There’s no rule that says you have to buy a wedding gift from the couple’s bridal registry. In fact, if you know them well and understand their vision for a life together, you may select a much more meaningful gift by avoiding the registry which is typically filled with necessary but somewhat impersonal items. Here are some alternative gift ideas for newlyweds, but set your budget before shopping. If you don’t shop with a limit in mind you might find yourself spending for more than if you’d bought that pricey stemware they asked for to begin with.

Tool Box

A tool box may not be the most romantic gift a newlywed couple could receive, but if they’re the practical type or are also new homeowners, you can bet it’s one they’ll appreciate. Fill the tool box with basic hand tools, an assortment of nails and screws for hanging photos, a roll of duct tape, and a how-to book on home repair. They’ll be thanking you each time they save money on simple home maintenance.

An Artistic Portrait

Wedding photos will be cherished for years, but a Warholesque portrait will look awesome in their new house. The company All Pop Art can turn any photo into a canvas portrait in the style of artists like Warhol and Lichtenstein or like a frame of a classic comic book. There are several styles to choose from, and prices start around $100.

Cooking Classes

Assumptions that a new wife knows how to or wants to cook meals every day are outdated. Modern newlyweds typically share household tasks and may enjoy spending time in the kitchen together. Taking cooking classes together is both romantic and practical. But don’t sign them up for a specific class; they may have other plans or one person may be unavailable. Instead, pay for a series and let them choose which classes they’d like to take. You could tuck the gift certificate inside an oven mitt or wrap it in a dish towel for a fun presentation.

A Record Player

No, it’s not for every couple, but if your newlyweds are hipsters or love vintage style, they’ll enjoy spinning some vinyl on a made-to-look-old-school brand new record player. Some players are USB adaptable and can also play an MP3.

A Museum Membership

A yearly membership to a museum in their area provides newlyweds with more than a little culture; it also gives them a free date night anytime they need one. Membership often includes many extras like special invitations to new exhibit premiers, free visits to sister museums and discounts at museum cafes and gift shops. Prices for membership depend on what’s available in their area.

Gourmet Salts

“When one cries, the other tastes salt” is a quote about the close bond of true lovers. A gift of exotic culinary salts is a unique way to show your faith in the couple’s future. A complete selection of salts housed in a handsome bamboo case is available from Uncommon Goods, but a smaller assortment arranged in an inexpensive gift basket would be just as lovely. Make sure to include the quote so they understand the sentiment of your gift.

Holly is an Indianapolis native with a passion for writing. In her spare time, she blogs on behalf of Sears and other brands she enjoys.

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