The Etiquette for Wedding Invitations & Cash
If you are preparing to marry, then you will want to send out your wedding invitations to guests. But, before you go to the great expense to print and send all those invitations, make sure you are following proper etiquette for wording those invites. One error is to include information on gifts, including cash gifts. Let The Emily Post Institute, named after the late etiquette expert whose words live on through her website, be your guide.
Other People Are Reading
-
Essential Information
-
When in doubt over exactly what to include in a wedding invitation, stick with basic information. Do not mention cash gifts or information about gift choices on the invitation. Instead, answer the following questions: Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How? Also, include RSVP information. "RSVP" comes from the French phrase "Repondez, s'il vous plait" and means "Please repy," according to The Emily Post Institute.
Extra Information
-
You may be tempted to include cash gift information on a separate sheet or card that you tuck into the invitation or envelope. Do not act on that temptation, however. Use a separate sheet or card only for a map and directions, according to Emily Post.
-
Gift Preferences
-
If you have gift preferences for registries or for cash gifts, then you cannot include these preferences on the wedding invitation. It is poor form.
Consequences
-
You may offend your guests if you request cash gifts on the wedding invitation "Wedding invitations that include 'what to buy us' lists turn people off because the emphasis on gifts seems more important than the invitation to join a couple on their special day," according to The Emily Post Institute. Do not include this preference on engagement party invitations or wedding announcements, as well, to avoid offending guests.
Solutions
-
Inform guests of your preference for cash by communicating discreetly through trusted members of your wedding party. Wait until a guest asks about your "wish list," according to The Emily Post Institute. Then, use this formula for responding: "We would be thrilled to receive any gift that came from you. But, we would love gift cards from our registries at xyz stores. Thank you for your thoughtfulness!"
-
References
- Photo Credit Wedding bouquet the bride on background of wedding dress image by Aliaksandr Zabudzko from Fotolia.com
