Meaningful Bridal Shower Gifts
A bridal shower is one of the events leading up to the wedding and can be a fun way to get into the wedding spirit in a smaller, more personal setting. Although the event is traditionally attended only by the bride and her female friends, relatives and attendants, co-ed showers that include the groom or other couples are not unheard of. Although many guests will use a gift registry as a guide or inspiration, it's easy to choose a meaningful and appreciated gift without it. Your relationship to the bride, groom or their families, plus any knowledge you have of their interests, activities or goals can help you find the perfect gift. Meaningful and creative shower gifts will be appreciated and cherished for years to come.
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Think Theme
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Gifts centering around a theme, interest or favorite activity can brim with creativity. Ideas include:
New rubber boots, a watering can or a flower pot can be filled with gardening or canning supplies.
A cooler, plastic plates and utensils, a flashlight, bug repellant and foam can coolers make a great gift for campers, picnickers or those who enjoy tailgating at sporting events.
A gym bag with his n' hers yoga mats, water bottles, towels and an exercise DVD will be appreciated by fitness buffs. Including a trial membership to a local gym would be a thoughtful touch if you know the couple doesn't already belong to one.
A stock pot with spices, dried herbs, kitchen utensils and a cookbook may assure you of a future dinner invitation.
A plastic bucket with painter's dropcloths, measuring tape, handtools and duct tape might be perfect for a couple moving into their first home.
Think Meaningful Experience
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If the idea of more things to take care of, wash and maintain isn't likely to appeal to the recipients, or if their household is well established, consider experiences over things. For example:
Performing arts or sports tickets
Museum membership
Classes -- such as cooking, photography or dancing
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Think Posterity
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At the shower, pass out 3-by-5 index cards and ask everyone to write down her best marriage advice -- humorous or serious or anything in between. Gather the cards and put them into the sleeves of a photo album. If there are sleeves left, fill them with photos from the shower and give the album to the bride afterward. It will be a lovely reminder of the day and everyone who was there.
Other things that can be collected in advance from other attendees or family members include recipes or a favorite memory or anecdote of the bride. These can also be collected in a binder or scrapbook.
Think DIY
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Unique handmade gifts can include a wedding scrapbook, a personalized photo calendar or handmade stationery. If you have a valuable skill -- like photography, web design, baking, car repair or organizing -- consider offering your time and talent as a gift.
Think Practical
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Although not glamorous, gifts that protect the newlyweds' home and assets can have a lasting impact, such as a fire extinguisher, a savings bond or a session with a personal financial planner.
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References
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