Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and your parents play a special role in your journey. They have supported and loved you unconditionally, and as you embark on a new chapter in your life, it's important to show them how much you appreciate them. As a wedding photographer, I get asked by brides often what they should get their parents as a thank you. Instead of traditional gifts, why not surprise them with unique and personalized gifts that will touch their hearts? Here are some original ideas to make your parents feel truly special on your wedding day.


  1. Customized Artwork: Commission a custom piece of artwork that holds special meaning for your parents. It could be a portrait of your family, a painting of their favorite place, or a personalized map that marks significant locations in your family's history. This thoughtful gift will be a beautiful and unique addition to their home, reminding them of your love and appreciation every time they look at it.
  2. Memory Box: Create a memory box filled with precious mementos and keepsakes that hold sentimental value. Include items such as old family photos, handwritten notes, small trinkets, and other cherished memories that you have shared with your parents. Decorate the box with your wedding theme or a special quote, and present it to them on your wedding day. This heartfelt gift will allow them to reminisce about precious moments and treasure the memories forever.
  3. Handwritten Notes: A heartfelt, handwritten note is a sentimental gift that can convey your emotions in a deeply personal way. Take the time to write a heartfelt letter to your parents expressing your love, gratitude, and appreciation for their role in your life and your wedding day. Share your fondest memories, express your feelings, and let them know how much they mean to you. Your parents will surely treasure these heartfelt words for years to come.
  4. Wedding Day Photo Album: Create a special photo album that captures the precious moments of your wedding day, including candid shots of your parents. Include pictures of them getting ready with you, walking you down the aisle, and sharing emotional moments with you. A wedding day photo album can be a beautiful keepsake that your parents can cherish as a tangible reminder of your special day. I design and offer wedding albums to all my couples, taking the stress out of the equation for you!
  5. Quality time: Sometimes, the most precious gift you can give is your time. Plan a special outing or experience for your parents, such as a family brunch, a spa day, or a weekend getaway, where you can spend quality time together and create lasting memories. This can be a thoughtful gesture that shows your parents how much you value and cherish the time you spend with them, and it can be a meaningful way to express your appreciation.
  6. Customized Wine or Whiskey Set: If your parents enjoy a good glass of wine or whiskey, consider gifting them a customized wine or whiskey set. You can have the bottles engraved with their names or a special message, and include personalized glasses or accessories. This unique gift will not only be appreciated by wine or whiskey lovers but will also serve as a reminder of your special day whenever they enjoy a drink.
  7. Personalized Recipe Book: Compile a personalized recipe book that includes your family's favorite recipes, passed down through generations. Include recipes that hold special memories and have been enjoyed by your family during gatherings and celebrations. You can add photos, notes, and anecdotes to make it even more special. This personalized recipe book will be a cherished gift that your parents can use to create family meals and continue the culinary legacy
  8. Charitable Donations: Another meaningful way to show appreciation on your wedding day is by making a charitable donation in your parents' names. Choose a cause or organization that is meaningful to them, and make a donation in their honor. This thoughtful gesture not only shows your gratitude, but it also contributes to a cause that is close to their hearts, making it a meaningful and impactful gift.
  9. Parent Dance: During your wedding reception, consider having a special dance dedicated to your parents. Choose a meaningful song and share a dance with your parents, expressing your love and appreciation through the power of music and dance. This can be a touching moment that creates lasting memories and shows your parents how much they mean to you.


Remember, the most meaningful gifts are those that come from the heart. When choosing a gift for your parents on your wedding day, consider their interests, preferences, and sentimental value. The gesture itself and the thought and effort put into the gift will speak volumes and show your parents how much you value them and their role in your lives!