Are you planning on giving a gift to a friend, co-worker or family member who has recently been engaged? But you aren't sure what would be an appropriate gift? Then read these suggestions and you will possibly have a better idea of what you could purchase.

First, since an engagement symbolizes the union of two people, you will want to choose a gift that both can use and appreciate together. Typically, after couples are engaged, they will register at a store, so it's a good idea to ask them if they are planning to be registered, and if so where. Many couples also may have an engagement party, so that could be a good time to present them with a gift, but it is certainly not required or expected.

So what are some examples of typical engagement gifts? Well, some of the most common are wall clocks, vases, champagne glasses, martini sets, salt and peppershakers, knives, platters and corkscrews. Also, a frame or a scrapbook would be a great gift for the newly engaged couple.

Since planning for a wedding can be quite a large and difficult task, you may want to consider giving the couple a book on wedding planning, and/or an inspirational type book, that would help them prepare for the married life.

As mentioned already, typically most couples will register when they become engaged, so this gives you a specific idea of what they want for gifts. However, if they don't and you still are confused as to what to give or you want to avoid giving them the same thing as someone else, then you could simply consider giving a gift certificate. Some places where a gift certificate would best be used by the couple would be a bookstore, any store with household gifts and any store specializing in cooking products. If you want to just give the newly engaged couples a romantic night out, then you could simply purchase them a gift certificate for a free meal at a classy restaurant.

Hopefully you have found these ideas to be helpful, and you will consider them in selecting an engagement gift.