wedding gifts you really

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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Jewelry Gift Box Articles

Jewelry Gift Box - Jewelry IS jewelry | jewelry Resources | Add URL Buy Jewelry Online We offer better selection and lower prices. Our wide ranging product selection, gives you more choices and more opportunities to find that perfect special something. Jewelry Gift Box Articles Jewelry Boxes - Unique Jewelry Boxes - Jewelry Gift Ideas There's nothing plain or ordinary here--these unique jewelry boxes are perfect for people who prefer to break away from everyday storage solutions in favor of a more individual, stylized look. The good news is that unique doesn't always equal expensi...( Continue Reading ) Jewelry Boxes for Kids - Children's Jewelry Boxes and Music Boxes Little girls love jewelry boxes, and this collection has some really cute ones. I think you'll be able to find a unique jewelry box for that special little girl....( Continue Reading ) Mini Gift Giving Box Cynthia submitted these instructions for making a fun gift box from an egg carton....( Continue Reading ) Making Pulls Without Hardware Using A Cove Bit This tip from the Router Workshop centers around making concealed drawer and door pulls using a cove router bit. This is a technique I used last summer on the lid of a jewelry box I was making as a gift.......( Continue Reading ) Making Pulls Without Hardware Using A Cove Bit - Woodworking Archives Making Pulls Without Hardware Using A Cove Bit - This tip from the Router Workshop centers around making concealed drawer and door pulls using a cove router bit. This is a technique I used last summer on the lid of a jewelry box I was making as a gif...( Continue Reading ) Jewelry Gift Box Directory Links shane jewelry company jewelry district bead jewelry projects men diamond rings bead jewelry supplies display cases jewelry international jewelry exchange wedding and rings love rings beach jewelry monogrammed silver jewelry jewelry manufacturer erwin pearl jewelry zales jewelry stores antique reproduction rings josten school rings cherokee indian jewelry fine jewelry store gold filled jewelry discount sterling silver jewelry gold rings black pearl jewelry copper jewelry findings jewelry making suppliers jewelry display boxes wedding band jewelry jewelry stores indianapolis italian silver jewelry creative wedding rings platinum and diamond jewelry discount tongue rings celtic friendship rings metal cock rings jewelry designer south american jewelry jewelry mens professional wrestling rings darice jewelry designer acrylic jewelry display antique filigree rings jewelry collection vintage avon jewelry turquoise silver jewelry french antique jewelry fine estate jewelry Popular Search Terms: Jewelry IS © 2004 Jewelry IS 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

groomsmen gifts - for

Groomsmen Gifts - For the Bridal Party groomsmen gifts shop by : FAVOR IDEAS | PERSONALIZED | SHOWER FAVORS | WEDDING DECORATIONS | PACKAGING | SILVER | PLACECARD HOLDERS | CANDLES home > theme wedding favors > groomsmen gifts - for the bridal party groomsmen gifts - for the bridal party Your bridal party consists of some of the most important people in your life. Groomsmen have been there for you through the years and together, you have created numerous precious memories. As you prepare for your wedding day, your best man and groomsmen have been there every step of the way, helping you with both big and small decisions. To show your appreciation, be creative in your gift giving. Find gifts that have special meaning or reflect the way you feel about your groomsmen. Your groomsmen will be touched by your thoughtfulness. Below, you will find a selection of truly unique and high quality gifts for your bridal party . personalized poker sets $42.95 engraved wine box $29.95 wedding day cufflinks $30 engraved leather flask, $34 monogrammed cufflinks, $24 engraved sport watch, $30 personalized wine gift sets, $29 sterling silver trophy $45 engraved square cufflinks, $24 letter openers $18 professional poker kit with personalized case $99.95 monogram money clip wallet, $14 personalized beach bags, $35 kindness paperweights $25 party planner program | press center | contact info | security & privacy | wedding supplies | site map wedding supplies and favors | wedding decorations , personalized wedding favors , asian weddings , wine parties , holiday decorations , glass & crystal favors , golf wedding favors , corporate gifts , bridesmaid's gifts , groomsmen gifts , cookies party favors , silver wedding supplies , place card holders , candles , sachets , wedding supplies , wedding favor ideas wedding themes and ideas : wedding ideas , what type of bride are you? , why wedding favors? , personalized wedding favor ideas , fall wedding favor ideas , favor presentation ideas , wedding themes , bridal shower themes contact Beaucoup Wedding Favors at 1-877-988-BEAU (2328) or info@beau-coup.com

Shower Gifts Articles Top

Best Baby Shower Gifts - 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. Best Baby Shower Gifts Articles Top Baby Shower Gifts I recommend these great baby shower gifts to anyone who's looking for ideas when they attend their next baby shower....( Continue Reading ) Baby Shower Gifts, Prenatal Testing Baby Shower Gifts, Prenatal Testing Robin's Nest Newsletter...( Continue Reading ) Top Baby Gift Sets Give the gift of a complete set and the parents will thank you! Whether it's a two-piece pants set or a sweater with matching hat, baby will look coordinated and cute in a special outfit....( Continue Reading ) Baby Shower Food How to throw the perfect baby shower, including gifts, and shower games. Punches and more, add your recipes for baby showers!...( Continue Reading ) Top Picks - Top Baby Shower Gifts Top Picks - Top Baby Shower Gifts...( Continue Reading ) Best Baby Shower Gifts Directory Links music themed gifts birthday gifts for your girlfriend gifts for parents all american gifts executive gadget gifts gifts for high school graduation 21st birthday gifts ideas for easter baskets gift baskets of delaware graduation gifts for her special christmas gifts gifts for baptism gifts for best friends gifts for mom and dad sending gifts gifts for bridesmaids personalized gifts for children gifts for retirement hanukkah gift baskets cheap gifts for mom virtual gifts 4th wedding anniversary gifts birthday gifts for boyfriend elegance gift baskets baby shower gag gifts sentimental gifts for men birthday gifts to india valentines gifts for women attendant gifts valentines day gifts and ideas fathers day gifts ideas romantic gift baskets wedding anniversry gifts easy gifts to make best friend gifts birthday gifts for a boyfriend last minute birthday gifts anniversary gifts year alternative christmas gifts good valentines gifts plantation florida florist providing flowers and gifts making gift baskets unique retirement gifts mothers day gifts kids can make military retirement 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

College Gift

Skidmore College - Gift Planning - Life Income - Breaking News 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 Breaking News DONORS CALL THE SHOTS ON GIFT INVESTMENT Skidmore College is pleased to be one of the country's first charitable organizations to offer the Donor Managed Investment account (DMI), an exciting new charitable giving vehicle. This is an opportunity for donors to leverage their gifts for better return and greater good. The DMI concept enables donors or their financial advisors to manage the investment of their contributions after the gift is made to Skidmore, while receiving the immediate income tax charitable deduction. Unlike a "donor-advised fund," the DMI does not limit investment choices to a relative few alternatives. Rather, the DMI program allows donors to follow their own preferred investment strategies, including equities, fixed income, mutual funds, and possibly alternative investments. In consultation with Skidmore, a donor would gift funds into a DMI account, under the ownership of Skidmore College. A mutually signed program agreement authorizes the donor to direct the investment management of the funds for an agreed-upon period of time. At the conclusion of that period, the proceeds are applied to the use defined by the donor in the agreement. There is no fee associated with a DMI account. Rather, Skidmore pays a licensing and service fee to the DMI administrator, Winklevoss Consultants. Mark J. Rakov, Skidmore Class of 1979, is senior managing director for Winklevoss Consultants and was instrumental in getting the DMI program up and running for the college. To learn more about this and other charitable arrangements available at Skidmore, please call Don Blunk, director of Gift Planning (518) 580-5655, or send an email to giftplanning@skidmore.edu . Simply click on the link from this webpage. 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