Photo: Jack Jeffries for Christian Oth Studio
Your wedding day is a big day for your parents, too, and surprising them with a special parents-of-the-bride or -groom gift is a great way to honor the occasion and acknowledge the role they’ve played in getting you this far. The tough thing? Dads are notoriously hard to shop for, and picking something he’ll love that commemorates your big day is a double-whammy. For the heart-on-his-sleeve Pop there are so many options to choose from, whether it’s a handkerchief embroidered with “I loved you first” or cufflinks featuring your wedding date. But some dads just aren’t the sappy type, which raises the question: What gift does a bride get her father when he’s more sensible than sentimental? Not to worry! We’ve put together a list of father of the bride gift ideas your dad will love, even if emotions aren’t his strong suit.
A Pair of Tickets
From his favorite musician to the big game, a pair of tickets is a fantastic gift your dad will love — and really enjoy. Set up a fun date night from Dad and Mom, or take a trip home to cheer on your favorite team together.
Photo: Courtesy of Home Depot
Tools of the Trade
Is your dad always tinkering in the garage? Spring for the table saw he’s had his eye on, or upgrade him to a new drill. Or is he more often found in the kitchen? Those kitchen gadgets and awesome appliances aren’t just for your wedding registry. (Dewalt Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, from $349.00, available at Home Depot)
Photo: Courtesy of Reserve Bar
A Stiff Drink
For a dad with an impressive wine collection or a fondness for craft cocktails, seek out a bottle of something he’ll really enjoy. You could tuck it into an engraved wooden box, or have the bottle itself engraved — some distilleries (like Woodford Reserve) even offer their own engraving services. You could also purchase a decanter so he can serve something from his own collection in style. (Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, $41.00, available at Reserve Bar)
Photo: Courtesy of Wayfair
Accessories for His Man Cave
If your dad has carved out a space all his own at home, give him something to dress it up a little more. We love classic games, like a beautiful dart board or a hand-carved chess set, as well as more playful items like monogrammed glassware or a fun sign. (Escalade Sports 5 Piece Dart Board Set, $107.99, available at Wayfair)
See more: How Can I Include My Dad in Wedding Planning?
Photo: Courtesy of The Easton Press
A Classic Read
Intellectual dads will love receiving a leather-bound set of traditional tomes (like The Swiss Family Robinson and Catcher in the Rye). Better yet, figure out which book is his all-time favorite and hunt down a vintage copy. Don’t forget a bookmark! (The Swiss Family Robinson, $256.00, available at The Easton Press)
Photo: Courtesy of Williams-Sonoma
Steak Knives
Whether your dad is a grill-master or just loves eating steak, consider surprising him with a new set of steak knives. Go for a smooth (not serrated) blade that can be sharpened at home. And make sure you’re invited over for dinner! (Laguiole Jean Dubost Steak Knife Set, $99.95, available at Williams-Sonoma)
Photo: Courtesy of Bosca
A Leather Wallet
When was the last time your father got a new wallet? If it has been a while, now might be the time to get him a new one. And what better to tuck into one of those empty pockets than a wallet-size print of your engagement picture and a note? (Credit Wallet With ID Passcase, $125.00, available at Bosca)
Photo: Courtesy of Woodzee
Cool Shades
For a dad with a sense of style, up his game with some awesome sunglasses. Whether you go for classic aviators or a more modern all-wood pair, he’ll look sharp seated front-row at your outdoor ceremony or during his next round of golf. (Woodzee Palms Sunglasses, $130.00, available at Woodzee)
Photo: Courtesy of Pottery Barn
A Cozy Robe
Even dads love to lounge on weekend mornings, and if your dad’s “coffee and the paper” attire is looking a little tired, give him an update with a new robe and slippers. (Hotel Piped Trim Robe, from $79.00, available at Pottery Barn)