Do you give an engagement gift?
An engagement gift is not expected the way a wedding gift is. Still, close family and friends often give the couple something small - as congratulations and to share the good news. If they throw an engagement party, a gift is a lovely gesture.
As there are usually several months between the engagement and the wedding, it is the perfect time for a gift that helps with the planning.
Gifts they will use at the wedding too
1. A QR album for guest photos and videos
At the wedding, guests scan the QR code on the tables and upload their photos and videos to one album - no app, in full quality. The couple never have to chase anyone for photos afterwards. As an engagement gift it has one more advantage: they set up the album in good time and print the QR codes along with the rest of their wedding stationery.
With Bloomsy you give it as a voucher with your dedication that arrives by e-mail right after payment.
2. A wedding planner
A planner for the budget, guests and dates is a practical gift right at the start of the planning. Write your dedication and the engagement date inside.
3. Dance lessons
It pays to prepare for the first dance in good time. Dance lessons are a practical gift and time together for two.
4. An engagement photo shoot
Photos for the invitations or wedding website - and the couple get used to the camera before the wedding.
Personal gifts
5. A print with the engagement date
A map of the place where they got engaged, with the date and their names. It will remind them of the day every day.
6. A frame for an engagement photo
A simple but always welcome gift. If you have a photo from their engagement, put it straight into the frame.
7. Engraved champagne glasses
Glasses with their names and the date, for toasting the engagement and later the wedding.
8. A ring dish or ring box
A pretty home for the engagement ring and later the wedding rings. A small gift they will use for years.
9. A memory book
An album where the couple keep everything from the engagement to the wedding - invitations, cards, photos and little mementoes.
For the engagement party
10. A bottle of good champagne
A classic that never disappoints. They can open it straight away or save it for the wedding night.
11. Flowers for the bride-to-be
Flowers are a lovely way to congratulate the couple at an engagement party. A small bouquet is plenty.
12. Dinner for two
A voucher for their favourite restaurant, where they can celebrate the engagement just the two of them.
Experiences for two
13. A spa break
Some rest before the wedding planning really gets going.
14. A wine tasting
A day out at a winery, where they can choose the wine for the wedding at the same time.
15. A weekend away
A few days away from home to dream about the wedding and their future together in peace.
How much to spend and who gives
An engagement gift is usually smaller than a wedding gift - often between €20 and €50. It mostly comes from parents, siblings and the couple's closest friends. At an engagement party, guests usually bring flowers, a bottle or a small gift.
If Christmas is coming up, see also 25 Christmas gifts for engaged couples. For what to give at every occasion from the engagement to the wedding, read What to give an engaged couple.
Frequently asked questions
Do you give an engagement gift?
It is not obligatory, but close family and friends often give the couple something small - as congratulations and to share the good news. If the couple throw an engagement party, a gift is a lovely gesture.
What engagement gift for a friend?
Something personal or practical for the wedding planning - a wedding planner, a frame for an engagement photo or a voucher for a QR album where guests upload photos at the wedding. It does not need to be expensive.
How much to spend on an engagement gift?
Usually less than on a wedding gift - often between €20 and €50. With an engagement, the gesture matters more than the value.
Which engagement gift will the couple actually use?
One that helps with the wedding. For example a QR album for guest photos, dance lessons or an engagement photo shoot - all used before or at the wedding.