Choosing a wedding present is a balancing act between what the couple wants, what you can afford and what will not end up gathering dust. The simplest place to start is the gift list or registry: if there is one, it is usually the safest choice.
If there is no list, or you would like to give something extra, the ideas below cover the couple, the bridesmaids, the best man and groomsmen, and the youngest members of the wedding party. Each has a price band and a tip to make choosing easier.
The “See it in our shop” buttons lead to our own gift shop: prices in pounds, UK delivery included.
Our three favourites
For the happy couple
Practical and pretty gifts that suit a new home together.
For the couple setting up homeA set of luxury bath towels
Good towels are always useful and often overlooked on gift lists. Choose a neutral shade such as white or grey, which fits any bathroom, and check the weight and care label.
Typical UK price £50–£100
For the couple who like to entertainA cheese board and knife set
A solid wooden board with matching knives is an easy way to make a hosting evening feel special. Choose a size that works for two people and for a small group.
Typical UK price £25–£50
For the sentimental pairA personalised wedding date print
A print with their names and wedding date is a keepsake they can display in their new home. Check the names and date twice before ordering, and consider choosing a frame.
Typical UK price £10–£25
For the first toast at homeA pair of engraved champagne flutes
A pair of glasses with the date or their initials will see many anniversaries. Check the engraving details with the seller, and whether they are dishwasher safe.
Typical UK price £25–£50
For the bridesmaids
A thank-you that they might actually wear or use again.
For getting ready on the morningA personalised satin robe
A satin robe with a name on the back looks lovely in the photographs and stays useful long after the wedding. Collect sizes in good time and order early.
Typical UK price £25–£50
For the practical bridesmaidA personalised make-up bag
A neat bag with her initials can be packed with small treats such as lip balm and a mini candle. Check the size and the quality of the zip.
Typical UK price £10–£25
For the jewellery-wearerA trinket dish
A small ceramic dish for rings and earrings is a simple, pretty keepsake. Pick a design in a neutral colour, and consider adding a short message on a card.
Typical UK price Under £10
For the best man and groomsmen
Keepsakes that say thank you for standing next to him.
For the best manA personalised hip flask
A stainless steel flask with his initials and the wedding date is a classic thank-you. Check the capacity, and make sure it has a screw-on cap that seals properly.
Typical UK price £10–£25
For the smart groomsmanA pair of cufflinks
Cufflinks are a traditional gift for the wedding party. Choose a simple design in a neutral metal, and check that he wears shirts that need them.
Typical UK price £25–£50
For the well-travelled friendA personalised leather luggage tag
A small tag with his name and the date is useful for years of trips. Check the strap is firm, and consider including a handwritten thank-you.
Typical UK price Under £10
For page boys and flower girls
Small keepsakes for the youngest members of the wedding party.
For the young storytellerA personalised storybook
A book with the child’s name in the story makes them feel important on the day. Check the age range, and allow time for printing and delivery.
Typical UK price £10–£25
For the smallest guestsA soft toy teddy bear
A cuddly bear is a lovely keepsake from a big day. Look for the UKCA or CE mark and the age guidance on the label, particularly for children under three.
Typical UK price Under £10
Good to know
Cash and honeymoon funds
In the UK it is widely accepted to give money or contribute to a honeymoon fund, particularly if the couple already live together. Check the invitation for any preferences.
Gifts for children
For children’s toys, look for the UKCA or CE mark and follow the age guidance on the packaging.
FAQ: questions people ask
How much should I spend on a wedding gift?
There is no set figure. People usually think about their closeness to the couple, their own budget and the cost of attending. Close family tend to spend more, while friends and colleagues spend less. A thoughtful gift within your means is always appreciated.
Is it acceptable to give money as a wedding gift?
Yes. In the UK it is common, especially if the couple already have a home. Many couples set up a honeymoon fund or give details on their invitation. Present the money in a nice card with a warm message.
What if there is no gift list?
Choose something practical and neutral, such as good towels, a cheese board, glasses or a framed print. Include a gift receipt, and avoid anything too specific to your own taste, since the couple may already have a lot of items.
Do I have to buy a gift if I cannot attend?
It is kind to send a card and, if you can, a small gift. Wedding etiquette does not require one, but the couple will appreciate the thought. A card with a personal message is a good minimum.
What do bridesmaids and groomsmen usually get?
Couples often give a thank-you gift that is useful on the day, such as a robe, a make-up bag, cufflinks or a hip flask. Many choose something personalised, and hand it over at the rehearsal or the morning of the wedding.
