Counting your gift thoughts

After reading a lovely wedding invitation, the next thought that occupies most guests’ minds (apart from what to wear!), is naturally, where to find a gift and how much to spend on it. There is no hard and fast rule on how much to spend on a gift but you should only give what you can afford. Sometimes a sentimental or heirloom gift may be of greater value to the bride and groom than a purchased present. It all depends on the couple’s needs and style. You can enquire from the couple if there’s is a gift list at a bridal registry. However, while registries are gaining in popularity in TT, it is not acceptable for the couple to include them in wedding invitations or drop hints about them. It is okay for guests to ask if a gift list exist. Some guests also balk at the idea of buying something from the registry, because the couple will know exactly how much they’ve spent or because they feel it eliminates the element of surprise. However, as a guest you are not obligated to purchase from a registry.

You can also choose a gift you think they would appreciate or give a monetary gift. If you’re giving money, you should enclose the cash or cheque in an envelope, within a gift card, to prevent it from being misplaced. Some guests feel awkward about giving money, particularly if they don’t know the couple well enough or because they can’t gauge how much to give. In this instance, why not give a gift certificate instead? As a guest, whether attending the wedding or not, proper etiquette indicates that you should send a gift, since the couple has considered you enough to invite you to share their special day. It is also proper etiquette to purchase a gift for the couple, even though you may have attended the bridal shower or bachelor party.  Typically, gifts should be sent prior to the wedding, or if this is not possible, at least within one year after the wedding has taken place. On the flip-side, if a wedding is called off, the couple must notify guests by calling or sending a card, and returning all bridal shower and wedding gifts that have been sent.

Check www.trinidadweddings.com or call Simone at 788-7273 for more wedding tips.