Weddings are a time of celebration and joy, but the wedding itself is not just for the intended couple, it also is for the friends and family as well. In response to the invitation to the wedding and ensuing gala, it has become the tradition to give the newly married couple a gift to help them on the way to their new life together. The best wedding gifts of 2013 will help give you some great gift-giving inspiration.
Nesting bowls. A set of nesting bowls in a microwave- and dishwasher-friendly material like tempered glass is a great wedding gift. At a reasonable price, these bowls nest for easy storage and look great when preparing and serving a dish. Easy dishwasher cleanup is a must.
Stand mixer. There are so many great mixers to choose from. The KitchenAid is one of the very best in the category. It is sturdy, built to last and can make everything from whipped cream and fluffy egg whites to a stiff cookie dough.
Wine accessories. Many couples love wine, and if they don’t, they will serve it to guests. A good corkscrew can make short work of opening tough wine bottles. There are wonderful electric corkscrews, and the traditional sommelier’s corkscrew is the classic, elegant favorite. A foil cutter, wine bottle spout and wineglasses are great accompaniments.
Thermal carafe. According to The Knot, the thermal carafe is a modern and elegant way to serve coffee or tea. Bringing a kettle or ugly glass coffee pot to the table is not an attractive way to serve guests, and you have to pop it up and down to refresh cups. A carafe can sit on the table and keep the beverage warm and fresh instead of scalding and burnt—or worse, cold.
Spa-quality towels. When gift giving, the best wedding gifts are things that the couple might not buy for themselves. Spa-quality towels in white or the couple’s color preference can be an indulgent luxury that transports a spa-like tranquility and offers a little extra pampering.
Enameled cast-iron. There are no cooks these days, only chefs. Give a gift that speaks to the inner foodie in the bride and groom. A quality enameled cast-iron grill pan or Dutch oven are a must have in a well-stocked kitchen.
Money. There is no gift that is better appreciated than cash. It can be saved for the future, invested, used to pay the mounting wedding cost or enjoyed on the honeymoon. When in doubt, think cash and don’t give less than $50, according to The Knot.
