Wedding Gift Invitation Etiquette

Broaching wedding gifts on the invitation is a touchy subject for some.

Weddings tend to be entrenched in etiquette rules--rules for wedding gifts (the ones couples should ask for and where they should register) and rules for how the wording on the wedding invitation should go. Etiquette rules even exist for a combination of the two, including gift information on the wedding invitation or in the invitation envelope.

History

According to Peggy Post, one of the queens of etiquette, it is not appropriate for couples to include gift registry information on the wedding invitation or in the envelope it comes in.

Types

While some brides and grooms register for gifts at various stores, others prefer to receive cash gifts. The cash received from the wedding can be used to put toward any of the purchases the couple needs or wants to start their new life together. However, placing a request for cash gifts on or in the wedding invitation is also a big etiquette no-no.

Effects

The reason etiquette says to leave the gifts off the invitation is because it makes the couple look as if they only care about the wedding gifts. Many wedding guests find it tacky when they see gift information on a wedding invitation, and it makes them feel as if the gift takes priority over their attendance at the wedding.

Considerations

If not allowed to put the gift information with the wedding invitation, couples may wonder how they are supposed to let guests know where they are registered or what type of gifts they are hoping for. Gift registries are a word-of-mouth tactic. Brides should make sure that their bridesmaids and families know where they are registered or that they prefer cash gifts. It is up to these members of the wedding to help spread the word.

Solutions

If depending on others is not reliable, there are other ways to spread the word. Many couples build a wedding website to share information online with their wedding guests. According to Peggy Post, a wedding website is an appropriate venue to list wedding gift registry information. Wedding shower invitations can also include gift registry information, since the host of these parties is typically a close family member or member of the bridal party. It is also appropriate to list gift information on a shower invitation because these are gift-giving parties, so invited guests expect to bring a gift and appreciate receiving gift registry information.

References

• Wedding Channel: Ten Biggest Wedding Etiquette Myths