in person, you can in spirit. 

6. Their Favorite Drink – Are they into wine? Give them something to drink on their 10th anniversary or a bottle of champagne to drink now! There are plenty of choice for beer connoisseurs as well.

7. Personally Made Gift – Do you knit? Paint? Take photographs? If so, using your time to create something can be a wonderful gift because it means you took the time out of your schedule to dedicate to the couple. 

8. A Groom Present- let’s face it, most fiances pick out bedding and matching china but with varying degrees of interest.  Throwing a grill, grill utensils, a smoker or an REI gift card on the registry is a great way to balance it out and can also be more interesting for the groomsmen to buy.

9. A Piece of the Wedding – This is especially helpful for weddings on a budget.  I’ve seen family friends and family members decide to pay for the photography, gift baskets, or flowers.  There is a wide range of items to choose from that vary in price. 

10.  Entertainment – A Netflix, Gamefly or Blockbuster subscription.  Movies tickets, a popcorn bowl and gourmet popcorn.  A subscription to the local theater or tickets to their favorite sports team.  The sky’s the limit here in terms of options and pricing.

For more help planning your wedding check out other AvantBride blogs or if you’re in the Seattle area www.AvantBride.com.