Gifts For Her
Wedding Gift Guide
BUYING JEWELRY FOR THE BRIDE
Your wedding day is one of the most important events in your life – and one that's marked by symbolic jewelry. For instance, as she walks down the aisle, your bride-to-be will be sporting the engagement ring you've given her to signify your commitment to marriage. And the wedding bands you place on one another's fingers will stand as a testament to your love, devotion and life together.
On this day to remember, the gift the groom gives to his wife should be memorable as well. Jewelry is the perfect gift. Not only can she wear it at the wedding, but she can wear it afterward, too, and it will last as a reminder of that special day for the rest of your lives.
There are many jewelry options to choose from; the only real keys are to go for something classic, rather than trendy (to extend its use beyond the wedding day), and that the piece complements her gown and/or other wedding accessories.
Certainly, diamonds are a good choice. Nothing symbolizes "forever" like a diamond. Some appropriate diamond jewelry gifts would include a diamond solitaire necklace, a pair of diamond stud earrings or a diamond tennis bracelet. All of these can be worn long after the ceremony is over, and the necklace and earrings in particular can be matched in shape and metal color to her engagement ring. Furthermore, hinged reversible earrings with diamond pavé on one side for evening and formal wear, and plain metal on the other side for daytime wear, will go well with her gown and can be worn afterward as well. A diamond heart necklace will capture the moment, too – it is the perfect romantic gift for your bride and one she's sure to cherish for years to come.
Cultured pearls are another common wedding gift. They are the traditional accessory of choice for brides because their white luster perfectly matches the wedding gown and mirrors its symbolic purity. A classic, 16-inch strand necklace will work with just about any neckline. Classic pearl earrings are another elegant accompaniment and work with either short or long hair – pinned up or worn down. Pearl bracelets (with a short sleeved gown) or pendants would be another good option.
Both platinum and white gold would be the perfect accessory to match her white gown. Either on their own or set with diamonds, these precious metals can be matched to pieces she's already wearing for the big day, or added as a novel, yet classic addition to her wedding ensemble. For fair skin, platinum is particularly compatible, according to fashion experts.
Other appropriate items for the bride include bejeweled hair accessories, such as fine jewelry combs, clips, barrettes, pins and other related pieces. These have become especially popular and can be worn again following the ceremony.
Finally, if you prefer to add a little hue to her wedding wardrobe, consider colored stones. A set of sapphire earrings, for example, would be perfect as "something blue."
BUYING JEWELRY FOR THE GROOM
When it comes to bridal jewelry, the spotlight is traditionally on the bride. But let's not forget the groom! Just as the groom's gift for the bride should be meaningful to help her remember the special day for the rest of her life, so too should the bride's gift for her groom be special. No other item can express the love, romance and devotion you feel for him than fine jewelry – the ultimate gift of love.
Some pointers are in order here. When shopping for your special guy, you obviously want something that isn't going to clash with his tuxedo. However, you want to make sure what you give him is something he'll be able to wear after the ceremony – so focus on classic styles rather than cutting-edge fashions that could change on a dime.
One ideal gift for your groom would be a stud and cufflink set to provide the finishing touch for his tuxedo. Stick with basics like gold or platinum.
For a little more pizzazz, go for tuxedo sets done in onyx or mother-of-pearl. You can also add some flashes of sparkle and color by getting him a tuxedo set with diamond or gemstone accents (masculine colors such as the deep blue of sapphire, as well as subtle earth tones like topaz or citrine, are particularly popular for men).
Another excellent, versatile gift would be a watch. This is a classic keepsake he'll be able to wear down the aisle and every day thereafter. When it comes to watches, many men like heft, technical gadgets and symmetric design. A better sports watch would be a well-appreciated gift. However, if you want a timepiece that will jazz up his look on the wedding day, and also be the perfect accompaniment to his business wardrobe, go for a classic business watch, dress watch or even a sophisticated pocket watch.
Bracelets have become increasingly popular for men. Simple link or herringbone type styles are the most common; however, men's jewelry has also seen a resurgence of the big, bold I.D. bracelet.
And let's not forget rings. More and more men are adorning themselves with non-wedding rings – and not just on their pinkies. Again, onyx and citrine are popular, along with jade, topaz, amber and other "masculine" stones. An increasing number of men also are sporting traditional precious gemstone rings with accents of color; more men also are wearing diamond rings. If you opt to buy your man a diamond ring, just make sure the center stone is smaller than the center diamond of your engagement ring so it doesn't detract from it.
Other classic accessories for the groom (and his groomsmen) include key chains, money clips, tie bars, tie tacks, pocket knives, business card holders and the like. The difference is, they tend to be made in sterling or base metal for the groomsmen, while they are usually produced in gold or even platinum for the groom.
Finally, to give your gift for him that extra special value, have it engraved with his name or initials, the date and a heartfelt message. This will make it even more personal and cherished and mark the moment for him.
Wedding Gift Guide
