30 Big-Ticket Wedding Gifts for BFFs, Siblings and Other Close-to-You Couples
Obviously it's the thought that truly counts when it comes to wedding gifts, but it doesn't hurt to splurge on something special for the couples closest to you. We'd definitely recommend going by the to-be-weds' registry first and foremost (here's how to find their wish list on The Knot), but there are some scenarios where you might decide to go the surprise route. Couples could be hesitant to ask for too many expensive items (since your presence on the big day matters much more than any present!) or choose to forego a registry altogether. For those occasions, we've curated a collection of big-ticket wedding gift ideas that range from heirloom-quality servingware to elevated everyday essentials.
When it comes to the nuptials of longtime besties, siblings and children, sometimes you just want to go big. And you probably already have a great grasp of their taste in gifts, so if anyone can handle an off-registry mission, it's you. Read on for our editor-picked list of the best wedding gifts over $200 that are worth splurging for (because a very-pricey basket of tiny registry odds and ends doesn't quite have the same impact).
1. KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Qt. 10-Speed Stand Mixer
Beloved both by home bakers and professional pastry chefs, this iconic mixer is sure to become a family heirloom. It whips up glossy egg whites and decadent buttercreams in a flash, and stands strong even when mixing heavy doughs on high settings. It's built to last, so they can look forward to decades of mixing batches of their grandmother's secret cookie recipe.
2. iRobot Roomba i3+ Wi-Fi Connected Robotic Vacuum
Upgrade your favorite couple's cleaning routine with this smart vacuum. It's Wi-Fi enabled and equipped with special sensors so it won't bang into walls or furniture as it sucks up dirt and grime. It's an especially great option for a couple with pets or little ones. And if they're spending less time vacuuming their love nest, there's more time to soak up those new moments of marital bliss.
3. Le Creuset 5.5 Qt. Signature Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven With Lid
This famous French-made Dutch oven was a hit with Julia Child, so it's guaranteed to get some "oohs" and "ahhs" when it's unwrapped at the wedding shower. Besides the outer enamel coating, which comes in a slew of jewel-like shades and is resistant to chips, these kitchen workhorses have excellent heat retention and distribution in the oven or on the stovetop. So that means a nice, even cook on all of those future weeknight meals.
4. Estelle Colored Glass Champagne Coupe, Set of 6
There's no better glass set to toast with than these effortlessly elegant coupes. We adore the vintage-y silhouette and colorways—think petal pink and smoky amber—and how each glass is blown by hand. We can hear bottles popping already.
5. Michael Aram Cherry Blossom 2-Piece Marble Cheese Board
While we agree a spread of good-quality cheese can be pretty showstopping on its own, this marble cheese board and spreading knife set from designer Michael Aram might steal the spotlight from even the most delicious triple-cream brie. The handles are hand-forged from brass and feature the most delicate cherry blossoms tinted with blush pink. Although it would go over well with anyone, we think this would be a thoughtful choice for a D.C.-dwelling couple, given the area's famous cherry blossom trees.
6. All-Clad 6.5 Qt. Electric Stainless Steel Slow Cooker
If the soonlyweds you're shopping for are serious home cooks, they'll adore this slow cooker for easy meals from chef-favorite brand All-Clad. The stainless steel finish will look elegant on any countertop, and it's super intuitive to use, so even beginner cooks won't be faced with too many R2-D2-looking buttons. They'll think of you every time they throw together an effortlessly delicious weeknight meal!
7. Kate Spade New York Parker Place Oval Platter
A cookie platter for company or an array of appetizers will get a chic upgrade with this timeless bone china platter from Kate Spade. The simple powder blue border adds some color, while the platinum accent edge brings a welcome touch of sparkle. Plus, when sitting pretty on a wedding gift table, this elegant piece can be a couple's something blue.
8. Nespresso Vertuo Espresso Machine With Milk Frother
Is there anything more luxurious than sipping a latte next to your sweetie at home? We don't think so. That's why this all-in-one home espresso machine—complete with an included milk frother—is one of our favorite things to gift to our closest couples. Just pop in the capsule of choice, select the beverage you're craving that morning and press start. We'll bet the recipients will start holding their coffee mugs with their left hands to show off that new wedding bling.
9. Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Fire Pit With Stand
This portable fire pit from Solo Stove is sure to incite some serious backyard envy. It's smokeless, so it can be set up anywhere and won't bug neighbors (hello urban patio upgrade). Plus, a removable ash catcher makes it easy to clean. Get together, get cozy and break out the marshmallows.
10. Vitamix Ascent 64 Oz. 10-Speed Electronic Programmable Blender
Take it from us: A Vitamix always goes over well as a wedding gift. This high-tech model (which comes in the most stunning brushed copper color) offers 10 different blending speeds to cover everything from smoothies to pesto. The chop setting is great to save some prep work, too, giving the happy couple more time to unwind after their big day and less time spent in the kitchen.
11. BALMUDA Toaster Oven With Steam Technology
This might just be the world's sexiest toaster oven. No, seriously. The sleek minimal design begs to take center stage on the countertop. It's not all looks, though—the steam technology provides the perfect balance of crispness and moisture, so it'll do justice to pizza leftovers.
12. All-Clad D3 10-Piece Non-Stick Stainless Steel Cookware Set
All-Clad pots and pans are a culinary industry favorite and the D3 set adds even more bells and whistles to this tried-and-true cookware. It includes essentials like two fry pans, two sauce pans, a three-quart sauté pan and an eight-quart stockpot. The skillets have more surface area than other brands and each piece is crafted with tri-ply steel with an aluminum core. In cook talk: That means everything will heat evenly and stay warm longer. (And in turn, taste better.)
13. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Statement 20-Piece Self Sharpening Knife Block Set
A luxurious wedding gift should function in a way that makes the recipients' life feel elevated and this well-stocked knife block does just that. The block itself is outfitted with sharpening technology inside each knife slot, so the blades get a little TLC every time they're removed. No more fussing with finicky honing rods or noisy electric sharpeners. The set includes 2 paring knives, 2 utility knives, a 5.5" prep knife, a 5.5" boning knife, a 7" Santoku knife, 8" bread and carving knives, plus an 8" chef's knife and a pair of kitchen shears. Oh, and there are eight steak knives for big dinner parties.
14. Airbnb Gift Card
Give the gift of adventure. The to-be-weds will totally appreciate an Airbnb gift card to use toward their next trip. After all, the best wedding gifts don't have to be physical. Splurge on a high-amount gift card and give them a free night's stay.
15. W&P Porter 15-Piece Refrigerator and Pantry Storage Set
Nothing says "life upgrade" more than tossing all of the mismatched, beat-up Tupperware cluttering the kitchen cabinets and investing in a more streamlined food storage system. Enter: this gorgeous 15-piece set. Each piece—mugs, glasses, bowls, utensil sets and more—has a sleek and modern silhouette and a non-slip rubberized coating available in a selection of chic hues. Every item is made from eco-friendly materials, too, and will save the happy couple some plastic use. This set is the gift the couple never knew they needed, but won't be able to live without.
16. Kate Spade New York Fair Harbor 45-Piece Flatware Set, Service for 8
One of our most elegant Registry Award winners, this Kate Spade flatware set looks like it belongs on the dinner table of a present-day Jackie O. The handles are the perfect blend of classic and modern, with a minimalist shape and two etched bands for a little bit of interest. The set also includes serving utensils for a cohesive look on your tabletop. And since it's made from durable 18/10 stainless steel, the flatware will stand up to everyday use (which is great, since they'll want to use these gleaming utensils as much as possible).
17. Estelle Colored Glass Glass Cake Stand
Whether it's a homemade, hand-iced Bundt cake or a dozen store-bought sugar cookies (don't worry, we won't tell), any sweet treat will look gourmet when perched on this hand-blown glass cake stand. It's lightweight, modern and supremely elegant, with a few smart touches like a lip around the platform area to contain crumbs. You can't go wrong with any hue, but the lavender color is absolutely dreamy.
18. Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
A Ring doorbell is a wonderful gift for the couple who's always traveling, so they can check on their home no matter where they're jet-setting off to. They'll get real-time notifications whenever motion is detected by their door and can access a live video feed at any time. And with the click of a button, they can speak through it too, whether it's to thank a UPS worker or say hi to a friend coming to water their houseplants while they're away.
19. Waterford Lismore Crystal Tumbler, Set of 4
A crystal wedding gift is always a timeless option if you're looking for a present with wow factor. This set of four tumblers features a classic diamond-and-wedge cut pattern and it's ideal for sipping neat whiskeys around the table after a holiday dinner. Imagine how these would sparkle when they catch the candlelight.
20. Waterford Lismore Crystal Ice Bucket With Tongs
Every entertainer needs an ice bucket, so why not go all out on an eye-catching crystal option? Another pick from Waterford, the diamond pattern is classic and the accompanying tongs feature stunning scalloped edges. Playing bartender has never looked so good.
21. SPUR Experiences Palace of Versailles and Gardens for 2
If the newlyweds are planning on honeymooning in Paris, or are Francophiles who find themselves in the area whenever they have time for a trip, gift this opulent tour for two of Versailles' magnificent interior and gardens. They'll get a more intimate look at the palace's storied history and feel like true royalty as they wander the stately property. For more location-based gifts, browse The Knot's assortment of adventures by SPUR Experiences.
22. Brooklinen Luxe 7-Piece Sateen Sheet and Duvet Bundle
Give the gift of coziness with this luxurious 480-thread count duvet and sheet set from Brooklinen. The fabric is 100% cotton and buttery smooth, so while the idea is that the couple will use this in their own bedroom, you might be tempted to convince them to make up the guest room with this set ahead of your next visit.
23. Pom Pom at Home Riley Oversized Throw
Movie night essential alert: This oversized throw blanket (90" long and 60" wide) is perfect for a couple to cuddle up under with some popcorn and a bottle of wine. It comes in navy, taupe and cream—so there's a color for every decor style—and has the most darling pom-pom trim on each end. And it's machine washable, so no need to worry about spills.
24. Blackstone 36" 4-Burner Propane Gas Griddle
You don't have to be a grill master to appreciate the quality and reputation of Blackstone griddles. This one's 36-inch surface offers plenty of room to squeeze on burgers, hot dogs, veggie skewers and more for the couple's next family cookout. And they can cook each to perfection thanks to the four separate temperature zones.
25. Michael Aram Calla Lily 14" Candleholder
Shopping for a design-minded couple? This stunning brass and enamel candleholder from Michael Aram is the perfect choice. The organic swirling shape adds botanical elegance to any mantle or side table, and the calla lily-shaped spots for candlesticks are beautiful and delicate. It's the ideal gift to show off those oh-so-in twisted taper candles that any interior design buff surely has in their home by now.
26. Spode Blue Italian 2-Piece Tureen and Ladle Set
This Chinoiserie-esque porcelain tureen and ladle duo looks like it could be handed down from a wealthy grandmother, when it'll actually be a favorite wedding gift from you to a couple you love. We love the romantic shape of both pieces and the Italian countryside images that adorn them. Keeping on theme, this would be a wonderful vessel to store and spoon red sauce at the table, if the married-couple-to-be is big on Italian Sunday dinners. Bonus: It's dishwasher safe.
27. Dyson AM11 Pure Cool Tower Air Purifier
City-dwelling couples will appreciate a little fresh air in their apartment, especially if they're in a high-rise with minimal window opening access. This is the Lamborghini of air purifiers, with a sleek, barely there silhouette and diagnostic features to tell the user exactly what they're inhaling. It works fast too, pushing out 290 liters of clean air each second.
28. Paravel Aviator 28" 4-Wheel Checked Suitcase
Vogue touted the benefits of these elegant suitcases, so any couple would be thrilled to receive a pair of them for their honeymoon. Available in many classic colorways (we love the vintage vibes of the cream and brown leather), the Aviator has carbon-neutral and eco-friendly construction, made with innovative sustainable processes and recycled materials. Most importantly, it has ample space for outfits and can hold up to four pairs of shoes, because no one wants to get stuck wearing the same pair of sandals on their tropical honeymoon.
29. YETI Roadie 24 Cooler
If you're shopping for an outdoorsy couple, look no further than this super-sturdy, yet portable cooler from YETI. It's a trunk-sized version of the classic, coveted YETI cooler, with a size that accommodates up to 18 beer cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio. It's also tall enough to chill most bottles of wine. We'll raise a glass (or can) to that!
30. Brewista X Series Hand Coffee Grinder
Add a touch of class to your favorite couple's coffee routine. The X Series Hand Coffee Grinder by Brewista is stylish and effective. The handle is simple to use and the independent Italian steel burrs inside will give them the smoothest grind possible, while the sleek polyhedron details will ensure they look good while grinding.