Exchanging gifts with your bride-to-be before your wedding has become tradition. Although some couples don't buy gifts for each other, many give their new spouse something to mark the beginning of their lives together. Remember that it doesn't have to be expensive or flashy, but should be an item that comes from the heart and reflects your feelings.

The best way to choose a gift for your bride is to think about her personality and what she likes or dislikes. What are some of her favorite things ? What does she do in her free time? Does she adore romance and flowers, or is she a laid-back country girl? An active bride who plays outdoor sports will probably not enjoy the same gift  that a city girl who likes fine wines and gourmet food will, so tailor your bride's gift to her lifestyle.

Make the gift personal and your bride will love it. A  note or poem about how you met, how much you love her and what she means to you will be a memory she'll always treasure. Put it in a beautiful mahogany box or silver keepsake holder. A sparkling pair of diamond earrings or a delicate gold bracelet, along with a handwritten card or note is a perfect gift for a woman who wears jewelry. An engraved locket or keepsake with her name, the wedding date or even “Mrs.” and her new last name are thoughtful and unique. Even a dozen red roses deliverd to her on the morning of the wedding, her brand of perfume, or a photo album with pictures of the two of you will show your bride how much you care.

There are a lot of really creative gifts you can give to go above and beyond the popular jewelry gifts or bouquets of fresh flowers. If your bride loves poetry, find an antique volume of literature and write a note in the book cover. If she spends time on the golf course,  a new set of clubs or a bag for golf shoes gives a personal touch to the bridal gift. A bride who likes to be pampered will appreciate a customized day of facials, massages and nail treatments at a local spa.

For a more casual gift, wedding-themed pyjamas or robes will make your bride think of you each time she gets ready for bed. You can find monogrammed robes or “bride” pyjama sets, or simply choose nightwear that suits your bride's style. Sexy lingerie is a gift that you might get to enjoy on your wedding night as well!

You can exchange gifts at the rehearsal dinner, the night before your wedding, or have a groomsman deliver the item on the morning of the wedding. Or, you could wait and surprise her at the hotel after your wedding reception in the honeymoon suite. Whatever you choose to give your bride as a gift, add a personal touch to let her know how excited you are to spend your life with her.