Money - ‘To ask or not to ask, that is the question!' According to traditional wedding etiquette the answer was definitely ‘No'. But times have changed and now giving money is sensible and practical, and there are convenient online ways to do it. Not so long ago, a newly married couple needed a bridal shower and wedding gifts to help them set up their own home. But today, many people marry later when they are already well set up with household goods and there may be little that they need. Also, couples are often paying for the wedding themselves so the idea of receiving money to help with expenses, or the honeymoon can be much more appealing than having a second (or third!) toaster. But is there a polite way of asking for money instead of receiving gifts? In the past wedding gifts of any kind were never mentioned in an invitation as that would imply that a guest was required to give a present. With the passage of time it has become accepted practice for couples to arrange a gift registry at a department store listing needed items to help guests select a suitable present. It was only a short step to give money. Money is a gift that most people are willing to give as well as receive. And giving money rather than an actual gift is the norm in many cultures. With the advent of the Internet, online gift registries such as OurWishingWell.com have become a popular way for the bride and groom to let people know what they would like to receive - including cash. This practical and convenient online solution is changing wedding etiquette. The bride and groom can list items that they would like to have on their online registry. Some gifts may be too expensive for one guest. OurWishingWell.com provides a way for several guests to contribute to a large, significant gift that would not be feasible for a single guest. The online gift registry is convenient for guests as they do not have the stressful and time-consuming task of shopping for a suitable gift, and spending money unnecessarily on wrapping and postage. The bottom line is that although requests for money may be a somewhat delicate subject for some, it is a practical and acceptable option for many. An online registry enables requests for money to be made with sensitivity. |