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Faizan
Gift giving is fun way to give your loved ones a tangible memento of a special occasion or to show how much you care. However, this pleasant experience may turn challenging when you don't know if you are supposed to give a gift as part of the celebration, such as at an engagement party.
Facts
If you wish to give the couple a gift in celebration of their engagement, your generosity is sure to be appreciated. However, an engagement gift is not usually expected or traditional for the event, according to the wedding planning website Wed Net. Engagement gifts, if they are given, are usually presented to the bride by her family and close friends. Also, instead of being given at an engagement party, it is usually mailed to the bride's house or her parent's house. Some cultures or families could consider gift-giving for an engagement traditional practice; engagement party hosts might be able to alleviate any potential confusion by telling guests on the invitation that gifts are or are not expected or necessary.
Gift Ideas
Should you decide to give an engagement gift, consider asking the bride's mother if the couple has registered yet. If not, consider buying the couple a small gift for their new home. The wedding planning website The Knot suggests that small decor items such as candlesticks, vases and picture frames may be welcome gifts, and recommends waiting until a bridal shower to give household appliances. A bottle of wine or champagne or bouquet of flowers can also be given as a simple last-minute gift.
Considerations
The announcement of an engagement and upcoming wedding will give friends and family many options to give a gift to the bride, groom or couple to celebrate their marriage. Since engagement gifts aren't usually expected for an engagement, consider saving your money and putting it toward a larger gift for the bridal shower or wedding.
Warning
Deciding to present the bride or couple with an gift at an engagement party might result in some uncomfortable situations between those who brought a gift and those who came empty-handed. Ask the host before arriving if engagement gifts are expected. If guests do bring a gift, the couple can avoid having other guests feel awkward by waiting until after the engagement party to open the presents.
Posted in: Engagements
