Ask a Professional Bridesmaid: What kind of gift should I buy if the bride’s registry is bought-out?

Dear Jen,

 

Oops I did it again. I waited until the very last minute to buy the bride a gift off her registry and now every single thing is sold out. What do I do now? I don’t want to hand her over cold cash for her bridal shower. I’d like to get her something that she wants. Any ideas?

 

Sincerely,

Oops I did it Again

 

Dear Oops I Did it Again,

 

I’ve grown a bad habit of browsing through bride’s registries the second their save-the-dates come out and then forgetting to go back until it’s too late. Until every single thing on there, even the kitchen knives and the washcloths, has already been purchased. I’ve learned that it’s okay. There’s no need to panic since you have a few viable options:

 

1. Get something similar. If she has a certain taste that you can pick up from the registry, browse those stores for something complimentary and purchase that.
2. Give her a gift certificate to the store she registered at. When a bride goes to register, they take a guess on what they like and what they need – but they could always use more. A gift card to that store will come in handy.
3. Find something personal. If you’ve known the bride and the groom for a while, you may know something they need but didn’t register for. It’s okay to stray away from the online registry and get them something you think they will use and appreciate.

 

All my love,

Jen Glantz