Weddingbee Blog

I’ve heard of couples having weddings cross-country from their current residences who registered at national chains with good return policies. After their wedding they returned all of their gifts before going home, and then purchased them all again with the store credit. That might not be helpful for internationals, though.

I would say if you’re coming from a culture where red envelopes are the norm, run with that, but do gently let the guests who are of other cultures know that you do have a darn good reason. Actually, two darn good reasons.

An alternate plan might be to register at the largest possible chain where you’re living, and hope they have a really good [and ideally bilingual] website.

That is a tough one. The one couple I know in that situation is having a honeymoon registry.

My blogger pal Tiffany actually registered in Italy. Perhaps Suzy can find a store in Asia that is also accessible online for guests in the U.S. This is tough. For the most part, Asia has lots of homegoods already, small living spaces, and different electrical outlets. It’s custom anyway to give money in Asia. I know this is taboo to some, but in this special case, family should just spread word of mouth that they are living in Asia so gifts aren’t necessary and then I think they will get the hint anyway. ie. gift cards, cash.

I wish there was a way to register for flyer miles.

I don’t see the point of registering with the intent of returning gifts. Like Miss Snow Pea suggested, I think the best thing to do is have your family spread the word about cash and gift cards. Easier on you guys and your guests!

I would just utilize the bridemaids and groomsman in this situation. Tell them up front that you aren’t registering at a traditional store because of the shipping and other logistical problems, so instead you are doing a honeymoon registry. Once they know, they usually spread the word for you!

Though I am by no means experienced at this whole wedding planning thing (not engaged), so I’m not sure what is or is not “acceptable”, but if I were to be a guest, I wouldn’t mind being informed of the situation. In fact, I am sure most guests would appreciate being as informed as possible. You can basically explain what you have told us here on a separate paper to go with the invites or a website if you have one. It’s easier to give cash when you understand the needs of the couple. Also, it’s good to know where the cash might go so maybe you can explain that you are in the process of buying a house, or that you have plans to go on a honeymoon later on, etc.

Basically, I think I’d feel better giving cash if 1) I knew the couple needed it and would make good use of it and 2) I knew there it was going to. It’s kind of like making a donation but not knowing what it was for.

ms. kiwi, you are awesome! thank you so much for posting this! and thanks to all who’ve chimed in! you bees are the greatest.

Northwest Airlines offers a frequent fliers miles registry. Check out their website for more info. I tried to post this with the link last week, but the comment was never posted.