Gift-Giving Etiquette and How to Receive Gifts Graciously
by Dina Vieira, A&H - APHRODITE & HERA

You are engaged, and have started planning a wedding. Like most brides-to-be, you are probably beginning to realize that there are so many details in planning a wedding. The toughest part for some is the gift-giving details, because there are a lot of people on your list to graciously extend gratitude for everything they will be doing for you during the planning of the bridal shower and wedding stages. We have detailed some gift-giving outlines below.

Bombonieres, Shower & Wedding Favours, and Accessories
It is common practice in many cultures to thank guests for attending the shower and wedding. A gift keepsake (bomboniere or favour) is usually handed out to the women who attend the shower and the wedding, and should reflect your sense of style, individuality, and gratitude. A common approach is to pick gift keepsakes that are modern, that fit in to current décor schemes, which are practical and functional. Accessories should not be overlooked, as these are extra touches that add flair to your event, which guests may also take home. Examples include bubbles, wedding bells for requesting a kiss from the new Mr. & Mrs., and place card settings to help guide guests to their tables.

The Attendants
Whether you have an enormous bridal party consisting of Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Matron of Honour, Best Men, Ring Bearer(s), and Flower Girl(s), or an intimate group consisting of only a Matron of Honour and Best Man, you should reward and thank these people for contributing to the success of your day. Try to take each individual's personality and preferences into account when selecting their gift to truly make it special. Many brides-to-be may compensate for a "gift" by buying part or all of the attire, or the jewellery, the bridesmaids and matron of honour will be wearing on the wedding day. Whichever route you choose; try to make the presentation of the gift unique and memorable by paying attention to the wrapping detail.

The Parents
Parents play an important role in the planning and execution of a wedding. Whether they do or do not help pay for your "big day", it is always a nice gesture to thank these folks for giving you life! A popular gift idea is a memento box containing artifacts from your life and framed in a beautiful wooden finish. Many couples opt to give this type of gift after the wedding, so they can include wedding pictures, and other accessories from the wedding day.

How to Receive Gifts Graciously
Let's face it. You will receive gifts from the time of engagement through to, and including the wedding day. Some form of gifts may be monetary, however, if you chose to sign up with a bridal registry (ies), it is common courtesy to keep a tab of who gives you what. Many bridal accessories such as the Guest Book, or the Memory Book contain pages to keep such a list. Don't forget to accept ALL gifts graciously. You can then refer to your list to send Thank You cards, or Special Stationary with a personal note thanking the person, for the specific item they gave you.

Remember, graciousness is a combination of manners and compassion.