Let’s face it; today’s bride and groom no longer represent the same couple that existed when wedding traditions were first created. Back then a wedding really did symbolize the start of a union. Nowadays many couples already have a life together before the proposal is even made. So when the wedding comes around many traditions seem a little forced.
One of these traditions is the giving of gifts. Who really needs a silver platter or five toasters? That’s where a honeymoon registry can come into play.
A honeymoon registry is just like a typical gift registry except it’s done online and the gifts are related to the honeymoon. This type of registry typically consists of a web page that shares some details about the honeymoon and allows people to donate toward making it unforgettable. A gift with a honeymoon registry is not a tangible item that eventually gets broken or replaced; it’s a memory that lasts a lifetime.
How to Choose a Honeymoon Registry
To start a honeymoon registry you first need to check out a few different options. While there are many choices out there, the good registries have a few major differences.
The first is that they accept a variety of payment types. The more choices people have to pay, the more successful this option becomes.
Another biggie is that the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau in good standing. As honeymoon registries continue an upward trend, new companies are created all the time, the more established companies all have the better organization and are free of hassle.
Finally, the best offering out there is the lists of who gave what. This makes it easier to track for thank you notes. Some companies will even do that for you!
Honeymoon Registry Benefits
The pros of a honeymoon registry are quite enticing for the couples who already have everything or the couples who really don’t care to have anything. The fact is for many modern couples scuba diving a shipwreck is far more appealing than five tea kettles. They get an experience of a lifetime and don’t need to deal with dozens of returns when they arrive home.
For the friends and family of the couple, giving a part of the honeymoon might seem like a fresh idea. Very few people actually like shopping for wedding gifts. It’s tough. Long-distance gift-giving is even tougher. Having a way to give the gift online is easy. Best of all, they can play a part in strengthening the bond of the newlyweds by giving them a more personalized gift.
Honeymoon Registry Drawbacks
Conversely, this benefit of having a honeymoon registry is also the largest drawback. It is a non-traditional option and that leaves many people wary of the process. Many people really need to give something tangible to make it feel like they are being generous enough to the couple. A honeymoon registry cannot be sold on everyone and if it’s the only gift giving option there will be some fairly miffed invitees.
Another drawback is that most companies (especially the really good ones) take a percentage of the gifts given. These service charges are pretty small, but it’s kind of like a guest giving a Tupperware set and Aunt Sue taking the lid for the smallest container. It really doesn’t matter, but at the same time, it doesn’t seem right!
The best way to combat this is the feel really comfortable with the company that is chosen. If you choose right and follow proper registry etiquette then the turn-out will be great and those fees will be worth it.
One other drawback of a honeymoon registry is that the honeymoon starts to become very pre-planned. When dealing with airfare, hotel reservations and travel documents this is a good thing. However the activities in between can crowd a schedule meant to enjoy your time as newlyweds. It can really take out the spontaneity of the honeymoon. Be sure to plan “free time” along with your dream activities.
Is a Honeymoon Registry for You?
A honeymoon registry is a great alternative for many modern couples. It makes sense to allow people the chance to help enrich the memories you will share for the rest of your life. As long as the company is well-researched and the couple is honest about what they want out of their honeymoon then this type of registry can be an excellent and easy option.
This article was written exclusively for STL Weddings by: Sarah over at Wedding Planning Advice. Sarah not only gives great tips for brides on her blog, she also offers a free wedding planning checklist to keep you organized and on track for the big day.
