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When your loved ones are getting married, the big question for you is, “what should I give to the happy couple?” Wishing wells may have taken over as the latest wedding craze, but many people still want to give a real and practical gift that the bride and groom will cherish for years to come. If you are stuck for ideas, here are a couple of tried and tested gifts that are sure to be well received.

High-Quality Pots and Pans

Even couples that have lived together for some time frequently make do with a cupboard full of cheap, dented and mismatched pans collected over the years. If you survey your family and friends, you will find that a stunning cookware set is the most used wedding gift that they received. Yes, it is practical, but it never goes out of style and is always useful. A high-quality pan will bring joy to your friends every evening when they cook dinner and remind them of their happy celebration and the thoughtful person who gave it to them.

An Artwork

Some couples are choosing to register for coveted artworks with local galleries as a fun and modern alternative to a gift registry. Art is a lovely way to commemorate this special occasion, so if you know the couple well and they haven’t registered for a gift or an artwork, you might be able to choose something that you know they would love. Try having a sneaky look to see whether they follow any artists on Instagram. Also, take note of the style and color scheme they have at home as this will give you more clues as to what they would love.

An Experience

Giving the gift of an experience is in vogue at the moment, and for a good reason. It is the memory of shared time together that forms the fabric of any relationship, and you can help the newlyweds create more of these special memories. Whether it’s hot air ballooning, an expensive restaurant for their first date night, or tickets to see their favorite sporting team, there are a host of options to suit any couple. Stick to events or activities that you are confident they will enjoy – tickets to the opera might be one couple’s dream, but another couple’s worst nightmare.

A Personalized Chopping Board

Everyone loves a personalized present, and there are some lovely options available. One of my favorites is a beautiful big chopping board with a heat stamp reading ‘Mr. and Mrs. Jones. Est. 9 June 2015.’ It is practical, quirky, and thoughtful. They might choose to prop it up in the kitchen as countertop decor or use it to serve up a cheese platter for guests. Either way, it will always serve as a helpful reminder of when their wedding anniversary is coming up!

Stock Up Their Liquor Cabinet

If the couple getting married are wine lovers, then you can’t go wrong with a case of top-shelf wines. Likewise, if they enjoy a fine whiskey or a glass of scotch at the end of the day, this can be a thoughtful gift that is sure to be appreciated. Make sure you know their preferences if you are leaning towards this option. A good friend of mine has a yeast allergy and a cupboard full of French Champagne that she can’t drink!

Before you hit the shops, think about what you know about the bride and groom. Armed with these ideas, you should be able to find a gift that they will treasure as they start their married life together.