Don’t Want Wedding Gifts? It’s Not Polite to Request “No Gifts”

by Niki in — Updated November 24, 2019 — Reading Time: 2 minutes

According to traditional wedding etiquette rules, it’s impolite for the bride and groom to request that guests do not bring them a wedding gift. Why? Because some guests truly want to provide a gift and feel insulted if it’s not accepted. If you really don’t want guests to spend their money on you, there are a few things you can do.

Couple opening wedding gifts
Photo Source: weddingrepublic.com

Ask for Donations to Charities

On your wedding website, ask that guests make donations to one of your favorite charities rather than bringing a gift. You can create a list of your favorite charities and talk a little bit about each one and why it’s so important to you. Guests can leave a donation in your name as a wonderful gesture.

Donation Wedding Gift
Photo Source: realsimple.com

Don’t Register

Sometimes, if you simply don’t provide individuals with information regarding gifts, they won’t purchase one. Don’t include a link to any registry on your wedding website or anywhere else. This way, if guests insist on bringing a gift, they’ll choose it themselves.

Be Gracious

Finally, if guests actually do bring a gift, you’ll want to be gracious and appreciative. Send out thank you letters, even if just one or two people brought gifts. If guests donated to a charity for you, you’ll still want to send a thank you note, and make sure they understand why their gift meant so much.

Wedding Thank You Cards
Photo Source: bridalmusings.com

Wedding Thank You Card

Overall, there’s not a lot you can do if a guest is determined to bring you something. Simply make alternative suggestions and no matter what happens, be gracious and appreciative.

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