Jodi, I would print an enlargement of one of your beautiful photographs, frame it with a nice wide mat, wrap it (in bubble wrap first), and place it over a couple of articles of clothing at the bottom of your suitcase. I'm sure they'd be thrilled to hang it on their wall.

Susan

That's funny because I was going to suggest See's candy. When I went to Japan in '91 I was advised to bring See's candy, a bottle of Crown Royal, and a coffee table book on California for my host family.

For a wedding gift I think that they usually do cash.

What about a California Cuisine cookbook. One with lots of pics?

I am so envious and hope you have a spectacular time! I can't wait to hear about it and see pics!

I like Susan's suggestion of a framed photograph especially since it's something that you have made. But to couple that with naughty kitty's idea of a CA cookbook -how about a book of photographs of the US.? Or to make it even easier - is there any chance that you could purchase something while you're on the ship? Then you wouldn't have to worry as much about packing.

How about a gift card that can be used online? Amazon.com would be a good one.

I emailed my friend who lives in Japan and who has been to the US twice to see if she has any suggestions. If she emails me back I will let you know what she says.

Thanks Lydia!

Taking See's candy to my friends in Japan is a given. They all love it! Along with Johnny Walker Red or Black (can't remember which). Old Spice after shave and baby shampoo (their request) is a favorite as well.

I really love the ideas so far. Keep them coming. I have plenty of people I'll be meeting while in Japan so once the wedding gift is decided on, I'll need general ideas as well.

Jodi-

I have to ask: What's See's candy? And why is it coveted in Japan?

Where do you live Alisande, the moon? :-) J/K

I didn't realize See's was only sold in eleven mostly western states.

I am not a lover of chocolate but See's was a tradition in my family growing up, especially around Christmas. There are See's shops in many of the local malls where you walk in and find a counter with all of the candies to make custom boxes or you can choose from the 1 and 2 pound boxes are piled high around the perimeter of the shop. I love their Nuts and Chews selection.

Jodi-

Here is a link that might be useful: See's Candies

Oh, and why is it coveted in Japan??? Because it's good, of course! :-)

Seriously, it is pretty good, but not expensive like Ethel M or Godiva chocolates.

I took some friends from Japan in there a few years ago and they bought 30 pounds worth! It was almost embarrassing to watch them walk up to the counter! Today, at $15/pound that would be $450 plus tax.

Jodi-

Never heard it the candy, either!

I've never heard of See's candy either. I had to google it.

How funny. I guess I just grew up with it. I thought everyone in the US had See's candy shops.

My grandparents used to buy a 1 lb box for each of us for Christmas. I would always choose the "Nuts & Chews" also. Yum!

I had never heard of it either. I just looked at your link. It looks yummy.

Linda

I adore Mary See's candies. My aunt in Oregon used to send me a box every Christmas. Woody brought me some back from some business trips, too, and a then-KT'er sent me a box a few years ago. Oh, it's good stuff!

Back to the wedding gift- I think I'll have to ponder that, Jodi. I'm almost too tired to think, I know I can't type right now, I got up at 3:30 this morning and I'm pooped. Maybe I'll get an idea in my sleep. lol Oh, wait! How about a set of Bamboo sheets from Target? That would kind of funny/cool!

I love Sees candie. Miss living out West, one of those things we can't get out in the East. ) :

I have no idea what to take to someone in Japan. Years ago, my mom went to visit her family there and took gifts for her family. I don't remember what she took, but she brought back things for all of us, including a Western style tie thing for my dad. I thought that was odd, but my mom said you can buy anything in Japan that you can get in the U.S. I guess that's not totally true, according to the above posts, lol.

Wish I could go with you on your cruise, Jodi! I'm sure you'll take lots of pictures and post them when you get back?

See's candy is my favorite. I didn't realize it wasn't sold everywhere either.

I sent an email off the the bride's dad Tetsuro (my good friend) to see if the wedding couple order online because I kind of like the Amazon.com idea.

I would also take a cookbook and maybe a framed print of one of my photos.

Lydia, did you hear back from your friend?

Jodi-