Gift IdeasWedding gift ideas
At Indian weddings the most common gift is money in an envelope, called shagun, and it is the most useful for a couple setting up a home. Close family often give jewellery, clothes or household goods as well.
A set of bath towels
Thick, plain and in pairs.
A tea or coffee set
For a home that loves guests.
A wall clock or table lamp
Simple designs suit more homes. Note that some people consider a clock an unlucky gift.
Money in an envelope (shagun)
Welcome on almost every family occasion, and the giver never has to guess a size or a taste. By custom the amount ends in one.
A gift card for a shop they use
Less personal, never wasted. Good when you live far away.
A cooking spice box filled with fresh spices
A masala dabba for a new kitchen.
A set of storage jars
A new kitchen never has enough.
A saree, suit piece or dupatta
If you do not know her taste, choose a classic colour and a fabric she already wears.
A wrist watch
A classic gift for a milestone: a first job, a wedding, a retirement.
A silver coin
A traditional token of good fortune at Diwali, weddings and the birth of a child.
A good pressure cooker, mixer or non-stick pan
Only if they have said they need one. Then buy the best you can.
A dinner set or a set of glasses
Plain white or clear glass fits any home.
Bed linen in plain colours
Check the bed size. Good cotton in a quiet colour is always used.
A brass or silver item for the puja room
A diya, a bell or a small plate. Only when you know the family's faith and practice.
A contribution to their honeymoon or new home
Ask a family member how the couple would like to receive it.
A piece of gold or silver jewellery
Small and classic, such as earrings, a chain or a ring, is worn more often than large and elaborate.
A weekend trip
Choose a place a few hours away. Two calm days are better than a rushed long journey.
A big family gift bought together
A television, a washing machine or a holiday, given by all the children or all the friends as one gift.
No idea matches these choices. Set one of the boxes back to "Any".
Your shortlist
Choosing a wedding gift
- By custom the amount ends in one, such as 101, 501 or 1,101, because the extra rupee is considered auspicious. The amount itself depends on your closeness and your means.
- Write your name on the envelope. The family keeps a record of who gave what.
- If you give an object, choose something for the home that does not depend on taste, and include an exchange slip if possible.
About the spending levels
This site does not quote prices, because prices change with the city, the shop and the year. Each idea is marked with one of four levels instead:
- Token: A small gesture: the cost of a snack or a few cups of tea.
- Modest: An everyday gift for friends and family.
- Generous: A special gift for someone close or a big occasion.
- Grand: A once-in-years gift, often given by a family together.
Questions people ask
What is a good wedding gift?
By custom the amount ends in one, such as 101, 501 or 1,101, because the extra rupee is considered auspicious. The amount itself depends on your closeness and your means. Two ideas from this page: "A tea or coffee set" and "A silver coin".
Is it fine to give money?
In India, money in an envelope is a normal and welcome gift on most family occasions, especially weddings and festivals. Add a line of blessing and your name. See our page on shagun.
Other occasions
Guides
- Shagun: giving moneyThe envelope, the extra rupee and how to decide the amount.
- Gifting etiquetteGiving, receiving, regifting and gifts to avoid.
- Return giftsIdeas for birthdays, weddings, pujas and housewarmings.
- Gift wrappingWrap a box neatly, or wrap without paper at all.
- Gift messagesShort lines to write on a tag or card, to copy.
- Secret Santa name drawerPair everyone for a gift exchange on one phone.