Wedding gifts in general can sometimes be tough, but wedding gifts for your best friends can often be even more difficult if you identify differently than they do. As of very recently, more and more couples are finally able to proudly host their weddings, solidifying their lifelong commitment of love to each other, but unfortunately many department stores have yet to catch up to this modern evolution in our culture. Even so, there are always out of the box methods and procedures you can follow when it comes to figuring out the perfect wedding gifts for your best friends, gay straight, lesbian, transgender, or otherwise, on the happiest days of their love lives. Here are the 7 best wedding gifts to buy your beloved best friends.
1. Art
This can end up being a pricey choice, but when your best friend in the whole wide world is tying the knot, it really isn’t the time to be frugal. If you can afford it, purchasing a unique modern art sculpture or vase from your local art dealer can be a great investment and one your best friend will be forever grateful for. Of course a no-brainer would be a think about your best friend’s interests and make a purchase related to that, if he or she loves floral water color paintings consider looking for something like that, and newlyweds will definitely appreciate it in their new home.
2. Housewares
As most people realize when it comes to newlyweds, things may get chaotic and stressful within the first few months for your best friend in their new abode. Consider helping them out and buying some great silverware, china or even just useful household items you know they will appreciate. Aside from an artistic piece, this purchase would be one that’s more utilitarian, like monogrammed towels in their favorite colors or even some new furniture if you feel like splurging.
3. Travel Items
Something that is almost always included in all wedding registries is products that can be used on the go. Ironing tools are very common in this group believe it or not. If your best friend has job that requires him or her to travel and stay in hotel rooms regularly, an easy to use travel steam iron may be the best investment you can make for them. Another great idea in this category are portable shaving kits or toiletries. Since this is a wedding gift, considering searching through a few luxury name brands for a sterling silver one or even a leather toiletry bag that’s meant for his and hers honeymooners.
4. Weekend Getaways
I’m not advising you to buy your best friend their entire honeymoon vacation as a gift, but investing in a weekend in the Hamptons is always a surefire way to gain applause for a great wedding gift. Be sure to research hotels and vacations spots before you decide on an option if you choose to go with this gift. Also make sure you purchase all aspects of the vacation. It’s a bit tacky if you buy 2 nights in the Hamptons but fail to provide a method of transportation to get there. If you’re on a budget, maybe consider asking another mutual friend to contribute to this wedding gift make it as memorable and gift-worthy as possible.
5. Attire for Fancy Occasions
Although you’ll be a day late on buying a name brand tuxedo or dress, a worthy investment for a gift your best friend’s wedding is a fancy piece of clothing they can wear and treasure for years to come. Be cautious of brands and fabrics, though: do not opt to be frugal and buy from a discount store. If you're on a tight budget, you should search for a cheaper overall gift purchase.
6. Wine
If you and your best friend have had some great nights out on the town together, I’m sure you know their favorite drink... or even better, their number one choice of wine! A great way to celebrate with a romantic touch is buying a case of wine for your best friend so that their new cellar will already be stocked up. And if he or she doesn’t drink wine, consider a beautifully aged brandy or scotch to keep it classy.
7. Homemade Collage of Personal Photos
If this is your best friend, chances are you’ve known him or her for a significant amount of time and you’ve accumulated a lifetime of memories together in photos. So on their special day, a gift from the heart may be just the right thing. Don’t forget to add those goofy prom photos you swore you’d never show anyone, and that time you built a fort in your mom’s living room. Be sure to use sturdy cardboard and photo-safe glue, consider getting it framed, and definitely have fun with it.
Although these are the best wedding gifts for your best friends, a great way to make sure you get exactly what your best friend wants is to check if they have a registry. Enjoy the wedding and don’t forget to dance and wish the bride and groom (or bride and bride, or groom and groom!) well as they embark on their lifelong journey of love together; after all this is your best friend getting married here! Til then, let me know if you find some of these suggestions on the registry... my instinct tells me you probably will!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some popular wedding gifts for best friends?
- Oh, there are so many cool ideas! Personalized items like custom art or engraved jewelry are always a hit. And you can't go wrong with thoughtful experiences like a couples' spa day or a cooking class. Just think about what will make them smile.
- Should I go for a funny or serious gift?
- Totally depends on your friend's personality! If they love a good laugh, a funny gift can be super memorable. But if they're more sentimental, something heartfelt would mean the world to them. Know your audience, right?
- Is it okay to give a cash gift to a best friend at their wedding?
- Absolutely! Cash can be really practical, especially if your friend is starting a new life chapter. Just make sure to present it in a nice card or a unique way, so it still feels special!
- How much should I spend on a wedding gift for my best friend?
- There's no set rule, really. It's all about what feels right for you and what you can afford. The thought and effort behind the gift is what counts the most. So, don't stress about the price tag too much.
- Can you go in on a gift with other friends?
- Yes! Pooling money with other friends can get you a really awesome gift that might be out of reach on your own. Plus, it's a fun way to collaborate and show your friend how much they mean to all of you.