Necklace As A Wedding Gift: Is It Appropriate?

A necklace is a great wedding gift idea for your partner or spouse. It can be a special keepsake to commemorate the day and your unique bond. If you're unsure about when to give the necklace, there are several options. You could present it to them right after the ceremony and before the reception, or during a private moment before the wedding, such as during your first look or while getting ready. Another option is to have a loved one deliver the gift to their getting-ready room. If you want to make it even more special, you could hide the necklace and have them find it, or present it in a creative way, such as inside a larger box or with a special delivery person.

Necklace packaging: use a box or envelope with bubble wrap/tissue paper to avoid damage

When it comes to packaging a necklace for a wedding gift, it's important to use the right materials to avoid damage during transit. Here are some detailed instructions on how to package a necklace using either a box or an envelope, along with bubble wrap or tissue paper for added protection:

Using a Box:

• Place a piece of bubble wrap or tissue paper flat on a table or any hard surface.
• Lay the necklace on the bubble wrap or tissue paper, making sure any pendants or charms are positioned in the centre.
• Gently fold the sides of the bubble wrap or tissue paper over the necklace, ensuring it is completely covered.
• Starting from one end, carefully roll the bubble wrap or tissue paper around the necklace, creating a secure bundle.
• Secure the roll with a small piece of tape.
• Place the rolled necklace into a box, preferably one that is slightly larger than the roll to accommodate padding.
• Fill any remaining space in the box with additional tissue paper, packing peanuts, or other filler to prevent the necklace from shifting during transport.
• Close the box and seal it with tape.

Using an Envelope:

• Cut a piece of bubble wrap or tissue paper to fit inside the envelope.
• Place the necklace on the bubble wrap or tissue paper.
• Gently fold the sides of the bubble wrap or tissue paper over the necklace to cover it completely.
• Starting from one end, carefully roll the bubble wrap or tissue paper and the necklace together, creating a thin, secure bundle.
• Place the rolled necklace into the envelope.
• If desired, add additional tissue paper or padding to the envelope to protect the necklace and prevent shifting.
• Seal the envelope closed.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the necklace arrives safely and is presented beautifully as a wedding gift.

Shipping method: use a trackable and insured method such as UPS or FedEx

When it comes to sending a wedding gift, it is generally considered rude to bring it to the wedding. Instead, it is recommended to ship the gift to the couple's home. This saves them the burden of having to manage its journey back home and reduces the risk of the gift being misplaced or stolen.

UPS and FedEx are two reliable shipping carriers that offer trackable and insured shipping methods, which are ideal for sending valuable items such as jewellery. Here are some detailed instructions for shipping a necklace as a wedding gift using UPS or FedEx:

UPS Shipping Method:

UPS provides shipping insurance for valuable items, including jewellery. To ship a necklace as a wedding gift using UPS, follow these steps:

• Sign up for a UPS account: Create an account on the UPS website to access their shipping services.
• Declare the value of the necklace: When creating your shipment, ensure you declare the value of the necklace accurately. UPS includes up to $100 in declared value for all shipments, but you can purchase additional coverage if needed.
• Select the appropriate service level: Choose a service level that suits your timeline and budget. Keep in mind that faster delivery options may cost more.
• Package the necklace securely: Use appropriate packaging materials such as bubble wrap and a sturdy box to protect the necklace during transit.
• Schedule a pickup or drop off the package: You can schedule a pickup from your location, or you can drop off the package at a UPS store or drop-off location.
• Track your shipment: UPS provides tracking information so you can monitor the progress of your shipment and ensure it reaches its destination.
• File a claim if needed: In the unlikely event that your shipment is lost or damaged, UPS allows you to file a claim for reimbursement. Make sure to keep the damaged goods and their packaging until your claim is resolved.

FedEx Shipping Method:

FedEx also offers reliable shipping services for valuable items like jewellery. Here's how to ship a necklace as a wedding gift using FedEx:

• Create a FedEx account: Sign up for a FedEx account to access their shipping services and manage your shipments.
• Declare the value: Accurately declare the value of the necklace when creating your shipment. FedEx includes up to $100 in declared value for all shipments, but you can purchase additional coverage if needed.
• Choose the right service: Select a service level that meets your timing and budget requirements. Keep in mind that faster delivery options may come with higher costs.
• Package the necklace securely: Use appropriate packaging materials, such as bubble wrap and a sturdy box, to ensure the necklace is protected during transit.
• Schedule a pickup or drop off the package: You can request a pickup from your location, or you can drop off the package at a FedEx store or drop-box location.
• Track your shipment: FedEx provides tracking information so you can follow the progress of your shipment and ensure it reaches its destination.
• File a claim if necessary: In the unfortunate event that your shipment is lost or damaged, FedEx allows you to file a claim for reimbursement. Keep the damaged goods and their packaging until your claim is fully resolved.

By using UPS or FedEx to ship a necklace as a wedding gift, you can rest assured that your shipment is trackable and insured. Both carriers offer reliable services and provide options for additional coverage if needed. Remember to package the necklace securely and choose the appropriate service level to ensure a safe and timely delivery.

Cost: depends on weight, size, and shipping method

When it comes to sending a necklace as a wedding gift, the cost of shipping will depend on its weight, size, and the shipping method you choose.

If you're sending a small, lightweight necklace, you can expect shipping costs to be relatively low. For example, in the US, the USPS First-Class Package service is a cost-effective option for packages under 16 ounces, with rates typically ranging from $3 to $5.

However, if you're sending a heavier or more valuable necklace, shipping costs can increase. For instance, USPS Priority Mail services are suitable for items over 16 ounces, with flat-rate envelopes costing around $7.40 and small flat-rate boxes costing around $7.90.

It's important to note that some carriers offer additional services, such as insurance, tracking, and signature confirmation, which can add to the overall cost of shipping.

To ensure your necklace arrives safely, it's recommended to use a sturdy box with protective packaging, such as bubble wrap or tissue paper. These extra precautions can also impact the overall weight and size of your package, which may affect the shipping cost.

When choosing a shipping method, consider using a trackable and insured service, especially for valuable items. This will provide peace of mind and help protect your shipment in case of loss or damage.

In summary, the cost of sending a necklace as a wedding gift will depend on its weight, size, and the shipping options you select. By choosing an appropriate shipping method and taking precautions to package your item securely, you can ensure your gift arrives safely and on time.

Timing: send the gift within three months or before the wedding

Timing is an important aspect of gift-giving, and it is recommended that wedding gifts be sent within three months of the wedding, or even before the wedding day itself. This is a departure from traditional etiquette, which allowed for gifts to be sent up to a year after the wedding. Sending the gift promptly is a nice gesture and ensures that the gift arrives before the wedding day.

If you are giving a necklace as a wedding gift, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the timing of when you want the recipient to receive the gift. If you want them to have it before the wedding, you should allow enough time for shipping, especially if you are sending it internationally. You will also need to choose the right packaging and shipping method to ensure the necklace arrives safely. Use a sturdy envelope or box, and consider wrapping the necklace in bubble wrap or tissue paper to protect it from damage or tangling.

If you are concerned about the necklace arriving on time, you may want to opt for a faster shipping method, such as express or overnight delivery. This will ensure that your gift reaches its destination as quickly as possible. Additionally, consider using a trackable and insured shipping method, such as UPS or FedEx, for added peace of mind.

If you are giving the necklace as a gift from one spouse to another on the wedding day, you can choose to exchange gifts right before the ceremony or have a loved one deliver the gifts to your respective getting-ready rooms. Another option is to exchange gifts the day before the wedding, such as ahead of or after the rehearsal dinner. This can be a great way to calm any pre-wedding jitters and create a special moment together during the busy wedding day.

Gift etiquette: consider the couple's preferences and if they have a registry

When it comes to wedding gifts, it's important to consider the couple's preferences and if they have a registry. While it's not mandatory to bring a gift to a wedding, it is customary and a thoughtful way to celebrate the couple's special day. Here are some tips to navigate gift etiquette:

Use the Couple's Wedding Registry

Using the couple's wedding registry is a great way to ensure your gift is something they want and need. Most couples will register for a variety of items at different price points, giving you flexibility in your choice. This also helps to avoid getting them something they already have or don't need. It's also worth noting that the registry isn't just for wedding gifts; it can be used for engagement and wedding shower gifts too.

Cash or Cheque Gifts

If the couple prefers, or if you are unable to find a suitable gift from the registry, cash or cheque gifts are also acceptable. This can be a more convenient option for the couple, especially if they are saving for something specific like a house or a honeymoon. It's also becoming more common for couples to register for cash funds and gift cards, so be sure to check their wedding website for clues and preferences.

Timing of the Gift

While traditional etiquette states that wedding guests have up to a year to send a gift, it is now considered more polite to send gifts ahead of the wedding or within three months of the wedding day. This ensures the gift arrives on time and helps the couple avoid having to manage gifts on their big day. If you're giving a cheque or cash, it's appropriate to bring it to the wedding in a card, or to send it via electronic transfer.

Shipping Gifts

If you're giving a physical gift, it's best to ship it directly to the couple's house instead of bringing it to the wedding. This helps to avoid any burden on the couple to manage and transport gifts, and ensures the safe arrival of your present. Be sure to use appropriate packaging and padding, especially if you're sending something delicate like jewellery, and consider using a trackable and insured shipping method.

Going Off-Registry

While it's generally recommended to stick to the registry, there may be times when you want to give a more personalised gift. If you know the couple well and are confident about their tastes, feel free to choose something unique. However, if you don't know the couple well, it's safer to stick to the registry to avoid getting something they might already have or don't need.

Frequently asked questions