How to buy a wedding gift

You may be wondering what exactly are the rules for giving and receiving wedding gifts. Should you always register? Can you return wedding gifts you don’t like? There are a few guidelines you can follow.

Giving:

• Spend what you can afford but get the gift off of their registry rather than trying to find it somewhere else cheaper.

• It is best to go buy the gift as soon as you get the wedding invitation. This way you get to pick from all the gifts on the registry.

• If you choose to buy a wedding gift that is not on the registry then you should include a gift receipt and a note that simply states that you thought this would be a perfect fit for them and let them know it is okay to return it.

• It is more proper to send your gift to a pre-disclosed location than bring it to the wedding.

• You should buy a gift for the engagement party, bridal shower and the actual wedding.

Getting:

• You should always register for gifts. Registering for your wedding gifts makes it easier on your guests.

• If what you really want for a wedding gift is cash the best way to get the message out is to tell your close friends and let them spread the word when people ask. DO NOT put it on your invitation.

• If you receive a wedding gift before the wedding the rule of thumb is to send the thank you card within two weeks.  After the wedding you have about four weeks.

• Try and make the thank you notes a little personal.

• If you wish to return a gift then do so subtly and always write a thank you note for the original gift.