Bridal registries are a wonderful thing…they enable us to pick out a gift for the bride and groom that we know will be used and appreciated. On the other hand, sometimes it is nice to give a gift that is unique and memorable. Here are several ideas of gifts for the newlyweds that will be both useful and memorable.
One such gift that my husband and I received, that I continue to use regularly, is a casserole dish and cookbook given to me by my Aunt Anne and Uncle Peter. Aunt Anne, who is a fabulous cook, gave me copy of her favorite cookbook in which she had hand-written comments and tips throughout, such as delicious, works well as an appetizer or side dish, we prefer without the olives, etc. Every time I make a recipe out of that cookbook I think of my aunt and the special memories I have from our family reunions. A personalized casserole dish would pair well with the cookbook…find directions for making one from our Gift Giving 101 series: Etched Glass.
I recently gave some table linens and napkin rings I found in the bridal registry, but also included a devotional book for couples* in the wedding gift. In the card I explained how my husband and I have been blessed, growing closer to each other as well as the Lord, by sharing a devotional together at a meal each day — a practice that I learned from my grandparents and parents, both of whom have celebrated their Golden Anniversaries…coincidence, I think not!
Another idea, that I got from my sister-in-law Gwendy, is to give a specially perfumed laundry detergent along with the sheets or towels from the bridal registry. The one she gave me is called Glamorous Wash by the Tyler Candle Company. I only use it to wash my master bedroom linens (that way it stays special and lasts longer.) Our sheets smell like a flowerbed of tuberoses and gardenias…very nice and romantic! Better pick up two, one for the newlyweds and one for you!
What are some unique and special wedding gifts that you have either received or given? We would love to hear your ideas!
*Check your local Christian bookstore or online for couples devotionals. There are many. Two that I have used are Moments Together for Couplesby Dennis and Barbara Rainey, and One Year Book of Devotions for Couplesby David and Teresa Ferguson. Also, the Called to be a Keeper Bible study would be a great shower gift for the bride!
(Carla and her husband Clyde will celebrate 25 years of marriage this year. With six sons and one daughter, there is never a dull moment in the Collier home! She enjoys tennis, reading and writing. Carla serves as the website editor on the Keepers Ministry Team.)
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I love these ideas Carla. Thank you for sharing. I like to give something that reminds the couple of the Lord as well, if at all possible. I needed some new ideas. This year I have given pillowcases embroidered with Scripture verses (after seeing Alesa Campbell give them at a bridal shower). Alesa is one of our writers for the website and sells these.
Anyway, I have also had the privilege of hosting a couple of showers this year and it was a blessing to be able to share a devotional with the bride-to-be about her upcoming role as a new bride and wife while the other hostesses and the mothers shared in this time as well. Sweet memories!
My husband and I received a 1 oz. silver bar with our names and wedding date engraved on it! Next week we will celebrate 25 years together-think I should cash it in? (the silver, not the guy!)