Jewish/Orthodox Moms - Suggestions for Engagement Gift??

[annasmom]

I apologize in advance if this is a naive question. My nanny (whom I love) just got engaged this past weekend. She is Orthodox, and some family friends are hosting an engagement party for the happy couple this coming Sunday. We are invited, but more than likely will be unable to attend (I am on bedrest). I was wondering if someone could help me with suggestions for an appropriate engagement gift. And, perhaps while your at it, for wedding gift suggestions as well since she is getting married in September. I am almost positive that she will have a shower as well, so I am hoping at some point that she registers for some gifts.

Is money an appropriate gift? And if so, how much? Thanks so much!!

[emmiem]

Generally if you give money, you give in increments of 18. Chai is the 18th letter of the Hebrew aleft bet and also stands for good luck. Sabbat candles, challah plate and knife, tzedakah boxes, are all good examples of good gifts. If you don't have a Judaica shop nearby, there are tons of resources online.
Michele

[cara1]

If you are not Jewish, I don't think they would expect a Jewish-y gift from you. Either money or any other engagement gift you'd buy for anybody else should be fine.

[Piglet]

Generally money in $18 increments is great - 18/36/54/72/etc. I would agree with the suggestion of Judaica, but would probably recommend a gift certificate if possible. We received SO many duplicates when we got married - I had 6 challah knives, 3 covers, etc.

Here is a popular Jewish publisher(Artscroll) that lets you order GCs online - http://www.artscroll.com/gift.html

Here is an all-purpose Jewish website - http://www.judaism.com/certif.asp

Another one -
http://www.alljudaica.com/detail.asp?bid=1371&catid=20030

And yet another...
http://www.jewishsource.com/search.asp?SKW=07GiftCertificates&CAT=Gift+Certificates

No matter what you choose, I am sure she would be thrilled that you have put so much thought into her gift.

[erosenst]

I agree with the money and multiples of $18. One more thing to add - if it's around the amount you would usually spend on the gift, $36 is a particularly nice/symbolic number for an engagement gift, as it's "double chai".

Gift certificates are always nice as well.

[Tori_s mom]

I'd say definitely money would be appropriate especially since you are on bedrest! The links listed are excellent sources as well. How sweet of you to ask. :)