The best gifts to give (or receive)

Whether you’re the bride or groom and you’re building a wedding registry, or you’ve simply got a lot of weddings to attend in the coming months, most likely you’ve got to start thinking about the gift. It isn’t easy to choose the right one. The gift is a reflection of your relationship to the married couple and if you choose something thoughtful, it can truly leave a lasting impression. There are two schools of thought–those who want to favour something practical (think air fryers, kitchen utensils or home linen) and those who veer towards something more sentimental; a box of their favourite chocolates, a precious décor item to bless a new home, a scent that reminds you of their wedding. Whether you’re in the first or the second category, it doesn’t hurt to get some more inspiration, so we’ve shortlisted a few of the gift specialists at The Wedding Collective. Just remember, at the end of the day, it’s the thought that counts beyond the actual gift itself.

For Avinash Gupta, founder of Argentum Arts, a specialist in silver artworks, an objet d’art made of the precious metal is a no-brainer. “Silver has a very long history as a gift item,” says Gupta. The designs by the Hyderabad-based studio go much beyond a simple embossed coin, their offerings range from puja items—say a diya, bell, or thali—to art deco-style storage devices, trays, photo frames, or wine glasses. “Our bestsellers would definitely be the candlestands or the wooden clocks that come clad in silver,” says Gupta. “When my own daughter got married in 2020, I chose cake platters as giveaways for our guests.”

Cake stands are also a bestseller at Faaya Gifting, along with their decorative cutwork boxes that are perfect for storing your trinkets, office supplies and potpourri. Founder Falguni Jhaveri says, “Practical, everyday gifts are preferred today. That’s a big change in the last few years. That way people will remember you or the wonderful time they had at your wedding whenever they pick up the item.” The brand’s hosting essentials include cheese boards, salad bowls and leather-finished barware all of which they design uniquely for every wedding.

Home décor is a foolproof option when it comes to gifting for a couple who are just setting up a new home. Delhi-based Janavi India is known for their exquisitely soft cashmere shawls and stoles, but the brand also offers a range of equally comforting blankets and cushion covers that will make nap time extra dreamy. Artisanal perfumer Naso Profumi specialises in custom scents—think a fragrance created to evoke your wedding theme or a spritz for your partner that’s created just for him or her. They’ve also extended their expertise to candles, incense sticks and skincare; a combination of these will make for the perfect gift box. 

For those seeking something a little sweeter, Ether Atelier’s chocolate bars, confections and macarons are a delightful sugary surprise. Choose their customised gift boxes and fill them up with a portion of each so that the bride and groom can continue the celebrations even after the guests have gone to bed.