[DougEric]

We are having our wedding and reception at a friend's house (a really, really big house!). We want to do something special for him, but don't know what is typical. What sort of gift is typical to give to someone hosting our wedding at their home?

[Etiquette Guy]

This is always a challenging situation. Having lived in a very large house for a number of years, I remember that one of my favorite "presents" was a tree, which was planted to commemorate an occasion. Perhaps this idea will resonate with you. Best of luck!

[Wedding Queen and MOG]

Oh, I LOVE that idea, Jay.

My so got married recently and we gave tree saplings for the rehearsal diner favors. Mine's planted and it's a lasting memory of a special day, and an eologially friendly thing to do.

I'd suggest thinking abut the host's personality and his hobbies and get something really personal. If he loves the theater, tickets for a show he's been dying to see may be a great choice. Is he a wine lover? Maybe schedule a wine tasting and take him for a weekend. of course, you'd have to consider your budget when making these purchases. But don't be a slave to what it should cost. The value of the gift comes from the heart, not the wallet.

[Etiquette Now]

I agree with the Wedding Queen that the gift should be something personal, something you know he would like and something that is tailored specifically for him. For example: all of my friends know I love to learn (about most everything!) and I love wine. So, one of our friends gave me a wine book written by a university professor. It was perfect! I love it. So, as with all gifts, we give for the actual person based on his/her loves, passions, and hobbies.

Generous friend!

[Ohio Wedding Planner]

I agree with the previous post and think that this is more of a personal taste decision. Since we don't know your host, then we can't give you a specific answer that will work best. I don't know the details of your wedding, but possibly scheduling a cleaning staff to come through the next day or after the wedding weekend, would be nice. No matter how good the service staff is, there will still be things that need to be cleaned through after having a large group at your home. Your budget will play the biggest factor in what you are able to get them though. I think that all of the experts have offered some great choices for you, good luck!

[Etiquette Now]

Oh! I absolutely love that idea! That is just one of the great examples of why you are a great planner! Of course, it is also a great example of being a good friend. Your friends must love you

[Ohio Wedding Planner]

Thanks! I worked with a bride last year who used her brother's house and after she said their only complaint was that they didn't realize how messy the WHOLE house had become, so I figured it is a good suggestion. Some people might not want strangers in cleaning their house though, so it is better to figure that part out before you offer that as a gift!

[Wedding Queen and MOG]

Oh, that IS a great idea, Brandi. Almost makes me want to host a wedding for someone to get the house cleaned up!
We live on 3 acres so...? heh

[Weddings Unlimited]

Not knowing your gracious friend, I could list a lot of ideas, but my favorite would be to name a star in the heavens after him and present it in some unique way at the reception. Bring in a large telescope and let the guests see just how special his is.

[Wedding Queen and MOG]

Wow, that's another great gift idea. I love how you suggest to bribng a telescope to show the star off. It really adds a unique personalization. Thanks!