Knives As Wedding Gifts
Gifts for the kitchen are traditional and often requested by the bride and groom, but not all kitchen gifts are the same. Knives have a long history of superstition that may not make them an appropriate gift for all couples. When in doubt, skip the knives -- but if you know the couple would appreciate a set, there are plenty of options.
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Superstition
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Knives, traditionally, are not given as wedding gifts because they are considered bad luck. This superstition has held on in many different cultures, although, of course, many modern couples don't concern themselves with superstition. If you're not sure how the wedding couple feels about receiving knives as a wedding gift, Karen Rheault of WedNet suggests looking at whether they included knives on their gift registry. The absence of a set of knives when many other kitchen items are listed may suggest that giving knives may be considered bad luck by the couple.
Cake Knife
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One type of knife that is often gifted to the couple, either as a shower or early wedding gift, is the cake cutter and server that will be used to ceremoniously cut the wedding cake at the reception. Wedding cake knives are usually silver, and can be engraved with the couple's names or monogram. For a renaissance or fairy tale-themed wedding, you can give the couple a cake knife that resembles a knight's dagger or small sword.
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Table Knives
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The dinner knives that come with the couple's silver place settings are nice, but a good set of steak knives is a necessity in most households -- though they may not be useful for couples that don't eat meat. Instead of giving the knives by themselves, make a steak-themed gift box or basket that includes grilling utensils, spice rubs and marinade mixes. Steak knives come in many styles, from classic stainless steel and wood to bright-colored contemporary knives.
Cooking Knives
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Kitchen knives are a useful gift for anyone who cooks, no matter the couple's diet. Superstition aside, high-quality kitchen knives are just the kind of item that many couples starting out don't have yet, and may not buy for themselves because they're expensive. Unlike expensive crystal, though, it's a gift that will be used often. If you're going to buy just one high quality knife, go for a chef's knife; for a set, add bread knife, utility knife and paring knife. Sets can be purchased together with a sharpening rod and a storage block.
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