Wedding Gift Ideas: What to Buy (and What to Avoid)

One rule of etiquette that has not changed is that the couple should never mention gifts on their wedding invitations.

If you’re at a loss for an appropriate gift, Emily Post has a few ready suggestions:

Wedding Gift Ideas for Couples Just Starting Out

• Carving set
• Microwave cookware
• Food processor
• Mirror for entry or hall
• Crystal vase
• Set of folding tables on rack
• Lamp
• Wooden salad bowl
• Large pepper grinder or salt-and-pepper set
• Items of the silver or china selected by the bride and groom

Thoughtful Gifts for Second Marriages

• A plant, tree, or shrub
• A selection of fine wines or champagnes,
• A picture frame containing a meaningful picture
• Ceramic or copper molds for cooking or decorating
• A painting or print (if you know their tastes)
• If either one has small children, sitter service for a specified period (either yourself or hired)

What Not to Give as a Wedding Gift

Even the most well-meaning gift can miss the mark. Here are a few things best left off your shopping list:

• Anything overly personal (clothing, fragrance, décor with strong opinions) unless you know the couple extremely well
• Used or re-gifted items—especially if they show wear, smell musty, or come with a mysterious backstory
• Pets (yes, it happens!)—a living creature is never a surprise gift
• Oversized or hard-to-store décor, unless it’s something they’ve specifically asked for
• Gag gifts that may feel funny in the moment but awkward later
• Gifts that require upkeep or expense, such as specialty appliances without parts or services

When in doubt, stick to the registry or choose something simple, elegant, and practical.

Funny and Unforgettable Wedding Gifts (Real Stories)

We asked readers of The Old Farmer’s Almanac to share stories of wacky wedding gifts they received. Here are a few:

• A yard ornament that reeked of mothballs, from an older couple who are friends of our parents. It must have been a “re-gift” from their own wedding.
• A bottle of Jim Beam whiskey and two glasses. I wondered if the guests thought that we were alcoholics or that my husband would need a stiff drink after the wedding!
• A life-size statue of a seagull. Where do you display such an item? In a dark space in the closet where no one can find it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an appropriate wedding gift?

A practical or meaningful item the couple will use, ideally chosen from their registry or aligned with their lifestyle.

Is it rude to mention gifts on wedding invitations?

Yes. Traditional etiquette says couples should never mention gifts directly on the invitation.

What should you give for a second marriage?

Sentimental or experiential gifts—plants, wine, art, or services—are often more appropriate than household basics.

A carefully chosen present, whether practical, sentimental, or experiential, shows that you’re celebrating the couple’s future, not just checking a box on your to-do list. When you keep etiquette, lifestyle, and personal taste in mind, it’s hard to go wrong. What’s the most memorable wedding gift you’ve ever given or received—good or bad? 

Share your stories in the comments below and help inspire (or warn!) fellow wedding guests.