Choosing a wedding present should consider the circumstances of the couple. For the daughter of wealthy parents, or a self-made woman, or a woman who weds a man of means – gifts can bypass the “usefulness test” and can include items which could be considered indulgent. If the couple is starting off more moderately, items which are useful as well as beautiful are appropriate choices.

Wedding registries are a great help in this regard and will be a good gauge as to the needs and desires of the couple. And there are some standby ideas which are almost always useful and welcome, including:

• Money
• Antique or Modern Furniture
• Artwork
• China Sets
• Silverware
• Clocks
• Books
• Umbrellas
• Fine Linens
• Lamps
• Fine Wine

Sometimes it seems that we have lost our traditions and culture for sake of expediency. Or that rules of etiquette are somehow “quaint” and out of place in modern times. Yet these same rules are exactly what we need; a civilizing set of guidelines.

I hope that is what we can offer on this site. A modern take on the rules of etiquette.