30 Great Gifts for Your Son On His Wedding Day

Surprise the groom with one of these thoughtful presents from his parents.
Four wedding gift ideas for son: one-line-a-day journal, personalized bracelet, wallet photo card, cufflinks
Photos, clockwise: Amazon, BraceDesigns, RedDotLaserEngraving, Talia Sari
emily rumsey the knot editor
by
Emily Rumsey
emily rumsey the knot editor
Emily Rumsey
Assistant Commerce Updates Editor
  • Emily helps maintain and update e-commerce content for The Knot
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Emily worked as a website editor and manager for The Paleo Diet®
  • Emily holds two bachelor's degrees in Journalism and International Affairs with a Chinese minor
Updated Aug 08, 2024
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Watching your son get married is an emotional time for any parent—and choosing a thoughtful gift for your son on his wedding day is a sweet opportunity to show him how proud you are of the man he grew up to be. Of course, finding the right wedding gift for your son isn't always easy. After all, it's not every day your child gets married to the love of their life. Luckily, we've got some tips to help you shop for a special gift for your son on his wedding day.

If you're looking for a gift for your son and his new spouse, using their wedding registry is highly encouraged. It's a convenient way to find exactly what they want across various price ranges, ensuring they both will appreciate the choice. Feel free to select a practical item they've listed while also adding a sentimental keepsake just for your son—trust us, no one will turn down more gifts!

Alternatively, trust your instincts and opt for a unique wedding present that he'll treasure, whether or not it's on his registry. We've compiled the most thoughtful wedding day gifts for grooms from one or both parents to assist you in your search. Once you've decided, consider including a note to convey your heartfelt wedding wishes for your son.

1. Heirloom-Worthy Watch

Elegant watch gift for son on wedding day
Photo: Vincero

We're starting off with a truly classic idea for what to give your son on his wedding day: a striking watch. This style is casual enough to wear every day, but that doesn't mean it's basic. The leather strap and streamlined black face feel equal parts sophisticated and modern. Engrave the back with a hidden message for your son on his wedding day.

2. Keepsake Watch Box

A leather watch box makes a truly thoughtful wedding gift for your son, especially if you both appreciate fine timepieces. This elegant box features a glass top that can be custom engraved with a quote or name. We love the sentiment, "Time has a wonderful way of showing us what matters," as it encourages him to reflect on life's moments that have led to this special day. With five cushioned compartments to hold his accessories, it's not just a beautiful display piece but also a practical organizer.

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3. Custom Landscape Collage

Custom illustration of son and new spouse at national park gift on wedding day from parents
Photo: Uncommon Goods

If your son has always had an adventurous spirit, choose a gift that celebrates his love for the outdoors. This customized art print depicts him and his partner (or you, for a family piece) looking out over one of the country's stunning national parks. You can also have the artist create a custom landscape collage by sending them the name of a special destination and any defining features you'd like to highlight. Perhaps it's the scenic vantage point where the couple got engaged, making it an extra-meaningful wedding gift for your son and his new spouse who share a love of nature.

4. YETI Cooler

YETI cooler wedding gift for son
Photo: The Knot Registry Store

One of the best places to find wedding gift ideas for your son and future daughter-in-law or son-in-law is actually on their registry! Consider snagging one of the big-ticket items like a YETI Roadie Cooler. Whether they want it for tailgates, beach days or camping, it's built for every adventure. It has a slim, tall build that lets it fit easily behind a car seat, while its lightweight and sturdy rotomolded construction makes it virtually indestructible. With impressive ice retention, it can keep up to 76 canned drinks or food for the whole family cold and fresh for days. And don't worry about it getting heavy. The retractable Periscope handle is reinforced for extra-heavy provisions, while the NeverFlat Wheels feature solid, puncture-resistant tires, making it easy to transport even on rocky terrain.

5. Personalized Travel Map

Personalized travel map wedding gift for son
Photo: Uncommon Goods

The honeymoon is just the beginning. If your spouse has found the ultimate travel companion, present them both with this vintage-inspired map of the world. Personalized with their names and wedding date, it comes with 100 push pins for marking their adventures together. Framed and ready for display, this map will let them chronicle a lifetime of journeys and cherished memories.

6. Elevated Weekend Bag

Elevated overnight bag gift idea for son.
Photo: Mark & Graham

Made from waxed canvas and classic brown leather, this timeless duffle bag will serve him on many romantic getaways and weekend breaks with his new spouse. The spacious interior includes a 15-inch laptop compartment and the outside is finished with stunning antique brass hardware. Go the extra mile by having it debossed or foil-stamped with his initials.

7. Nostalgic Wallet Card

engraved wallet card wedding gift for son from mother and father
Photo: RedDotLaserEngraving

We love this photo wallet card as a wedding gift from the groom's mother or father because it lets him carry his family and their love wherever he goes. Print a sweet snapshot from his childhood that he can pull out and reminisce over anytime, anywhere. Bonus: You can also engrave a personal message on the back wishing him many years of happiness with his new spouse.

8. High-Tech Wallet

Ekster wallet wedding gift idea for son.
Photo: Ekster

No matter how old he gets, he'll need help from his parent(s)—like answering where he put his wallet when he comes to visit. Ekster's slim leather wallet boasts several smart features, like a quick card-access mechanism and room for an optional tracking device. Problem solved! It can even be engraved with up to 20 characters for a personal touch.

9. Personalized Handkerchief

Personalized handkerchief wedding gift for son
Photo: MrandMrsEmbroidery

Do you think he'll get a bit misty-eyed on his wedding day? Give him a handkerchief he can keep during the festivities and hope that the special message embroidered on it doesn't bring on a fresh wave of tears. If you need help brainstorming what to say, here's a classic: "Today a groom, tomorrow a husband, forever my son."

10. Sentimental Pocket Watch

Sentimental pocket watch wedding gift idea for son.
Photo: Brelsen

Here's a special gift for a son on his wedding day from a parent. The bronze-colored stainless steel pocket watch is stamped with an image of a lion and its cub walking together. A sweet message is engraved around the picture, reading: "To my son, when life tries to knock you down, this old lion will always have your back." It's even more meaningful if you used to watch The Lion King together.

11. Custom Map Cuff Links

Custom map cuff links wedding gift for son
Photo: Talia Sari

For a wedding gift that celebrates both love and life's journey, consider Talia Sari's collection of map jewelry. From classic cufflinks and tie bars to pendant necklaces and rings, each piece is beautifully etched to show the street patterns of a location of your choice with a lab-grown diamond marking the exact address on the map. We love the idea of highlighting your son's childhood home, the place that raised him into the man he is today. This elegant, wearable memento serves as a constant reminder that home is where the heart is, even as he moves forward into this new chapter with his spouse.

12. Personalized Wine Barrel

Personalized wine barrel wedding gift idea for son.
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Help your favorite newlyweds keep track of every celebration with this unique memory box. Made from an upcycled wine barrel, this personalized cork keeper lets them showcase the big and small moments in their relationship in a special way. No worries if they're big drinkers—the back opens easily when it's time to empty and start over. For an extra thoughtful touch, include a Sharpie so they can write the date and occasion on each cork.

13. Whiskey Lover's Crate

Man Crates personalized whiskey decanter and glasses gift for groom from mother or father
Photo: Man Crates

This one's for the son who likes to celebrate with a special bottle of bourbon. The gift set includes a beautiful glass decanter and two matching rock glasses, all personalized with his name or initials. But that's not all: There are also two molds for making sphered ice, two rustic slate coasters, a journal to keep track of his tasting journey and a selection of tasty nuts to snack on. Now, that's an impressive gift for a son who's getting married.

14. Engraved Liquor Bottle

Engraved liquor bottle wedding gift for son
Photo: Reserve Bar

Don't forget the alcohol itself! For a truly memorable wedding gift, consider a custom engraved bottle of your son's favorite high-end liquor, such as Don Julio 1942. This elegant gift combines luxury and personalization, making it perfect for commemorating his special day with a special drink. Note: When ordering, you'll need to enter the delivery address before exploring the custom engraving options. Keep in mind that the size of the bottle will determine how many lines and characters can be added.

15. Baseball-Inspired Decanter and Whiskey Tumblers

Baseball inspired decanter and tumblers wedding gift for son
Photo: Mark & Graham

A decanter is a sophisticated and elegant wedding present for a son who appreciates fine spirits, especially when it reflects his hobbies. For a unique gift idea for the groom from his mother or father who spent years taking him to Little League, consider this baseball-inspired bar set. The decanter is shaped like a bat, and the four glasses have baseball impressions on the base. Personalize it with the couple's shared last name for a meaningful and memorable gesture that hits a home run.

16. Golf Gift Set

Personalized golf ball gift set for son on wedding day
Photo: Mark & Graham

Buying a gift for a golfer? If your son spends his Sundays on the fairway, he'll be thrilled with this personalized present. Inside a monogrammed wooden box are 12 matching custom golf balls and a dozen tees and pencils to keep him going for plenty of rounds to come. It's a sweet wedding day gift that celebrates your son as an individual before he officially couples up with his wonderful spouse-to-be.

17. One-of-a-Kind Experience

Tinggly Superman experience gift box in front of off-road vehicle
Photo: Tinggly | Facebook

How much you love and support your son can't be put into words, so give him a gift that's equally intangible. Tinggly's Superman gift set gives your son the opportunity to embrace a brand new experience, like swimming with manatees or learning to surf with his other half. This thoughtful gift comes with an encouraging life lesson: never stop making memories. It's basically the perfect wedding gift for the groom from his parent(s).

18. Date Ideas Book

Date ideas book wedding gift for son
Photo: The Adventure Challenge

This wedding present for a son and daughter-in-law or son-in-law holds a similar sentiment: The Adventure Challenge's Couples Edition book helps them start creating memories right at home. Each scratch-off date idea introduces new and unique experiences, such as blindfolded baking, to encourage adventure and spontaneity. It's an ideal way for them to bond as they embark on married life, ensuring each day is filled with surprises and joy. This set even includes a camera so they can capture every moment on film.

Recieve 25% off sitewide with the code THEKNOT25!

19. Secret Message Bracelet

Secret message bracelet gift idea for son.
Photo: BraceDesigns

An understated bracelet goes with every outfit, so this leather band with an industrial metal clasp is just the wedding gift for your son. It can be custom engraved with a sweet message that ensures he's reminded of you every time he wears it. You also get to pick out the color of the leather.

20. Round Box Chain Necklace

Round box chain necklace wedding gift for son
Photo: Mejuri

If you're looking for a timeless gift for your son on his wedding day, consider a chain necklace. This sophisticated piece features a classic design that suits any occasion, whether he's standing at the altar or enjoying the beach on his honeymoon. It's not just a stylish accessory but also holds sentimental value, symbolizing the strength and continuity of his loved ones, including his new spouse. We guarantee he'll rarely take it off, keeping your best wishes for his journey close to his heart.

21. Wedding Photo & Memento Album

Wedding photo and momento album from Uncommon Goods.
Photo: Uncommon Goods

The couple might already be ordering a wedding album from their photographer, but that doesn't mean they can't have fun scrapbooking their favorite pictures from the day as well. This gorgeous coffee table book is full of blank pages just waiting to be filled with snapshots, invites, menus, fabric scraps, notes and more. They'll flip through it often—as will you every time you visit to recount the special day he tied the knot.

22. Wedding Tree

Wedding tree gift idea for son.
Photo: 1800Flowers.com

A tree is an unconventional but meaningful gift for your son and his partner for their wedding, as it'll serve as a living and lasting reminder of their love. Plus, many saplings have a special meaning. A magnolia tree, for instance, symbolizes luck and stability—plus its early spring blooms and deep-green leaves with velvety undersides are super pretty. Choose between a small or large plant and then add a plaque that says, "Happy wedding day!"

23. Leather Dopp Kit

Personalized dopp kit wedding day gift for son
Photo: Swanky Badger

Personalized presents always feel special and this vintage-style toiletry bag is no exception. The faux leather dopp kit is laser-engraved with your son's first name, last name or initials in gold lettering with an intricate Art Deco frame. It's roomy enough for all of his grooming essentials (or travel essentials if he wants to take it on the honeymoon).

24. Classic Cologne

le labo cologne wedding gifts for son from mom or dad
Photo: Nordstrom

How about a luxury fragrance that'll help him remember the special day? This rich scent has notes of iris, sandalwood and leather, making it classic enough for everyday wear, too. His soon-to-be spouse will love it as well!

25. Personalized Cutting Board

Personalized cutting board wedding gift for son
Photo: Uncommon Goods

What about something for the couple's newlywed nest? This cutting board is engraved with both their names joined by heart for a personalized touch to their dinner parties. Although, we wouldn't blame them if they keep it in the kitchen purely as decoration since it's just so cool!

26. Family Recipe Book

Family recipe book wedding gift for son
Photo: Papier

Is your son an aspiring cook or always craving mom or dad's home-cooked meals? Help him bring those cherished recipes to his own kitchen with a fill-in-the-blank cookbook. This personalized gift allows him to compile all his favorite dishes in one beautifully designed book, complete with custom sections for appetizers, mains, desserts and more. It's not just a practical tool but a heartfelt gesture that ensures he can savor those familiar flavors anytime, even if miles away from home.

27. Engraved Wine Bottle Coaster

Engraved wine bottle coaster wedding gift for son
Photo: Farrar & Tanner

You're familiar with an ice bucket, but what about displaying wine without chilling it? This sophisticated wine bottle coaster enhances the newlyweds' dining table with luxury while safeguarding surfaces from wine drips and stains (like the dreaded red wine on a white tablecloth). Crafted from high-quality pewter, it ensures durability and craftsmanship, becoming a lasting addition to their home. Personalize it with their initials, names, a date or a brief message for a personal touch. Consider pairing it with a bottle of wine to toast to their future together in style.

28. Smart Home Security System

Smart home security system wedding gift for son
Photo: Best Buy

All you've ever wanted for your son is his happiness and safety. Now, secure the latter with this thoughtful groom gift from his mom, dad or both. SimpliSafe is a comprehensive wireless home security system that protects against fires, water damage and intruders. This nine-piece set includes an outdoor and indoor camera with two-way audio, a user-friendly keypad, a base station with 24-hour battery backup and a loud siren, and four sensors for doors and windows designed specifically for human detection, not pets.

29. Name a Star

Name a star wedding gift for son
Photo: Star Registration

Here's a unique wedding gift for your son and his wife or husband that's as timeless as their love: a star! Imagine commemorating their union with a star shining brightly in the night sky, uniquely named and registered in their honor. This celestial gesture symbolizes the infinite possibilities ahead for their marriage, as well as a constant reminder of their enduring bond. You can choose from a single star, a binary star (two stars orbiting each other) or even a constellation. They'll receive a certificate, a star map and a factsheet to learn all about their special gift, providing them with something to cherish and display.

30. One Line A Day Journal

One line a day journal wedding gift for son
Photo: Amazon

The first year or so of marriage can be challenging yet incredibly rewarding. Help your son cherish and reflect on each day of this new chapter with this "One Line a Day" journal. This thoughtful gift allows him to jot down a brief daily note over the course of five years, capturing moments both big and small. It's a meaningful way to celebrate their journey together, offering a glimpse into their growth as a couple over time.

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