The Pros and Cons of Exchanging Wedding Morning Gifts with Your Soon-to-Be Spouse

brides exchanging Tiffany Co. wedding gifts
brides exchanging Tiffany Co. wedding gifts

J. Harper Photography

Despite a tight budget, you two managed to save enough to buy each other wedding-day gifts. Whether you got each other heirloom-worthy gifts—like a fancy watch, a gold bracelet, or a pair of diamond earrings—or chose more casual items—like wireless headphones for the honeymoon flight or an Italian leather wallet your partner has been eyeing—you've got to figure out the right time to do the exchange. Are you thinking you'll do it the morning of the wedding? Take a look at these pros and cons of an A.M. exchange.

Related: The Sweetest Cards to Give Your Soon-to-Be Spouse on the Morning of the Wedding

Pro: It starts the day off right.

You kick off the greatest day of your life by exchanging tangible reminders of your love. You could be traditional and have the maid of honor deliver your present to him while the best man delivers his gift to you, or you could meet up early and exchange gifts in person. It's like a first look with presents! Another option is wait until the actual first look. Be sure to ask a responsible person to carry your goodies to a safe spot like your hotel room once the exchange is over.

Con: There's already enough going on.

If you're getting married in the afternoon, the morning tends to be hectic—bouquets get delivered, the bridal party is having their hair and makeup done, and the photographer is busy snapping away. Simply put, you may not find a quiet moment to give each other your presents.

Pro and Con: You get to cross it off your lengthy to-do list.

Depending on how you look at it, this is either a pro or a con. If you're the type of person who wants to soak up every special moment related to the wedding, exchanging gifts on the morning before the wedding might not be best. Instead, carve out a few minutes the night before or even the wedding night when you're more relaxed and can appreciate the moment. On the other hand, if you are eager to check items off your to-do list and get right to the party, a wedding-morning gift exchange might be just right.