UNIQUE
WEDDING GIFTS

Now that wedding season is upon us and
the list of gifts to buy is growing long, you are
confronted or challenged with a decision:
What will be a special and wonderful gift that
the couple will cherish forever? Those guests
who don't want to give the typical bridal reg-
istry selection of assorted place settings, chi-
na and crystal, should consider some of the
suggestions offered by Ann Lawrence,
renowned designer and purveyor of antique
linens and laces.
Most people are comfortable with the fa-
miliar and tend to stick to the same gift over
and over. It means so much more to the re-
cipient when you select something a little dif-
ferent or unusual. "I feel that the quality and
type of gift is a real reflection on the giver, so
it is important to personally choose some-
thing," says Miss Lawrence. Create an indi-
vidual type of gift – perhaps one centered
around a particular theme. Some ideas to win
their hearts — "Romantic Weekends," a set
of colored Venetian cordial glasses and de-
canter; 'White Nights," a basket filled with
a white Brussels lace bed cover, sheets and
pillowcases; "Tea for Two," a teapot and tea
caddy; "My Favorite Things," a wicker ham-
per filled with an assortment of dishes, glass-
es, linens; and "Sweet Dreams," his and hers
silk robes and dressing gowns.
If you know the couple well, then consid-
er their lifestyle and select a gift accordingly.
For the contemporary couple who loves to
entertain, a selection of Majolica luncheon
plates or serving pieces is best. Traditional-
ists might enjoy a cashmere paisley throw,
a bamboo rocker or toile tray made into a
small side table. Perhaps they like old-fash-
ioned things — items such as linen table-
cloths, a pair of continental size linen pillow
shams with lace trim or a set of six matching
Irish linen damask hand towels are a few of
Ann Lawrence's favorites. Agar -den settee or
a wicker loveseat could capture the romantic
and practical side of the outdoor enthusiast.
Some unwritten rules that are helpful to re-
member when giving a gift: Even though
many etiquette experts say you have a year
to send your gift, Ann Lawrence feels that is
too long. Three to six months seems to be
much more timely as well as appropriate. How
much you spend really should depend on you.
She strongly believes it is the thought that
counts and something from the heart means
much more than a careless choice. 1 1

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BRIDES • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 1993 • 49