Choose thoughtful thank-you gifts

Most couples put a lot of consideration into the details of their wedding day. Wardrobe, flowers, music and food are just a few of the hand-selected accents that complement the celebration. While you may have specific ideas about the ceremony and the reception, it is important not to overlook the details that show your appreciation to all the helping hands.

Remember to thank your parents and bridal party for all of their support. Unique gifts that showcase personal interests will be cherished. Your gifts may inspire you to incorporate something special, like the M.I. Hummel Dearly Beloved cake topper, into your wedding day decor.

Make a list of the people you would like to recognize with thank you gifts. In addition to the table favors, popular etiquette dictates that special gifts are generally given to both sets of parents as well as attendants in the wedding. Your list may be longer depending on the number of special participants in your event.

Presents for close friends and family members do not have to reflect the theme of your wedding or tie into the ceremony. You probably know these people better than anyone. So, choose a gift that reflects their personal tastes and interests, even if they are not necessarily your own. Take a few moments to relax from the hectic wedding plans and think about each person individually and your relationship with him or her to spark gift ideas.

Consider their hobbies. Sports fans may enjoy a gift certificate for dinner during a game at a popular sports bar. Athletes may appreciate activity-themed gifts like a ski resort lift ticket or a round of golf at the local country club.

Ask yourself if the person has a special collection. Popular collectibles such as M.I. Hummel have a variety of pieces that can often be hand personalized to make wonderful gifts, such as the Dearly Beloved trinket boxes and holiday ornaments. If interest in the collection is one you share with the recipient, you may want to treat yourself to an item that can be incorporated into your own wedding like the Dearly Beloved cake topper.

If no particular pastime stands out, simply reminisce for inspiration. It is important that your gift convey the significant role this person plays in your life and not just in your wedding.

With all of the excitement, you may want to put some thought into selecting an appropriate time to present the thank you gifts. Scheduling a dinner or lunch the week before the wedding with both sets of parents creates an ideal time to pamper them with your gifts and give everyone a much-needed break from wedding-planning stress.

For attendants, the bride and groom can give bridesmaids and groomsmen their gifts at an intimate luncheon the afternoon before the rehearsal. It will be the perfect time — before busy festivities begin — to show them how much you appreciate their support.

If these pre-wedding events are not practical, pull each person or couple aside during the rehearsal dinner or anytime when you can steal a moment of privacy. This is your chance to show your appreciation; take advantage of this special moment. Remember it is always considered fashionable for a couple to generously express gratitude before, during and after their special day.

For more information on the Dearly Beloved collection and other charming M.I. Hummel pieces, contact Goebel at (800) 991-4GNA (4462) or visit www.mihummel.com.

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