You thought you were her gift! Well, of course you are — but to commemorate this major event, the beginning of your lives together, you might want to give her something else. It should preferably be something that will stand the test of time, and something that will have some special significance to her.

Drawing a blank on what to give your bride? (Gee, you thought she'd really like those socks you gave her for her birthday, and she acted like she was expecting something more.) Some ideas:.

Jewelry. Give her a pair of earrings that she can wear on your wedding day.

Art. Is she looking for just the right painting to hang in your home?

Furniture. Antiques are a nice touch here — something that has already stood the test of time.

Other ideas that suit her. Is she into gardening? Find a sculpture that will complement her plantings. Picture frames are beautiful and practical (especially since you'll have scores of wedding and honeymoon photos to display). She's really wanted a mink coat for a long time now, hasn't she?

She's already been inundated with household items, so a toaster is definitely not something you should wrap up for her. Avoid grabbing something at the last minute — put some thought into this. And don't give her cash. (For tips on when to spring this gift on her, read Chapter 10.)

If you really want to spoil all of the most important women in your life, go ahead and pick up a gift for your mom — and your mother-in-law, too. You can buy them earrings or watches; they'll also appreciate a picture frame or a hobby-related item. Don't get them the same gift you buy for your bride, and do try to keep the gifts for the mothers in the same price range. Present the gifts from you and your new bride at the rehearsal dinner. This will go a long way toward creating one big, happy family.