Wedding gifts with a difference

Carol O’Callaghan extols the gift list as the most sensible approach to present-giving in this, the nuptial season.

COLD and clinical it may seem, but the wedding gift register is an excellent idea. Everyone’s needs are met as the gift-giver avoids the hard slog of finding a suitable present, and the couple already co-habitimg, or with two well-equipped homes, will receive gifts they actually need or want.

For the bride and groom already in possession of every practical item they could need, a matching toaster and kettle finished in blue, when their new kitchen has accents of red, is guaranteed to be a disappointment.

Advice to gift-givers is this: buy the couple what they want; and to the couple concerned, don’t be afraid to create a gift list with a difference.

It isn’t necessary to register with one shop from which all gifts will originate. Create your own list detailing the most convenient places for the gift-givers to make the desired purchase whether it’s from a shop or online.

Start by taking a good look around your soon-to-be marital home and ask yourselves what is needed to finish everything off. Maybe there’s a lamp you covet, or perhaps you would like a twin for one you already have to sit either end of your hall console.

Think about art to enhance the home’s aesthetic, or crafted design to bring unusual but practical objects into your environment.

Art and design do not have to be expensive if you opt for works by emerging artists so check local dealers. The 2020 Gallery in Cork has a gift register with choices suitable for wedding guests and some for ‘afters’ attendees who prefer to spend less.

Art is subjective and can be difficult to get right when choosing for someone else, no matter how art-savvy the buyer. 2020 Gallery’s work starts at €75, while the Lavit in Cork has a large selection for under €250. It also has more expensive works, which they suggest would be perfect for a group present — clubbing together makes sense for a quality gift.

For something more practical but still beautiful, consider artsy style in your table wares. This may not normally be on your list of priorities but with others wanting to treat you, it’s a lovely indulgence. Luxury brand Villeroy and Boch’s Cera range in black or white has curving plates and nip-edged bowls to look as good on display as serving a practical purpose on the dining table (from €13 at Arnott’s).

For a touch of unrestrained Rococo-style opulence, try Wedgwood’s Renaissance Gold dining service (plates from €32 at Brown Thomas). Its mixture of gold and navy-blue in various patterns can be contrasted and matched and will work with plain white china.

Other gifts you may not have thought of could include extra wine glasses — you can never have enough. A cordless drill is invaluable, as are photo albums where the wedding pictures will actually be seen.

Consider a new barbecue, and to be ultra practical, a carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguisher and smoke alarms. Think about a selection of luggage for overnighters, weekends away or two weeks in the sun. And, of course, spring and summer are not only for weddings, there’s also for gardening, so a lawn mower might come in handy.

* Next week we’re achieving the spotless kitchen