How to Make a Wedding and Honeymoon Gift Basket

What should you include in a wedding night gift basket? Anything that will pamper them for the night and refresh them for their honeymoon if they're leaving the next day. There are no rules. It's all about who the couple is and their likes and dislikes.

Instead of actually placing all the items for the bride and groom in a huge basket, consider other options. They are traveling the next day so they won't be able to store your basket. And they may not be stopping off anywhere where a relative can take it home for them. So go with a disposable or reusable tote. A canvas personalized tote is a good idea because they can use it during their honeymoon or to carry souvenirs home. When it's not in use, they can fold it flat in their suitcase.

Include bottled water, sparkling water, or champagne. Add in some gourmet chocolates or cheese and crackers. Chocolate covered strawberries are also a nice touch. A pair of personalized slippers makes a nice treat after a long night of dancing, so include one for each person.

Other things you could include are sunblock, extra toothbrushes, small shampoos and conditioners, bath bubbles, a candle and matches, m&ms, soda, trail mix, antacids, pain reliever, flip flops, lip balm, nail file or clippers, and any other personal items you think they'd need.

The Sea Spray Spa Towel Cake shown here is a unique and clever gift that is perfect for any honeymooning couple. It is created from rolled 2 white plush terry towels, one terry hand towel and two face cloths to form the base of the 'cake'. Tucked among the layers are ocean scented products such as body wash, sachets and a votive candle as well as some sand castle themed tea light candles.

If the couple is traveling to a place they've never been, research some things to do at their destination.

Include printouts of restaurants, bars, clubs, art museums, or other attractions. Or you could include a guide book detailing special places at their honeymoon site.

Include a travel bag for their passports and documents or other travelers' needs like calling cards for dialing home.

Put yourself in the bride and groom's place. What might you want to take to Aruba or on a cruise to Alaska that you might have forgotten? Would the latest paperback bestseller make a nice beach read? Include anything that will make their lives easier and carefree for a few days.

For an added touch of thoughtfulness, arrange to have room service bring them anything they want and bill your credit card (set a limit ahead of time if this concerns you). Include a little gift card that says, "Room service is on us" and sign your names so that they know they're welcome to splurge a little. It's little treats like this that make a couple's wedding time even more memorable and fun.