With This Present …Gifts for Bride and Groom to Each Other

You’ve registered together for wedding gifts, but, if you’re like most brides and grooms, you’ll want to give each other something special to celebrate your wedding day.

Though you’ll each want your gift to be a surprise, it’s a good idea to discuss the matter beforehand so both of you at least have an idea of how much to spend. You don’t want to start your marriage by breaking your new household budget. On the other hand, you don’t want to get your new husband a pair of golf socks while he’s buying you the diamond-encrusted Gucci watch you’ve drooled over for the past three years. (OK, stop saying, “Why not?” We know you’re joking!)

Grooms, if she’s a jewelry girl, you might consult her maid of honor for help when you’re searching for the perfect pearl earrings or diamond studs. (Just be certain that her ears are pierced; otherwise go for a necklace or bracelet.) If jewelry isn’t her thing, you might consider a special designer bag or piece of clothing, or even a laptop, BlackBerry or iPhone.

Brides, all kinds of electronics are popular with grooms — maybe even a television that you could enjoy together. If he’s into sports, consider a new golf club, a football jacket, or even a pair of prime tickets to his favorite sports event. Just as he might need some advice with picking a gift for you, ask his best man to give you some pointers.

If you want to do something that is a one-of-a-kind, very personal gift with special meaning (and promise), check with your photographer about taking a picture of you just for your husband-to-be. Our photographers tell us boudoir photography is particularly hot right now. Plan a photo session for a pinup or vintage shot, tuck it into a card for an usher to deliver to your groom right before the wedding, and watch for that extra little twinkle in his eye as you walk down the aisle. ~MJ