Since being engaged, my senses are heightened to anything and everything wedding related. It's like when you're about to turn sixteen and all of a sudden you're strangely aware of every car you see. At least that's how I was. 

This season of engagement is so sweet but also fleeting. I know I'll blink and it will be over, so that's why stacks of The Knot and Martha Stewart Weddings are threatening to take over my coffee table. I love soaking it all in while it still applies to me. 

Something I've noticed is that there are some really amazing gifts out there for soon-to-be-brides but they're not necessarily practical and definitely don't belong on a registry list. A lot of times though, the gifts that aren't the most practical or the ones you would buy for yourself are the best to receive.  

Here's a gift guide for the bride-to-be in your life from a bride-to-be that wouldn't hate it if someone showed up to a shower with one of these.

1. It's becoming pretty popular to take getting ready pictures the morning of the wedding and typically the bride can be seen in a robe with "Mrs." embroidered on the back. Not going to lie, that's just not my scene. This robe is stunning though and would be beautiful to wear wedding morning getting ready and every morning to come. 

2. I love this beautiful ring dish to put your engagement ring in. Unique but timeless. 

3. A classic tote with her new initials monogrammed. I love the discreet size of the monogram and the gold foil that Madewell offers. 

4. This dishtowel is so cute it hurts. Perfect hanging on the oven for the first year of marriage. I can see it now...

5. A lot of wedding books I've looked at are outdated and not very helpful. This one is packed with good ideas and inspiring images. Perfect gift for a recently engaged friend.