wedding gifts you really


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MSN Money - Get the wedding gifts you really want MSN Home My MSN Hotmail Shopping Money People & Chat Sign In W eb Search: Money S earch MSN Money: Help Home News Banking Investing Planning Taxes My Money Portfolio Loans Insurance Planning Home Retirement Savings Insurance Family/College Resources Decision Centers Commentary Index More Tools Related Links My Accounts Message Boards Print-friendly version Send this to a friend Get market news by e-mail See if refinancing works Personal finance bookshelf Find It! Article Index Finance Q&A Tools Index Site map Related Sites Association of Bridal Consultants The Honeymoon Casa de Oro Travel wedding registry Honeymoonforyou.com HoneyLuna.com The Basics Get the wedding gifts you really want advertisement Traditional registries can prevent you from getting 5 identical bun warmers. But some couples really want camping gear, home down payments or honeymoon contributions. What would Miss Manners say? By MP Dunleavey It's relatively rare these days for people to get married right after graduating from college. The average age for first marriage among women has risen steadily to more than 25, from less than 21 in 1970; for men, the average is now more than 27. My fianc and I were about a decade or so past our mid-20s when we got married recently, and like a lot of people, we had accumulated a lot of stuff during our unmarried years. The last thing we wanted was more stuff. At least that's how we felt when we considered doing the standard newlywed thing: i.e. registering for china, linens, monogrammed silver, matching PDAs and a small, well-behaved child. Nah. What we wanted, more than anything, given the stress of modern wedding planning, was to go lie on a beach somewhere and pretend we were still happily dating. Don't let retirement sneak up on you. Create a perfect plan. But like most couples we found the cost of the wedding taxing enough -- even though our parents did pay for most of it. There was no way we could afford a honeymoon, too. So we got this crazy idea. If our loved ones would be willing to shell out for glassware and new pots, would it be terrible -- crass, rude, self-serving -- to ask for contributions toward what we really wanted? Financial wedding etiquette To be honest, I've never liked the idea of a traditional registry. No matter how fancy the store (or your china pattern), you're basically telling guests what to buy you. Miss Manners, aka Judith Martin, pointed out in a recent column that commercial gift registries used to be kept ONLY in the event that customers inquired about a bride's china or silver pattern. Now, she says, all sentiment is being stripped from the gift-giving tradition. People turn to registries, she says, "to put generosity under the control of its beneficiaries." And, she concludes sternly: "These practices are no less vulgar for having become commonplace." Her point is well-taken. Some couples seem to equate "getting married" with "shopping spree" and use the registry system to shamelessly upgrade every item in their home. On the other hand, there is a financial reality that cannot be avoided. Custom dictates that a gift must be bought, so for most people the financial sanity (and sheer convenience) of bridal registries outweighs the inherent crudeness of this system. Guests don't waste their money buying gifts couples don't want or can't use. Couples get what they need, so they don't have to buy it themselves. Stuff -- who needs it? Increasingly, says Peggy Post, author of "Emily Post's Wedding Etiquette by Peggy Post", many couples would rather skip the stuff anyway. "So many couples come to the marriage with so many things," she says, noting that 40% of marriages are "encore," i.e. repeat, unions, for one or both partners. "These days you see people registering for all kinds of non-traditional items." Among them: camping gear, a down payment for a house, stock certificates and, yes! . . . the honeymoon. According to the Association of Bridal Consultants (see link at left), a wedding guest will spend an average of $85 on a gift. The average cost of a honeymoon is about $4,000. If a couple has no need for flatware and linens, why not encourage guests to contribute to a honeymoon registry like thehoneymoon.com, casadeorotravel.com, honeymoonforyou.com or honeyluna.com? Guests can contribute to airfare, romantic dinners, massages, picnics, guided tours, etc. To drool over a sample registry for a honeymoon in Hawaii, click on the link at left under Honeymoonforyou.com. For one in Greece, click at left under HoneyLuna.com. And to send in contributions for my honeymoon, click . . . oh, never mind. The etiquette of alternative registries Peggy Post, the great-granddaughter-in-law of Emily Post, thinks using these offbeat registries can be fine "with a big IF attached." Here's some guidance: 1) Wait until you're asked. It's impolite (and annoying) to include a card announcing where you're registered. Wait for guests to inquire, and let the word spread discreetly through friends and family. "Let your parents, siblings, wedding party and close friends know -- IF they've asked," suggests Bobbie Izeman, a bridal consultant and advice columnist for blushing-brides.com. "But don't announce it in a formal way." 2) Do not dictate. As Miss Manners points out, a gift, above all, is a gift. It is not up to you to decide what your guests should give, no matter how badly you want contributions to your down payment, help with your airfare or even traditional items like cookware. "You should leave your guests the option to give you what they want," agrees Post. 3) Say thank you. It may seem obvious, but sending a prompt, enthusiastic thank you note -- for every gift, no matter what the gift -- is essential. "The key thing is to remember to be appreciative," says Post. The honeymoon fund Since we didn't know about these honeymoon registries a few months ago, my fianc and I set up our own impromptu "honeymoon fund." We made a small gaffe by alluding to it in the instruction sheet for our weekend wedding (oops!), but it was in the context of asking guests please not to give presents. Apparently, that is also a faux pas (eek!), but we hadn't consulted all these etiquette experts then. To our surprise, a small number of friends (and a couple of relatives) protested. They wanted to get us A Real Gift. I can say with some relief that at least we handled that properly -- encouraging people to give whatever sort of gift they wanted. And they did. We got a lovely mix of gifts and honeymoon fund contributions. Just enough so that we can restore our sanity on some sandy shore -- without going into a penny of debt. What greater wedding gift could there be? Editor's Choice 3 legal papers you can't live without Your own business, your tax shelter Brush: The 5 most overpaid CEOs Are seniors gambling away retirement? Cut your taxes by going solar Readers' Choice Ratings Top 5 Articles 9.34 Zombie debt collectors dig up your old mistakes 9.33 10 ways to stop identity theft cold 9.31 10 ways to avoid outrageous hospital overcharges 9.22 The tricks and traps of debt consolidation 9.17 Safeguard your Social Security number View all top rated articles More Resources · E-mail us your comments on this article · Post on the Your Money message board · Get a daily dose of market news S earch MSN Money tips advertisement MSN Money's editorial goal is to provide a forum for personal finance and investment ideas. 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Gifts For Men Articles
Christmas Gifts For Men - Gifts BW gifts | gifts Resources | Add URL Wine Gifts & Baskets From the casual wine drinker to the serious enthusiast, we have a gift that will make them smile. Our selection includes premium wine, gourmet baskets, distinctive champagne sets & the very finest California and Northwest wines. Christmas Gifts For Men Articles Christmas Gifts on a Budget Everyone loves to give a beautiful gift, if budget concerns are stopping you, think again. Find load of free patterns and directions for making gifts for men, women, children and everyone on your gift list here....( Continue Reading ) gifts to make for men fathers day christmas gift Use many creative techniques and supplies to make a variety of gifts for that special guy on your list....( Continue Reading ) Christmas Gifts for the Low Fat Cook Wondering what to buy the low fat cook in your household? Or are you looking for ideas for yourself? Check my Top 10 kitchen gadgets or my Top 5 low fat cookbooks. Time is running out, so you?d better hurry!......( Continue Reading ) Sewing for Holidays And Occasions Here you'll find projects and gift sewing ideas for all kinds of holidays....( Continue Reading ) Christmas Gift Guide: For Him under $100, Christmas Gifts for Men, Father, Dad, Brother, Boyfriend, Husband Christmas Gift Guide: For Him under $100...( Continue Reading ) Christmas Gifts For Men Directory Links bicycle baskets gifts for family ideas for engagement gifts 25th birthday gifts practical baby gifts personalized gifts for him promotion gifts easy to make christmas gifts gifts ideas for him wedding attendent gifts easter gifts to make wine and country gifts traditional and modern anniversary gifts shower hostess gifts gifts for women unique personalized gifts recipe gifts in a jar gag gifts for 50th birthday gifts for retirement valentines gifts for her gifts for teens christmas homemade gifts traditional wedding gifts gifts for valentines christmas crafts gifts romantic gifts men holiday food gifts easter baskets for children cheap gifts for men really cool gifts sailor moon animated gifts personalized gifts for children good anniversary gifts all occasion gift baskets special occasions and christmas gifts orlando gift baskets gifts for man wedding anniversary gifts by year fathers day gifts to make southwest gift baskets valentines day gifts to india 60th anniversary gifts gift baskets in new york city catholic first communion gifts baby shower party gifts Popular Search Terms: Gifts BW © 2004 Gifts BW All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All Rights Reserved. This site is not related to Brajeshwar or Brajeshwar.com in anyway, shape or form
Gifts for Women --
-- -- Gifts for Women( J. Countryman ) | Thomas Nelson, Inc. - Publisher of Christian Books, Videos, Software, Bibles and Children's Books Thomas Nelson, Inc. - Publisher of Christian Books, Videos, Software, Bibles and Children's Books Search: Title   Author ISBN Style# MM/DD/YY -- -- Books | Bibles | Kids | Teens | Reference | Gift Books | Tech Support | FAQ's | Contact Us -- Gifts for Women -- Simple Suggestions for a Sensational Life Paula White Hardcover In her characteristically upbeat style, New York Times best-selling author, Paula White, shares insight and wisdom for developing a life that soars above the ordinarya sensational life lived by Gods rules in Gods way. 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Long more | buy now -- :: Hardcover Women of Faith Prayer Journal - Lana Bateman more | buy now -- :: Hardcover "1118000" AND -- -- J. Countryman Home About J. Countryman Contact Us Join Our E-mail List Our Authors FAQs Bestsellers Coming Soon Gifts for Women Just for Mom Gifts for Men Gifts for Teens Gifts For All Occasions Friendship Baby/New Mom Love/Weddings Journals/Planners Devotionals Business Fiction Graduation More Than Music God's Promises I Celebrate You Women of Faith® Max Lucado Chris Shea Karla Dornacher John Maxwell Charles Swindoll News Investor Relations About Nelson Catalogs Employment Store Finder Directory of Sites Business Resources Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | ©2005 Thomas Nelson, Inc.| TN E-Mail
Jewelry Gift
Jewelry, Gifts, & Housewares - Drysdales has your denim and western wear covered. Jeans/Denim Shirts Boots Casual Shoes Belts Buckles Outerwear Big & Tall Riata Vests Leather Underwear Neckwear Wallets Formal Western Wear Partners & Couples Jeans/Denim Shirts Boots Casual Shoes Belts Buckles Outerwear Vests Leather/Fur Plus Sizes Sweats/Sweaters Underwear/P.J.'s Partners & Couples Accessories Boys Jeans/Denim Boys Shirts Boys Belts Girls Jeans/Denim Girls Shirts Girls Belts Boots Youth Workshirts Outerwear Partners Infant & Toddler Fun Stuff Mens Boots Mens Casual Shoes Womens Boots Womens Casual Shoes Childrens Boots Accessories Straw - Adult Straw - Children Felt - Adult Felt - Children Caps - Adult Knit Hats Accessories Browse By Brand Men's Wear Women's Wear Children's Wear Footwear Hats For The Horse Organizations- NBHA PBR NFR Jewelry, Gifts, Housewares Western DVD & VHS Monogramming Clearance Items Gift Certificates Helpful Links Unlisted Items Email Specials Current Catalog Request Catalog Retail Stores Help Contact US Site Map Home | View Basket | Checkout | Order History | Login 1-800-444-6481 -- Men | Women | Children | Footwear | Hats | Shop All Departments View Logo Products John Deere NBHA PBR NFR PHBA Jewelry, Gifts, & Housewares HOUSE AND BARN TABLE AND BAR WARE BLANKETS, THROWS AND PILLOWS AUTO JEWELRY WESTERN STATUES BUCKLES WALLETS Site Map | Customer Service | Privacy & Security Order By Phone 1-800-444-6481 | Contact Customer Service 1-800-608-9800 Drysdales, since 1981, has brought you fashion and classic western wear. Our catalog carries a wide selection of western wear from major manufacturers such as Levi's and Wrangler. Our western clothing line extends from cowboy boots and cowboy hats to vintage shirts and the latest in fashion. All contents 2004 Drysdales, Inc.
College Gift
Skidmore College - Gift Planning - Life Income - More Gift Options Search | Calendar | A-Z Index Thu Sep 22 5:37 PM EDT Skidmore Home | Admissions | Current Students | Faculty & Staff | Parents & Friends | Alumni Wills and Bequests Life Income Gifts More Gift Options Breaking News To Honor Donors Bring Legacy to Life! Scribner House Contact Our Staff Gift Planning Home STANDARD MAIL 815 North Broadway Saratoga Springs, New York, 12866 GIFT PLANNING PHONE 518-580-5655 E-MAIL CONTACT Gift Planning Gift Planning More Gift Options Assets such as life insurance policies and real estate holdings can provide unique opportunities to fulfill a philanthropic goal of helping Skidmore educate students. Life insurance gifts generally permit a donor to make a significant commitment at a relatively small cost, and there are several methods available, including the simple act of adding Skidmore College or another charitable interest as a beneficiary on the policy. Similarly, real estate holdings may be used in strikingly cost-effective ways to fund substantial gifts. One very attractive option enables a person to donate a residence, retain the right to live in and enjoy the property for life, and receive immediate tax savings. To learn more about these types of gift planning options, click the following links and feel free to call or email our office directly. links: Gifts Using Life Insurance Gifts Using Real Estate Bring Legacy to Life! Philanthropy Legacy Security The Office of Gift Planning urges donors to consult their legal and other professional advisors when considering charitable gift giving. Our staff is always pleased to work directly with donors and their advisors during the process. Creative Thought Matters. Skidmore College · 815 North Broadway · Saratoga Springs, NY · 12866 Skidmore College Main Links ©2005 Skidmore College · Contact Information Skidmore Home | Admissions | Current Students | Faculty & Staff | Parents & Friends | Alumni