Summer is the season of love, even if it’s not your own! Wedding and bridal showers are being held in abundance and most likely you are going to be a guest at more than one. Gift giving can be a daunting task on any occasion but especially for weddings and bridal showers as you are marking a serious milestone in the bride’s (and groom’s) life. We have some great recommendations for unique gifts that are sure to be a big hit with the bride. And, let’s face it; she’s the one that counts!

The best rule of thumb for wedding gifts is STICK TO THE REGISTRY. The bride (and maybe the groom too) spent a lot of time selecting those items so why risk leaving them disappointed just because you want to be original? However, I have been in situations where the registry was either completely picked over and therefore void of anything I’d deem appropriate for a gift or too small to find something in the amount I wanted to spend. In these instances, and these only, it is appropriate to go off the list and choose your own gift. To assist you we found some options that would be universally welcomed into any new marriage (the corresponding images are above):

1. La Plates – Customized Plates: $22 each – Buy them eight of these small plates in various patterns and colors with their new shared initial to make a cool set of dessert plates.

2. Jonathan Adler Backgammon Set: $295 – The perfect game for two, this trendy set will also look good on display in their new home.

3. Bone Rod Pattern Ice Bucket: $145 – New couples always need entertaining accessories and this exotic bucket would make a great showpiece at their parties.

4. Crystal Hurricane: $173 – Two of these crystal hurricanes would cast a gorgeous glow displayed on a mantle, dining table or sofa table.

5. Cracked Ice Tray by Home: $165 – This piece looks like it was plucked right out of a royal palace. What better way to make the new couple feel all grown up than with some fabulously fancy accoutrements?

6. Calvin Klein Solar Bowls: $100 – $200 – Filled with fruit or simply left to stand alone, these modern bowls are a designer’s dream, as they can go with almost any aesthetic.

7. Susani Melamine Platter: $65 – An ethnic printed platter makes a great centerpiece at a dinner party.

Lingerie is the traditional gift given at bridal showers – but I find it somewhat ridiculous to buy someone something so personal. Instead, give her something pretty yet unexpected that she would not otherwise buy for herself. The one thing most brides do right after their wedding is travel on a honeymoon. Luxurious travel accessories are the prefect way to make her feel like a princess, even after the big day has passed.  Here are some of our favorites that any bride would love:

1. Aspinal Classic USA Travel Collection (Includes two luggage tags, a passport cover featuring the United States of America crest, and the classic travel wallet.): $160 2. Lapin Vilardi – St Germain Luxe Lingerie Bag: $55 3. Lapin Vilardi – The Zoe Report Travel Set  (Includes Jewelry Roll, Laundry Bag, and Bikini Bag): $115 4. Aspinal of London Travel Jewelry Box: $175

We hope this helps you survive the summer wedding season. Any of these recommendations will most certainly make you a popular guest!

xoxo Melina