Particularly for destination weddings, it is a nice idea to register for wedding gifts in advance. This gives your guests some no-brainer options (which they most often appreciate) for your wedding gift and also ensures that you don’t end up with things that you just don’t need. It also offers them the option of having gifts sent directly to you at home, so that neither of you have to lug them along to your destination wedding far away.
Nowadays so many couples live together prior to the wedding and have already set up a home. This actually makes it tougher for your guests to know “what to give”. So, do them a favor and shop in advance for your own gifts by registering online with your favorite retailer. Registering online is easy and fun – afterall you are shopping without spending $$
Be sure to include information on your registries (yes, you can sign up for more than one) in your invitations (and don’t forget usernames and passwords if needed) *and* on your wedding website! (I can’t stress enough how invaluable wedding websites are)
… Here are a few ideas/suggestions for some alternative registry options as well:
> Honeymoon Registries
A growing trend, particularly for couples who ALREADY have two toasters and plenty of blenders. We like Traveler’s Joy Honeymoon Registry. You simply set up an account, choose your options and guests can help to fund your parasailing, jet skiing and dining delights.
Why we like it: They have one of the lowest fees in the industry at 7.5%; no set up fee and no guest fee. What this means is that you will not be charged anything to set up the account, your guests won’t be charged anything, but when you cash out for your honeymoon Traveler’s Joy will keep $7.50 of every $100 for their services. Not bad, right?!
Tips to make your honeymoon go smoothly from Traveler’s Joy Honeymoon Registry
*Hot Tip* :: Have an Island-themed “Jack & Jill” shower to get in the Destination Wedding mood and let your guests know in advance that you have a honeymoon registry! This is also a great way to celebrate with friends and loved ones who may not be able to make the trip.
> Be Charitable
Some couples simply have enough “stuff” and don’t really want more nor do they want their guests to feel obligated to purchase anything for them. However, some guests really feel compelled to offer a gift of some sort, so why not support a charitable cause that you feel strongly about? The I Do Foundation is an EXCELLENT resource. You can set up a registry here offering an easy way for your guests to celebrate your new life together with the cause of your choice. The website is also full of ideas for ways to be more charitable and eco-consious in all of your wedding planning.
Another great idea: Make a charitable donation INSTEAD of favors at your wedding and then print a note on placecards.
Example: In June of 2009, SunCelebrities Rose & Jeff, both physicians, got married here on St Croix. On the table were place cards with guests’ names and a note: In lieu of favors we have made a donation to ‘Doctors without Borders’. Classy.
The pineapple has long been a symbol hospitality. Sea Captains in New England would bring them home after sailing to the Caribbean and set them out on their gateposts to signal that they were home safe and ready to share gifts of tropical fruit and rum along with their sea-faring tales.