Wedding Gift Tips - the best and worst!

You'd imagine that buying the perfect gift for a wedding would be easy. Couples register for a range of items they want, and tell you exactly where to get it! But talk to couples a few years after the nuptials, and they're likely to say that the best gifts they got didn't come from their registry - they were sentimental favourites that remind them of the gift-giver each time they see it. Let's take a quick look at the good, the bad and the ugly options for gifts.

The Good
The key to a great gift is keeping it practical! Many couples regret not registering for a vacuum cleaner, and is definitely a practical and needed item.

If the couple are fresh out of school and just starting their lives together and building up their household items, it's a great idea to get them something for their new home. What about getting them a specialty item, such as poultry shears, or a tool to help them open stubborn jars and containers.

Keep the couples' interests in mind, maybe they are avid bikers? Or love to hike? Try getting them a hiking or biking book with maps in the area, consider the items you need when you are out in the wilderness (maybe some water bottles that are easy to carry or a new backpack), or if you have a bigger budget, even a new bike.

The Bad
Going off registry can be risky as well, and really depends on how well you know the couple and how open they are. So please consider the couple before venturing into some new and crazy gift idea.

Keep in mind the dietary preferences of the couple - a vegetarian couple just won't enjoy a professional meat slicer.

The (Potentially) Ugly
Making the gift personal is a great idea, however be sure to also keep it tasteful.

For a winter wedding, consider getting them some Christmas ornaments to commemorate their special occasion (and the season). The couple will enjoy placing this gently on their tree each year.

Making up a cookbook of your favourite recipes, or even some family secrets can be a great sentimental gift if you are a part of the same family, or your families are very close!

Again, if you are going off of the registry, be sure you know the couple well enough that the perfect gift isn't guesswork. If you have to ask a friend what you think the couple would like, stick to the registry!