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Traditional registries still remain a popular option for wedding gifts. These registries are offered to couples for free or at little cost through department stores like Macy's, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom, as well as specialty stores such as Bed, Bath and Beyond. These registries allow wedding guests to view a wish list designed by the couple and choose what items to purchase. Some of these stores offer complimentary gift wrapping or shipping. Wedding gifts can also be shipped directly to the couple, which is a convenience to those guests who cannot attend the wedding itself but still wish to honor the occasion.
Material gifts commonly found on traditional registries include china, bar ware, cooking utensils, plates, glasses, silverware, pots and pans, bed clothes and bath items such as towels. These gifts are much appreciated and often preferred by young couples who are planning on purchasing a house or have not lived together. - Alternative registries provide an opportunity for couples to request and receive a wide variety of nontraditional gifts. While these registries are also Internet-based, they allow users to register for gifts from all over the web, not just one specific store. These registries also allow for nonmaterial gifts. Donations to charity, prayers, home-cooked meals, guest-created artwork or songs and roles in the wedding ceremony itself such as providing music or flowers are all options when creating this unique type of registry. Some couples choose this option in order to cut costs and also create a "green" ceremony, ensuring that many of the goods needed for the wedding are found locally. Creative and fun options abound on these websites. Some couples even request that guests bring their favorite recipes as a gift, to be compiled into a cookbook.
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kenyaodyssey.comHoneymoon registries are a popular option for those couples who are older, or for second marriages and those who have already been living together for some time. Traditional gifts like china, bed linens or cookware may hold little appeal in these situations, as these couples are likely to already own these items. With the cost of today's wedding already quite high, contributions toward the couple's honeymoon might be the best gift of all.
On honeymoon registries, users are able to enter the itinerary for their honeymoon and related costs, such as airfare, dinners and accommodations. Then, with the expenses broken down into various denominations, family and friends can contribute to the activity or travel necessity they prefer. This money is then forwarded to the couple, often through a PayPal account. Some guests find that helping newlyweds create a special, lasting memory is the best gift of all. - Traditionally wedding showers are thrown for the bride by her mother, her maid of honor and bridesmaids, or both. Invitations may include registry information for the bride-to-be, or where the couple has registered may be passed along via word of mouth. As it's considered poor manners for the bride herself to put the information in her formal wedding invitation or even a mass email, the bride's mother and maid of honor should be asked about gift preferences. Traditionally, the bride opens all her gifts at these showers, and guests enjoy seeing what the bride and her groom have received.
- Some couples don't register for gifts at all. In that case, if a guest still wishes to honor the wedding with a gift, it might be best to review what you know about the couple. Do they enjoy dinner out or a stroll around the museum or zoo? Are they fans of the local teams? Are they movie buffs? Gift certificates or memberships can help newlyweds enjoy these hobbies and spend quality time together.
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Some of the best and most meaningful wedding-gift ideas come from various cultures. For example, Armenian tradition is to have the phrase "May you grow old on one pillow" embroidered on a pillow case or other items. The Dutch traditionally make wedding "wish trees," in which each guest writes a wish for the newly married couple and ties it to a small tree or plant. Italians are known for giving Jordan almonds to mark a wedding. Ducks and geese are Korean symbols of trust and loyalty; dishes or blankets featuring these animals make for a great symbolic gift. Honoring the ethnic roots of the couple might be a great way to provide a unique gift.
And if you're still stuck, remember, cash always fits.
