The 30 best bridal shower gifts for when she doesn’t have a registry | CNN Underscored (2024)

Got a bridal shower on the horizon? You don’t want to show up empty-handed, so we’ve curated a list of thoughtful bridal shower gift ideas that’ll make her feel loved, supported and even more excited about her big day.

Bridal shower gifts are often practical products like kitchen appliances and home essentials that’ll help the couple establish their new life together. If the bride has a registry, that’s the perfect place to start to get a sense of her tastes and needs. You don’t have to go the traditional route, however, and it can be a lovely gesture to bring an extra, unexpected gift that’s just for the bride.

This might be something luxurious she’d never buy for herself or a small, sweet memento that’ll always remind her of this special time in her life. The most important thing is to consider the bride’s style and interests as you shop. Some brides can’t get enough of “Mrs.” gear, while others would prefer non-themed products they can use long after the wedding’s over. Customizing gifts is always a good idea, but just remember that not all brides change their last names. If you’re unsure what the bride’s plans are, consider personalized gifts with her wedding date or the couple’s first names instead.

Whether you’re looking for a bridal shower gift that’s sentimental, practical or just plain fun, our list has you covered.

Quince's robe is made from pure, washable mulberry silk, meaning it's elegant without being fussy. Gift one for the bride to wear on her wedding morning — and any time she wants to feel a little more glamorous.

Don't let their dainty looks fool you: These bestselling wine glasses are both chip-resistant and dishwasher-safe, meaning they won't get relegated to the back of the couple's cupboard.

The Company Store's plush, 100% cotton towels will add a touch of luxury to the bride's daily routine. The set comes in a wide range of rich colors and is available with monogramming options as well.

Gift this spacious bath caddy to help the bride unwind after hours spent wrangling vendors, arranging seating charts and tracking down RSVPs.

No bathtub? No problem. A set of soothing shower steamers can make any bathroom feel like a calming oasis and is another excellent (not to mention inexpensive) gift for the stressed-out bride.

This cookbook is packed with fabulous recipes designed for two, plus kitchen tips that any newlyweds should know (think: properly storing food and setting up a pantry).

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Make the bride's journey to a far-flung honeymoon locale more comfortable with this convenient travel set. The mask is perfect for red-eye flights, while the lightweight blanket can double as a shawl or scarf once she reaches her destination.

For some serious luxury, gift the bride this candle from a brand synonymous with romance. The glass votive evokes Tiffany & Co's iconic diamond cuts while the sophisticated fragrance features notes of fir balsam and patchouli.

For a more affordable yet still festive option, we recommend Homesick's "Team Bride" candle, which has a fresh, citrusy scent that brings to mind a crisp glass of sparkling rose.

Perfect for picnics, barbecues or just relaxing at home, custom koozies are an inexpensive and practical gift for the fun-loving bride-to-be.

Crafted from durable, sustainably harvested maple wood, John Boos & Co.'s cutting board is tough enough for everyday use and elegant enough to double as a serving platter. Add the couple's names or wedding date for a thoughtful addition to their kitchen essentials.

With its silky fabric, delicate lace accents and adjustable straps, Jonquil's top-rated chemise will make a flirty and flattering addition to her lingerie collection.

A custom sweatshirt is a comfy and cozy gift that the bride will never want to take off. You can choose everything down to the thread color, and because the text is embroidered rather than just ironed on, it won't flake away over time.

Featuring non-slip rubber bottoms, squishy memory foam insoles and adorably fluffy pom poms, these slippers will make fabulous accessories for the bride's bachelorette party and wedding morning.

Toast to the happy couple with these sweet and affordable champagne flutes from the Knot, featuring plenty of fun and unique customization options.

With its supremely plush, pill-resistant fabric, Barefoot Dreams' cozy blanket is great for snuggling on the couch after a long day of wedding planning.

A lovely and inexpensive gift that'll keep the bride's necklaces, earrings and, of course, rings safe on the go.

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Fill Crate and Barrel's elegant frame with your favorite picture of the couple (or even a sweet childhood photograph of the bride's spouse-to-be). You could also leave the frame blank with a handwritten note for the bride to display her favorite wedding photo when the time comes!

This stunning, hand-painted cake stand will make a gorgeous addition to the bride's kitchen.

Made from biodegradable vegan leather and offering colorful, foil-debossed monogramming, these luggage tags are a stylish and practical gift for the honeymoon.

A gal can never have too many totes, and the bride will appreciate having a sturdy bag for carrying all her shower gifts home.

These coasters combine to form a map of the meaningful location of your choice, such as the place where the couple met or got engaged. Made from tumbled marble with a protective cork backing, they'll be unique and useful additions to the bride's home.

Whether she's getting ready for the big day or relaxing at home, Eberjay's cute and comfy pajamas are sure to become a favorite in the bride's wardrobe.

Bagsmart's roomy and affordable toiletry bag will keep the beauty-loving bride organized at all her wedding-related events. We particularly love how the bag's wide, structured mouth makes it easy to see products without digging around.

This wine cooler will add some serious class to any table setting while keeping whites and roses perfectly chilled throughout the meal. It also makes for a very chic flower vase or utensil holder.

These classy Tiffany & Co. napkins are ideal for special occasions, but they can also add a little luxury to romantic nights in.

The bride can wrap herself in plush comfort with this super-soft and absorbent robe, made from 100% Turkish cotton. Like all the best bridal shower gifts, you can personalize the robe with her name or monogram too.

This indoor herb garden is a super fun and easy way for the couple to add some fresh flavors to their home-cooked meals.

This pretty dish will be a convenient place for the bride to stash her rings and other jewelry at the end of each day.

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The 30 best bridal shower gifts for when she doesn’t have a registry | CNN Underscored (2024)

FAQs

What do you need to bring to a bridal shower if there is no registry? ›

It is customary for invited guests to bring gifts to a bridal shower (showering the bride with gifts) regardless of the presence of a formal registry. Traditional gifts are lingerie, and related items . . . If you are unsure of the bride's tastes, give a Visa Gift Card or cash.

What kind of gifts do you give for a bridal shower? ›

Some ideas for bridal shower gifts include personalized jewelry, scented candles, silky PJ sets, slippers, or a gift card to a local salon or spa. A gift table will typically be set up where guests can leave their wrapped presents and cards.

Is $100 enough for a bridal shower gift? ›

According to Opperman, bridal shower gifts tend to be less expensive than wedding gifts. "Many people spend around $50 to $75, whereas closer friends and family may spend upwards of $100," she says. "However, the amount you want to spend is up to you."

What should a guest bring to a bridal shower? ›

Common bridal shower gifts include kitchenware, from small appliances or utensils to towels or dishes. Shower gifts tend to stick to the event's specific theme if it has one. A cooking class shower might require a gift of your favorite cookbook, while the hostesses of a lingerie shower will ask for, well, lingerie.

What do you get the bride who has everything at the bridal shower? ›

Something for the wedding day or honeymoon: A gift the bride can use on her wedding day or honeymoon is both a practical and sentimental choice. You might consider unique toasting flutes, a custom jewelry case to hold her accessories, or pretty lingerie she can pack in her honeymoon luggage.

Do you have a bridal shower if you dont have a registry? ›

Does the Bride Need a Registry for a Bridal Shower? Not necessarily. The actual wedding registry can also function for the bridal shower. If, however, it's a lingerie shower, that would require a separate registry should the bride want to register for specific lingerie.

How much money is acceptable for a bridal shower gift? ›

The appropriate amount of money to give as a bridal shower gift is the same as the amount you would spend on a tangible present: $50–$75. Give the couple as much as you can comfortably afford within that range. If your budget doesn't quite stretch to the $50 mark, that's okay.

Is it OK to give a gift card at a bridal shower? ›

Yes, a gift card is appropriate for a bridal shower! In fact, some couples even ask for gift cards on their registry. It's a great opportunity to provide the duo with the freedom to choose whatever they want. And its flexibility makes it a fun and beloved gift that'll definitely be used and appreciated.

Who pays for bridal shower? ›

In short, the host is the one who pays for the bridal shower—or at least some of it. Most commonly, this is the maid of honor, but the couple's relatives, friends or even the to-be-weds themselves can all pitch in to cover the cost of the wedding shower.

Do you normally bring a gift to a bridal shower? ›

As opposed to the actual wedding, it's appropriate to bring shower gifts with you. After all, a portion of the party will likely be dedicated to the bride opening her gifts.

What do you wear to a bridal shower? ›

More conservative than the bachelorette party looks but less formal than the actual wedding ceremony attire, the bridal shower is the time to bring out the sweet floral dresses, midi skirts, and jumpsuits. It's the chic moment before the turn up and boy, do we love to turn up. If you're the bride, lucky you!

Is it OK to give cash as a wedding shower gift? ›

Cash gifts are perfectly acceptable, according to Emily Post.

What not to wear to a bridal shower as a guest? ›

Pastels, neutrals, florals, and bright celebratory colors are the way to go. And if there's going to be games opt to wear something comfortable. Avoid wearing white, black, or anything that may detract from the wedding festivities.

Who should not host a bridal shower? ›

Traditional etiquette dictates that the maid of honor—not the mother of the bride—should host the shower.

What is the difference between a bridal shower and a wedding shower? ›

The bridal shower is designed for just you and the girls while the wedding shower is a co-ed party where the bride and groom both get showered with gifts and love. If you're a bride who loves to party and celebrate, then have both a wedding shower and bridal shower!

What do you give when there is no registry? ›

And if the couple doesn't have a registry, you can choose something from our picks for the best wedding registry ideas. We also recommend thoughtful things they can eat or drink, mementos of the occasion, or items you know will fit in with the couple's aesthetic sense (which may not be yours).

What do you give someone who has no wedding registry? ›

If you're searching for a gift idea for a bride then consider getting them a beautiful piece of jewellery to add to their collection. For something a little less extravagant, think vouchers for their favourite store, or a selection box of luxury chocolates.

What to get a couple that doesn t have a registry? ›

"When I see the words 'No Registry,' it generally suggests that cash gifts are welcome—even when it says, 'Your presence is our present. ' Personally, I love the way I feel when I give a meaningful gift. My go-to gift as of late is planting trees in honor of the couple in a place that is special to them.

Is it rude to not have a wedding registry? ›

At the end of the day, it's not weird to not have a wedding registry — but not having one might not get you what you really want as a wedding present. Your guests will take time to celebrate your new beginning, so it's up to you to make the experience as pleasant and seamless as possible for them.

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