Charity at the Wedding

Once or twice, a bride would ask if it would be okay if they asked people for gifts that aren’t traditional. Instead of linen and china or home gadgets, they would like to ask for donations instead. These gifts would go to benefit a project or organization that the couple has chosen.

Often this is done by a couple who already have almost everything they need. Others are simply souls who have found a calling that they feel is worth the time and effort, even at their own special event - or maybe because of it.

Usually the answer would be that it is crass to ask for money, especially as a wedding gift. NEVER, ever say, “We would prefer gifts of cash”. That would really turn people off and instead of gaining support for this cause that you’ve chosen to sponsor, you may end up with not only a shorter guest list but fewer friends.

There are ways to make the request for sponsorship more acceptable and more interesting to your family, friends and other guests so that they might consider following your lead. To do this, you will need to get creative.

How about using the web to your advantage? Putting up a website about your wedding is very, very easy. Many online services want you to put up your wedding pages with them. Often a portion of the site will be allocated as a bridal registry or wish list. Simply indicate your wish for more sponsors or donations for your pet project at the top of the list. Put a link to where people can find out more about this charity and then let them decide. They need never tell you how much or what they choose to give. Often arrangements can be made so that they simply have to donate under your name. You will still know who they are and can thank them personally for the support.

Second, if you want to use snail mail, please do not include the request with the invitation. Send a separate letter telling them about your pet project. Let them know that instead of a bridal registry that you are choosing to raise funds or collect specific items for your chosen charity and ask if they would like to participate in it as their wedding gift to you. Make sure that they feel under no obligation to do so. Charity is always best when it comes from the heart.

Third, talk about it with your family and friends when you see them before the wedding. Ask them if they think it is a good idea. Just mention it once. Those who are responsive are the ones most likely to indeed give donations. Allow everyone else to do the traditional gift giving. You may be surprised by how many will actually feel that it is a great idea.

Don’t forget: try not to ask for a specific amount per donation. Allow your family and friends to give what they decide they can afford. Allow the amount to stay anonymous. In the end it is enough that you are able to help your chosen recipients without offending your guests.

[tags] wedding,gifts,gift ideas,charity,fund raising, sponsorship [/tags]