My Unique Gift for the Bride and Groom

by SuzyQ
(Glen Allen, VA)

As much as I want to respect Bridal Registries and wish lists, there is something deep within me that balks at buying something through one of the major retail chains or (worse yet), giving cash.

If I don’t know the couple well enough to design and produce my own unique gift, then I figure I shouldn’t have been invited to the wedding in the first place!

My own signature gift for the bride and groom is a “Family Tree Photo Album,” which combines information in a narrative form about each of their own families, with matching photographs (both old and new).

Because my profession is in the visual and creative arts, I can utilize my background, experience and skills to fashion a totally unique gift that is tailor-made for the couple.

And...

Which becomes an heirloom that can be passed on for generations to come.

I can usually work with other family members to borrow old photographs, which are carefully scanned into my computer.

I also have subscriptions to various genealogical search sites, and can come up with information and documents that become part of the album.

Working with sophisticated software packages, I’m able to combine all of these elements into a truly unique and memorable package, which is printed out on quality paper and inserted into an album that can be added to as their family grows.

These gifts are labors of love for me and from all accounts, have been appreciated by the happy couple.

I’ve even been approached by others who’ve seen my gift to design a similar album for them.

When I made my first album for the wedding of my childhood best friend, I had no idea that it would be such a successful venture.

Making each one is time consuming, but it really is a LABOR OF LOVE.

And other than “time,” it does not cost a lot to make.