Question about gifts

annhlotr

My husband and I are attending a vow renewal soon. The couple had a date set and were in the middle of planning their wedding when he received orders to go to Afghanistan. They chose to be married before he deployed. He returned home safely, and they are now having a vow renewal. I couldn't find a registry, so I asked them, and they said not to get them a gift- that the day is so they can celebrate with friends and family. Since they told me not to bring a gift, would it be rude to give them one? I was thinking a nice card with either cash or a gift certificate.

Avion22

I think a card is fine, and if you want to do cash or a gift card then that's fine too.   That way they are the only ones who know if the card contains money or not, and other guests won't feel bad (like they might if they see you arrive with a blender or something).  I also think that cash/gift cards are really good gifts for people who don't want/need anything.  It will definitely be put to good use!

TaraKeeley

I agree about never showing up empty-handed. I think the best option is a gift card to a store or restaurant they'll enjoy, placed inside a thoughtfully written card.

Peledreamsofrain

I agree, a card with a monetary gift is very appropriate. Usually the 'no gifts please' thing is a subtle request for cash gifts anyway.

annhlotr

Ok. Thanks. That was my first thought, but I think they're trying to be careful because it's a vow renewal and not a wedding, so I wasn't sure. We're happy for them, and we didn't have a chance to give them a gift before he deployed we know him better than her. If it were a wedding I would assume they want cash, but vow renewals soon after a wedding can be pretty controversial, and I don't know the etiquette.