Wedding gift ideas for stylish newlyweds
After back to back years of restricted guest lists, cancelled events and postponed celebrations, this summer we are ready to embrace the ‘big wedding’ with open arms. The tradition of getting a just-married couple a present for their new home might have dwindled over the past few decades, but we think a gift for the home is always appropriate, even if they've shared a home before. Within this guide, we've found ways to nod to that tradition without going down the hyper practical route. From wine glasses to candlesticks and aprons to a pestle and mortar (yes, a pestle and mortar. Who doesn’t need a pestle and mortar when setting up a new marital home?), we’ve got everything the newlyweds will need to start their new chapter in style.
What is the best wedding gift to give to a newlywed couple?
There’s no perfect recipe for the best wedding gift to give. Some great ones are keepsakes: silver photo frames, monogrammed sofa throws or crystal decanters, used infrequently and kept for use on other special occasions. Others are practical things that can be used time and time again after the big day: Le Creuset cast iron pans and casserole dishes, knife sets and coffee machines.
It’s also possible to find things that lie in the intersection of both practicality and style. Coasters, cheese boards and champagne flutes can all be found (in this guide no less!) in directional and design led styles.
Best wedding gift ideas 2024
Decorative vases and vessels
A beautiful vase is always an extra special wedding gift. In traditional Native American culture, a marriage vase is often given as a present. It is shaped with a handle that connects two spouts and a gap in the middle that shows the couples' circle of life. Various communities have their own spin on this vase, and vases in general have come to be known as typical wedding gifts. Etsy is a treasure trove for hand painted picks.
Candles, candlesticks and accessories
Buying beautiful, hand painted candles can certainly feel like an extravagance beyond most of our means–and that's what makes them excellent presents. The couple can keep them and light them on the wedding anniversary the following year, or save them for another special day. Pair them with a stylish set of candle holders for a gift set that makes a wonderful present.
The lighting of a candle is a common practice at many weddings, where the single flame signifies the coming together of two people to share a life. Any candle makes a perfect gift, but a specific bride's or wedding candle can be lit year after year, from their first anniversary onwards, making it a great wedding gift.
Classic wedding gifts
Sometimes, classic is best–and you can't go far wrong sticking with gifts that have been given at wedding ceremonies for generations. Think simple, every day goods with a thoughtful twist. Monogrammed pillowcases and napkins with special symbols (an ear of corn represents abundance and peace) will do the trick.
Barware and a bottle of something nice
Who doesn't enjoy receiving a bottle of wine at a celebration?! We'd pick a bottle from the year the couple met, or from the year of their wedding day, to make it a little more thoughtful than simply a bottle of something delicious.
Glassware
Beautiful glassware, whether in the form of wine glasses, tumblers or coupés, nearly always appears in wedding gift guides for good reason. It's often a little expensive and always makes a lovely gift. It’s part wedding gift, part housewarming gift–what’s not to love?
Art for newlyweds
Why not kick start the married couple's art collection with a print or original piece from an artist they love? Posters, prints and originals can all be found a various prices, so this needn't be a huge investment and they are sure to appreciate your pick.
Cookware
Some of the best gifts you can give are gadgets and gizmos for a new home. You’ll likely find some cookware on the happy couple’s wedding registry, but if not, we recommend looking for something they can use everyday. A coffee machine, or toaster, will be more useful than a charcuterie board (handsome though that may be). For stylish picks, we’d opt for something by Hay, KitchenAid or Smeg. All of them make really handsome kitchen appliances that make unique wedding gift ideas.
Tableware
Tableware, from coasters and cake stands to tablecloths and napkins, always makes a lovely gift. If you haven't found quite the right present here, head to our guides on all things tableware. We have napkins, tablecloths, cutlery sets, plate sets and more.
Stylish objets
Sometimes a sweet trinket or stylish object is the best way to go, especially when you might not know much about the couple's taste in interiors.
Desk accessories
Everyone needs some stylish desk accessories and stationery companions, so why not become their favourite wedding guest with these lovely picks?