Have you ever hopped on to someone’s wedding registry only to realize that just about every gift item is gone? Or there are a few stray items but you really don’t want to buy 2 spatulas and a tea cup and maybe another thing or two just to hit your spending goal? Yeah, I’ve been there before. And if you’re not feeling creative and just want to give them something without thinking too hard about it, you probably write a check. A check is always a safe idea.

But if you know the bride or groom well, you might want to gift them something really special. Something that maybe nobody else has thought of, right? Because doing something creative and meaningful is FUN!

General etiquette says you have up to a year after a wedding to buy a wedding gift. So you have plenty of time to scheme! I have four ideas for you that would also work as 1 year Anniversary Gifts if you’re already trying to think of that perfect gift for Him or Her… (or Them!;)

Traditionally, the One Year Gift is Paper… Eric and I purchased our first piece of art in Santa Fe and it’s my favorite purchase in the world :)

All of these below gifts are paper items (or items that hold paper) that would serve your husband or wife well for a lovely anniversary gift. Or you might win friend or sibling of the year award for thinking of these first ;)

Buy a frame:

Personally, picture frames are some of my favorite decor items we have in our house. Kate Spade makes some of my favorite frames. Maybe it’s my love for photography or highlighting special moments, but I love having great displays of family and friendship around my home. Where’s a better place to store a photo from your favorite day? If this is a wedding gift, it will be a gift remembered.

Frame the Vows:

Eric and I didn’t write our own vows but I loved what our Minister shared. If only I had saved them! If you are approaching a special wedding, maybe find a way to snag a written copy of the vows. Getting them framed and sent to the Bride & Groom would be such a special gift!

Create a Collage:

I’m the girl people usually refer to when they are in need of pictures. I have zillions of pictures and albums and many more on my computer. With Facebook, it’s easier than ever to snag some photos from friends albums to include in a collage. You can wait until after the wedding to use wedding photos or collect some favorites from their years together to throw in a collage and pretty frame! It’s such a cool (and very thoughtful) gift.

Have the Dress Sketched:

Want to win Hubby of the Year Award? Look no further. Many brides put tons of effort into finding the perfect dress for their special day so why not have it sketched and framed for them? Someday I plan on doing it for myself. It’s such a beautiful piece of art to have at home and token from a very important day :)

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