Bridal Etiquette
giving & receiving wedding gifts

Bridal etiquette is not merely knowing how to write thank you notes. When receiving wedding gifts it is not good etiquette to mention them on the wedding invitation. It is appropriate, however, to slip a bridal registry card into the same envelope as the wedding invitation (along with the rsvp note).

At the back of the wedding registry card you can attach a small note, informing your guests, politely letting them know the registry is there for their convenience and they are not to feel obliged to purchase from the registry.

Here an example below; you may want to write this note in a word document and copy and paste the text so it will fit approximately 8 notes to a page. Cut them up and staple the small note at the back of the registry faced outward, so your guest does not need to flip it over.

Dear guest There's no obligation to buy a gift from the bridal registry. As you are a valued guest at our wedding, your company is all that is requested. We have selected a few items from this store to make it easy for guests who may want to buy a gift and do not have the time to shop, this service is available for your convenience. Your Sincerely (bride & grooms name) Please note; this example is only a suggestion and for those of you who are conscious about what to do about gift receiving and wedding registries.

The Bridal Registry

If you choose to have a bridal registry, pick a reputable store that is available in most towns, as it is easier for your guests to get to. The registry needs to be convenient for your wedding guests.

A Honeymoon Registry

If you have a honeymoon registry, let your guests know by word of mouth or via wedding website. The goal of any wedding reception is to celebrate the union of two people with love and goodwill. There is no polite way of asking for cash gifts. There is also no way of making `money trees' and other cash-showing gimmicks, classy. They can appear a little tacky and should be avoided. Gifts are a privilege not a right.

When Giving Gifts

Some guests will still prefer to give a tangible gift, so having wedding or bridal registry information available is advisable. Guests who wish to give cash instead of a present should do so at their own discretion. There is no formula for this but it has been suggested that cash or gift should be equivalent to the value of a plate at the reception.

When Sending Invitations

Before sending out your wedding invitations, with regards to wedding etiquette, be absolutely specific in the invitations. Find out the names of partners and spouses of people you wish to invite and get them right. This means a phone call. This is also the ideal time to inform your guests of your policy towards inviting children, dates for unwed guests and even gifts registries or cash gifts.

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