Wedding season is upon us, and while guests are regularly assured their “presence is the present”, many still desire to gift something that marks the milestone. Rukaiya Daud, the founder of online object d’arts boutique Fourth Street, the and the co-founder of luxury bedding brand Sutram, says the event lends itself to a token of affection that will endure, rather than a strictly pragmatic offering.
“While a cash contribution may seem practical, I wonder if it loses some magic,” she says. “Short-term, the practical pieces may seem better, but in 20 years will you remember the appliance, or a special object? Chances are the former will be out of date, but the object will live on.”
When sourcing gifts for newly-wedded or engaged couples, Daud, an “unconventional gift giver”, advises to maintain a level head. “If it feels forced, like anything in life, I would stick to their wishes and go down the path of least resistance,” she says. “If it sparks a feeling in both you, but also of what you believe in the [recipient], then that is a beautiful thing.”
Daud’s Fourth Street is a trove of matrimonially appropriate gestures – from candlesticks rendered in luxurious materials (“used for special occasions, or daily life… something that makes a ‘home'”) to the brand’s iconic Egg sculpture (“the Egg symbolises new beginnings, rebirth, a fresh start – something that applies to any stage of life, but is particularly fitting for a wedding”). Or for everyday opulence, Daud points to a set of sheets. “This is another nice way to mark a new beginning,” she says of an item “that is sometimes overlooked in relation to how much pleasure they provide”.
And don’t overlook the power of the written word when assembling a wedding gift. “A card is more than just a formality — it’s a personal touch that shows you put real thought into their day,” says Ali Head, the co-founder of luxury greeting card brand Cardboard. “When you choose a card for newlyweds, you’re giving them something they’ll keep long after the celebration, a small but lasting piece of their memories. Not to mention, giving a heartfelt card is probably the chicest thing you can do.”
Frustrated at the deficit of aesthetically attractive, inspiring and price-sensitive greeting cards, Head and her co-found Portia Austin launched Cardboard “for any occasion, for everyone”. “We genuinely believe in the power of the written word to connect people,” says Head. “This feels more important now than ever.”
As for crafting the perfect congratulatory message, Head suggests keeping it “genuine and heartfelt”. Failing that, she and Austin have developed a tried and true formula for such an occasion.
“Start with a warm greeting: begin with “Dear [couple’s names].” Next, “Congratulate them – simple and heartfelt, like ‘Congratulations on your special day!’ or ‘So happy for you both!'” Following, Head suggests adding a personal touch, “whether it’s a memory, something you love about them; its nice to add a little humour here.” Well-wishes are also advised: “Wish them a bright future together with something like, ‘Wishing you both all the happiness in the world’ or ‘Here’s to many years of love and adventures!'”
Finish with a warm sign off. “Wrap it up with ‘With love,’ ‘Best wishes,’ followed by your name.”
Ready to shop? Below, T Australia editors round up their favourite forever-worthy gifts and cards for upcoming nuptials.
Photograph courtesy of Max Mara. 
Photograph courtesy of Paspaley. 
Photograph courtesy of Merit. 
Food Face card game by Buffet. Photograph by Nikki To for Buffet. 
Collage courtesy of the brands. 
