Painting by Sharis DeJaynes- Zatisa Artist

It’s no secret that many (maybe even most) couples live together before they tie the knot. This means that the acquisition of flatware, plates, and vases is often set aside in favor of more creative wedding bounty, ranging from honeymoon registries to cash donations.  Whether you’re trying to decide what to ask for on your wedding registry or scratching your head about what to get your Cousin Al as a wedding present, original art could be the answer.

Recently married, I was more than pleased when several of my friends opted to give us beautifully framed photographs and original wall art for our new apartment. Over the mantle hangs a gorgeous shot of our hometown landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. Next to my desk, a black and white architectural shot is displayed, a gift from my sister-in-law. Just outside of the kitchen, an original painting of the Napa Valley (courtesy of Aunt June) welcomes all who dare to cook in our oh-so-small galley. Every time I look around our apartment, I see hints of the beautiful friendships that my husband and I have been blessed with over the past several years.

If you want to buy art for a newly married friend or family member, it doesn’t have to be an ordeal. As you browse through the original paintings and contemporary wall art on Zatista, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do your friends prefer original paintings, art prints, or photographs? If you’re not sure, take notice of what your friends currently choose to hang in their homes and offices.

• Is there a particular color or tone that the couple enjoys? Use the couple’s wedding colors as a jumpstart to get you brainstorming.

• Does the couple enjoy a specific theme? For example, my husband and I like original photographs that have a California feel. If you’re unsure of what your friends might want, feel free to ask the couple what subjects they’d prefer.

If you’d like your friends and family members to consider giving you original art as a wedding gift, make sure to let potential gift givers know what mediums you prefer. Create a Zatista profile that highlights your favorite pieces so that your friends and family members can get a better idea of what you’re interested in owning.