A Time for Giving: For friends and family who have given you their love and support, you’ll want to choose a thank you gift that’s both thoughtful and memorable. While finding the perfect gift seems like a daunting task, with the help of area business owners and their staff you’re sure to discover exceptional items.
          
When visiting area shops, be sure to ask for ideas and recommendations. The shop owners might let you know of an incredible gift that you might not necessarily spot while browsing. And don’t forget to ask if these stores offer bridal registries. Most do, and will be glad to keep a list of your selected items. Here are some of the more popular gift-giving items:

Gifts for women: jewelry, monogrammed handbags, cosmetic cases or totes, monogrammed business card cases or compact mirrors, a gift certificate to their favorite store, a bottle of fine wine, chocolates. Gifts for men: monogrammed business card cases, a bottle of fine wine, money clips or metal flasks or desk accessories, a future or pre-wedding charter fishing trip for all attendants, a monogrammed overnight/carry-on bag.            

Gifts for children: a special book with an inscription from the bride or groom, a charm bracelet for girls, personalized backpacks, tickets to a favorite attraction. Gifts for parents: framed photo of the bride or groom sharing a special moment with their parents during the bride or groom’s childhood, framed photo of the bride and/or groom with their parents on the wedding day, bottle of fine wine, jewelry for mothers.
 

The Perfect Accessories: The options for event and fashion accessories run the gamut from fun to formal, but every item is sure to be unforgettable. Area businesses, especially those focused on accessories for women, are very savvy about trends and also those classic items for a special occasion. Don’t be shy about asking area store owners or staff for their advice on everything from shoes to handbags, to shawls and unique jewelry. They’ll be glad to tell you what they like, what you might like, and what will best compliment your event attire. Read more about gifts & accessories in the print version of the Coastal Event Planner.      

Select Gifts & Accessories Providers (also see Jewelry):

Cooks n’ Connoisseurs
1907 S. Glenburnie Road, New Bern, NC
www.cooksandconns.com

DeeGee’s Gifts
508 Evans Street, Morehead City, NC
800.DEE.GEES or 252.726.3314

GiGi’s Stationery
Serving All of Eastern NC
252.675.5014
http://gigis.mystore.com

Pamlico Barn Co.
4529 NC Highway 55 East, New Bern, NC
252.636.0700

Tassels Shoes, Gifts & Accessories
Pelletier Harbor Shops, 4426 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC
252.247.SHOE
www.tasselshoes.com