The art of giving gifts

The season of the proverbial ‘khaam’ (envelope) is back. The arrival of the wedding season means many of us will be dishing out a few of those. Granted, a few banknotes shoved in an envelope is practical. It’s also time-efficient and hassle free. But it can also come across as tactless and mundane, especially if someone close to you is getting hitched. We’ve rounded up some ideas that are a lot more thoughtful than cold, hard cash to help you deal with the awkwardness of giving money.

Consider a voucher instead of cash

Depending on your budget, you can buy a couple round trip tickets to Pokhara or Chitwan. Alternatively, a voucher for a spa day can also be a good idea, as are gift cards for maybe their favorite bookstore or clothing line. Tickets and vouchers are essentially cash but it will show the receiver that you put some thought and effort into it. Many stores these days offer gift cards for fixed amounts. All you have to do is buy one of these.

Make them something

If you are good at painting, knitting, or any other craft, consider making something for the newly-wed couple. If you are good at macrame, an evil-eye wall hanging could be a nice idea. You can also commission an artist to make a painting of the couple during their wedding day and gift it to them if you aren’t good with a paintbrush. Personalized gifts will bring a smile to their face long after their special day is over.

A digital magazine subscription

With more and more online portals going behind paywalls, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to access good content online. A newspaper or magazine subscription for a year or two could make an ideal gift for those who value information and knowledge. The New York Times subscription costs $10 and is value for money as you will have full access to many good articles and podcasts. A Netflix or Spotify account will be appreciated by those who love movies and music.

Ask them what they want

In the US and many other places, couples about to get married make an online wedding registry of the things they want. Guests can then pick from the list and give them something they would need in the course of their life together. We don’t have that system in Nepal but you could simply ask the couple what they would like. Depending on your relationship with them, they might just tell you, making the process of gifting easier and personal.

Donate in their name

The trend of making donations to charities or supporting orphanages in the name of the couple getting married is becoming increasingly popular. Sponsoring a dog at an animal shelter (to help them pay for their meals and upkeep) is a good idea. Most of the places will give you a certificate in the name you make the donation in and you can simply pass this on. This is one gift that keeps giving. The receiver can choose to continue with the donation later on. You will have got the ball rolling.