Just between us… given enough cash and a copy of the gift registry, anyone can pick out a perfectly pleasant present for the bride and groom.  But a memorable gift isn’t all about money, it’s about thoughtfulness.  Wouldn’t you prefer to give a gift that stands out from the blur of blenders and fingertip towels?  Wouldn’t you rather give a gift that has them remembering your thoughtfulness long after the credit card bill has been paid?

This month the Everyday Diva has a few out-of-the-ordinary gift ideas for you, each of which can be scaled to reflect your own budget and relationship to the betrothed.  Be as economical or extravagant as you choose.

Cook Up Something Special

Create a one-of-kind collection of favorite recipes for the couple.  This works particularly well if the bride or groom is a close family member.

First, choose an eye-catching recipe file or binder, and several packs of coordinating recipe cards.  These are widely available at craft, cooking, and home stores.  If you have time, creativity, and are computer savvy, you can even design your own. 

Then send a note to every grandmother, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and family friend asking them to send you two or three of their special recipes for the couple.  Enclose a few of the recipe cards and a self-addressed, stamped return envelope.  Provide a deadline and include your phone number for any questions. 

As the cards come in, sort them into categories (entrees, deserts, appetizers, etc.) and file them away in the box or binder.  Include the extra cards for recording new family favorites.

Although this makes a great gift by itself, you may want to use it as the centerpiece of a gift basket featuring kitchen gadgets, dish towels, gourmet foods, or a gift certificate to a specialty cooking class.

Memories are Made of This

Help the bride and groom catalog their wedding memories by providing them with a blank scrapbook and all the trimmings.  You’ll have no trouble finding dozens of themed options at local craft stores and discount retailers.  Be sure to include extras like photo corners, stickers, cut-outs, decorative-edge scissors, glue, markers, and re-fill pages.  If you’re really feeling generous, include a gift certificate for photo processing.  The returning honeymooners are bound think warmly of you when they don’t need to take out a second mortgage just to get their photos printed.

A custom-outfitted picnic basket for two is a practical, economical and romantic gift.  Personalize it by picking a theme that suits the couple.

Traditional – Check import stores for a sturdy wicker hamper.  Select a heavy, woven tablecloth that can double as a picnic blanket, and matching napkins.  Choose coordinating plates and tumblers in glass or high-quality plastic; but go with real flatware.  There are many inexpensive patterns available with casual, colored handles that are perfect for al-fresco dining.  Look for thoughtful extras, like sealing salt and pepper shakers.  Inspire them to use your gift by including a book from the Quick Escapes or Weekend Getaways series, or a travel guide to the couple’s city of residence.

Sporty – Look for an insulated, nylon tote at discount retailers or sporting goods stores.  Many come with cold packs to extend the life of refrigerated items.  A camping blanket that is waterproof on one side (also available at sporting goods stores) makes a great multi-purpose picnic blanket.  High-quality plastic is the material of choice for utensils and serving ware.  The camping section of larger sporting goods stores carry an amazing variety.  For inspiration, include a pass to a state park, tickets to a sporting event, or a guide to area hiking or biking trails. 

Sophisticated - Look for a carrier that includes wine storage compartments.  Some specialty shops carry picnic baskets designed with wine in mind.  Choose a good-quality linen blend tablecloth (in a large size) and matching napkins.  Wine glasses, plates and flatware should be of a quality you would use indoors.  Include extras like a cheese slicer, candle sticks, a bud vase, and corkscrew.  A pair of tickets to an outdoor concert or theater venue will add to the luxury.

I suppose the couple wouldn’t have gone to the trouble of registering if they weren’t hoping to score at least a few items they needed and desired.  But with a few creative touches, you can make the most generic of registry items a gift to remember.

Crystal - Have a pair of champagne flutes engraved with the couple’s initials and wedding date. 

Sterling - They’ll need somewhere to store it.  Get them a silver chest and perhaps have it engraved.

Wineglasses - Include a bottle of your favorite wine, a wine journal, or membership in an online wine-of-the-month club.

Linens or towels - Consider monogramming, but in an updated style.  What about a small, single letter in a coordinating color along the bottom edge?

Cheese board or fondue set - Include a gift certificate to a gourmet foods store (local or online).

Coffee maker - Include a coffee grinder and a bag of a luxury coffee blend.  You might also consider a gift certificate to a coffee shop, or a year’s membership in a gourmet coffee club.

Lawn and garden items - Include a pass-along plant from your own garden in a beautiful container.  Be sure to include advice on placement and care.

You get the idea.  A memorable gift is all in the thought behind it, and personalizing it for the receiver.  These little extras will keep the kudos coming, and leave your family and friends wondering how you manage to come up with the perfect thing, every time.