The Stationers Guild

I have recently seen renewed debate on whether the gift registry should be shown on a wedding invitation.    The simple and correct answer is:  “Of course not!”   Having worked with hundreds of bridal couples to design custom wedding invitations, not one has opted to include a bridal gift registry or URL on their wedding invitation.   It is tacky, offensive and simply poor etiquette.  

Suggesting  a gift or financial contribution on your wedding invitation detracts from the importance of the occasion.  While many argue that it is “convenient” to list a bridal registry on the wedding invitation, convenience is no substitute for good manners and good taste.   Why not just pick up the phone, call the parents or the bridal couple and extend your congratulations and then ask where they are registered.   It is simple, personal and has worked effectively for many years. 

In many situations, bridal couples will send out a save the date announcement which may include travel and accommodation recommendations.  If you plan to establish a wedding website, it is now considered acceptable to include the URL of your website on the save the date announcement or within the supporting wedding papers.  

Some will argue that this protocol or etiquette is old-fashioned.  Quite the contrary, good manners is never out of place.  If we continue to emphasize “convenience” and “efficiency”  in managing our interpersonal relationships, we strip the joy and majesty from these milestone events in our lives.

Sheila P. May
Thérèse Saint Clair