If you know of someone who recently got engaged it is somewhat customary in certain cultures to buy them a congratulation gift. It may initially seem hard to think of something to buy them, but once you think about it you will find there are plenty of options. A bottle of wine or champagne is a common choice, but not awfully creative. If, however, you do feel as if you need to go ahead and buy such a gift please ensure it is at least a good bottle of the stuff! On the other hand, such offerings of luxury food and drink are things that can be enjoyed by both members of the couple at the same time, which will help celebrate their ‘togetherness’. Some people feel it is a good idea to give ‘useful’ gifts especially if the couple are living together, but quite often it is best to wait until the wedding before you use your useful gift idea up! If, however, you do know the couple very well and think that a particular useful gift would be enjoyed by them, go ahead and give it!

One good broad range of gifts is that that features ‘his and hers’, for example towels (only if they’re living together!) that can be hung in their bathroom. This makes them experience every day what it is like to be together. If you cannot stretch to an engagement gift, or are completely out of ideas on what to give the couple, a card will always, always be welcome!