Chances are, there's a wedding on your social calendar this summer. That means you could spend a fair amount of time shopping for just the right gift for the happy couple. These tips should help:

• Respect the couple's gift registry. This way, you can be assured they both will like the gift you give them.
• Whenever possible, ship your gift ahead of the wedding. Try not to hand-deliver your gift to the reception unless it is cash, which should be presented to the bride or groom in person.
• If you receive an invitation, even if you can't attend the wedding, it is expected you will send a gift.
• If you can't bear to buy another toaster, go in on a group gift. Gather a group of friends or family and pitch in for a big-ticket item -- a television, for instance.
• Make it memorable. If you buy a basic gift like a blender, throw in something extra like a recipe for shakes or a set of unusual mugs. Your gift will now have a unique, personal touch.

Reprinted with permission. This article originally ran in The Daily Herald January 28, 2000.