It is often tradition that the marrying couple exchange gifts on their wedding day. While some couples buck this tradition citing “My presence is his present”, other couples want to give that extra something special on their wedding day to let their partner know they’re thinking about them. So what should you gift each other on your wedding day?

When should you exchange gifts?

A great way to exchange gifts is to arrange a bridesmaid or groomsman to pass the gift on to open while everyone gets ready. This is assuming you’re getting ready in separate places, as most couples do.

If you’re having a ‘first look’ perhaps you can exchange your gifts during those few moments alone before your ceremony.

Some couples wait until after their wedding to give their gifts, as it can be incredibly romantic to exchange them when you’re finally alone as a married couple.

And, if like some couples you’re planning on giving something during your honeymoon, you might want to make sure your partner knows you haven’t forgotten about them!

Types of gifts

Sentimental

If your style is more sentimental than materialistic (and if you are materialistic, that’s okay too!) you can exchange incredibly thoughtful and timeless gifts on your wedding day. For instance, you might frame an old or significant photograph of the pair of you, or gift something that might mean a lot to you and your family – such as a grandparent’s wedding ring or cherished item.

Jewellery or accessories to wear on the day

More commonly, marrying couples will exchange gifts of jewellery or accessories to wear on the day. This might mean a bracelet or a pair of earrings for brides, and cufflinks or a watch for grooms. While gifts of jewellery and accessories are typically worn on the actual wedding day, the beauty of them is that you now have a piece of jewellery that has incredible sentimental value, as it was given to you and worn for the first time on your wedding day.

Romantic

If exchanging actual gifts is not your thing, or perhaps you’re on a strict budget, it can be incredibly romantic to exchange love letters or poems on your wedding day. This idea is also great for wedding photos, as photographers often capture the raw emotion of when a bride/groom opens and reads their love letter. These letters or poems can be kept for a lifetime after the wedding, and can even be displayed on your wall for years to come!

Practical

If you’re more of a practical gift-giving type, you might want to gift your betrothed something they can use. For instance, couples going on a honeymoon directly after their wedding can gift one another sunglasses, or perhaps even an already-booked experience to use together on their holiday.

Be inspired by real newlyweds featured in our Real Weddings section!