My friend is having a low-key wedding on short notice. No bridesmaids, no showers, no bachelorette, and no registry. It feels wrong to show up emptyhanded; what does one bring to a sort of shotgun wedding? — J.M.
From gifting expert Mari Uyehara:
One of the best weddings I ever attended was a DIY-er in Finland. We picked wildflowers for the centerpieces, ate a home-cooked meal at mismatching tables, and danced until dawn while friends DJed in a barn.
Since your friend seems to value camaraderie over the wedding industrial complex, ask to pitch in if you can. Offer to pay for a delivery to help stock the bar, order Costco wedding garlands or their famous sheet cake, or dole out instant cameras and film packs to other guests for candid snaps.
If that’s not feasible, then look to modest whimsy over space-hogging registry standards. For goofier types, you could make Funko Pops in the likeness of the couple, or have them illustrated and framed in their favorite cartoon. On the more buttoned-up end, you could get them a custom house portrait, personalized Champagne minis to pop open on anniversaries, or make an album of them with crowdsourced photos.
As for dressing up cash, I love these exquisite pop-up cards (like the rose and fuchsia designs). Don’t sweat it too much. What may be most vital is just showing up in a good-time outfit with immaculate vibes.
Need Help Finding The Perfect Gift? Ask Our Experts.
Our present-hunters are here to answer your questions. By completing this form, you agree that we may add your address to our list for the newsletter The Gift.
