Giving a gift shows your appreciation of friends and family who have had significant roles to play in your big day.
These could be the Ushers, your Bridesmaids, Matron of Honour or Best Man (men). You might be generous and want to thank your Celebrant or Minister if the banter was that goodđ.
There is something special about a bouquet or a bottle of good malt. These show you treasure the amount of effort the recipient put in to make your day go smoothly and are undoubtedly a pleasure to receive.
Iâm Schuggie, and I run Schuggies-Ceilidhs (itâs pronounced ShUUg- eee s â Kay-Laes btwđ). Iâve been hosting wedding ceilidhs for over ten years, and that means the experience of well over 120 weddings in all sorts of themes and venues from cosy wee village halls to majestic castles over that time. Donât just take my word for it; check out these reviews over on my PinterestđBoard, you can find them as well on Google My Business and on Facebook (Wedding Ceilidhs).
What about a unique gift that, when used over the years, makes them smile, thinking back to your special day? What about a Quaich (kweix)?
The Quaich is a traditional drinking bowl, and its name derives from Gaelic cuach, simply meaning âcupâ. However, the Quaich is not used for just any drink. The Quaich is reserved for a good old dram of whisky or brandy!
Itâs one of those extraordinary Scottish things, unique in its own right along with Irn Bru, tartan and the holy deep-fried mars bar, of course!
There is a considerable amount of history that you can read online. Bonnie Prince Charlie and Sir Walter Scott are just some of the historical figures that have counted a Quaich amongst their prized possessions.
Of course, you donât need to be Scottish to enjoy giving or receiving them. Thatâs one of the delights that make Quaichs such a unique gift.
Whilst it may sit on the shelf for most of the year, being admired by visitors- you can imagine the story that answers, âOh, whatâs that?â Your story, the memory of your special day and how they were part of it will be some reply.
The owner will undoubtedly use it for special occasions themselves; birthdayâs, St Andrews night, Hogmanay and Burns are most common- and obviously a toast on your anniversary will probably be on the list.
Quaichs come in all shapes and sizes. And all sorts of materials from pewter and ceramic through to glass and wood. The wooden ones are a delight to hold, even the most basic design sings of craftmanship.
Price-wise, they are not dissimilar to a bottle of good malt or a decent bouquet either.
Of course, it is not the value of the gift that counts; itâs the thought that goes into it.
Whilst a Quaich is undoubtedly Scottish, not every Scot owns one. Itâs a gift that symbolises friendship and thought. It shows how valued they are and that feeling comes back every time the Quaich gets used.
Can you imagine giving your bridesmaids a Quaich each, and then they use those as toasts at their wedding. How cool a story does that make?
I own a few, and I wear one on my kilt belt alongside my drinking horn when Iâm out galavanting. Some of mine have been treats to myself, Some are presents, and my most precious is a gift from the Nottingham Scottish Association for the time I spent as their Secretary. It holds a special place in my Highland heart.
Iâve loved giving Quaichs as thank youâs to those who have supported my events over the years. Particularly Burns Suppers where speeches Immortal Memory and the Toasts require a lot of work from those delivering them.
Where do you start looking for these beauts?
If you are lucky enough to live in Scotland, your local kilt shop will be able to help.
For those further afield, then the internet has a wealth of options. Itâs worth shopping around. My go-toâs are the likes of MacIntyres of Edinburgh and Eight Yards.
Both have a great range and reasonable prices.
Finally, if you are struggling for an anniversary present, a wooden Quaich for a fifth, ninth ( if you are in the States) is pottery, so a ceramic Quiaich. What about a Pewter quaich for a tenth anniversary?
Whether the Quaich is a gift or a trophy, youâve chosen a unique vessel that reflects an ancient heritage and your appreciation of the folk receiving it.
Are you looking for fun, unique entertainment at your next party?
Iâm the perfect solution! An award-winning Ceilidh-Caller based in the East Midlands. I specialise in providing high-quality authentic Scottish style (well I am from Inverness in the Highlands of Scotland) ceilidhs with a contemporary twist. With over 10 years of experience, thatâs well over 250 birthdays, anniversaries, retirement parties, Burns Night, St Andrew & Paddys celebrations one Wake and over 120 weddings, so Iâve helped with shed loads of wedding gifts being given out. I know how to make sure everyone has a great time.
Working with some very talented musicians, you can put your trust in me to provide everything from a Ceilidh DJ set with dance instructions right the way through to a bouncing live music ceilidh band more! The talented musical bandit I work with are skilled at playing traditional Scottish instruments like bagpipes, as well as fiddle, drums, accordion, guitar and keyboards and modern ones like electric guitar and bass.
Prices and packages are all upfront here on my website. If there isnât something on my website that fits your needs, just let me know so we can customise a package for you today!
Get in touch today to start planning an unforgettable evening together today!
Click here to book a chat about your ceilidh partyđ”
Every dance called, everyone included â and a full dancefloor all night.