My man and I were married young at the tender and barely legal drinking ages of twenty-two and twenty-three. And while we knew we would be a very mobile couple with plans to move clear across the country within a year of the wedding, we still felt some pressure to follow the tradition of racking up all kinds of kitchen and home decor goodies on a “must have” wish list for guests to tote along in shimmery wrapping to our big day.
Now coming up on our six-year anniversary and having lived in three states and a South American country during that short period of time, we see that this traditional gift registry idea may be a better idea for some than others. My parents and sister sure enjoyed the use of the less travel-friendly gifts and for that, I am glad someone gets use out of our wok and fine crystal. But in the hopes of advising other young couples from making a similar mistake, may I offer this suggestion—traditional is not necessary or always the best idea.
Couples nowadays are doing less traditional ceremonies and even untraditional attire, but I add that they should feel free to extend that non-traditionalism into what’s best for their “wish list” needs, such as a money tree for your housing, grad school or honeymoon fund, and let us not be afraid of the impersonally dubbed gift card. Now some gifts will be items you never would have thought to ask for and become surprising necessities and many gifts are the kinds of gifts that will stand the tests of time and travel. For tips on those must-haves (if you don’t already), I’ve decided to compile a list of the top twelve gifts we received that have traveled with us many thousands of miles and are still kickin’ strong. Here goes ...
1. Calphalon Pot and Pan Set (Bed, Bath & Beyond)—Six years ... six years of heavy daily use and they’re still looking and working great. Hands down one of the best gifts ever!
2. Tea Kettle (Target)—Great modern and crazy durable design.
