Wishing wells are a relatively new wedding trend that have sky-rocketed in popularity in the last decade. As most wedding traditions are tales as old as time, the rules and expectations of newer crazes are often unclear. We’re here to shed some light on the pros and cons of wishing wells and to figure if they are the right choice for you!
The Useful Gift…
These days, many couples are already living together before they tie the knot. This means that the desire to be gifted essential homewares as wedding presents isn’t as common. For these couples, wishing wells are the perfect alternative. Cash is understandably the most useful gift because it can be used for whatever the couple needs or wants the most. Wishing wells are a great way for guests to pitch in and help the happy couple with their financial needs. This is a particularly good idea after the large expenses of a wedding have very possibly wiped away any savings.
Aloha…
By the time the entire wedding has been paid for, it can be tricky to find the money to treat yourself to a lavish and luxurious honeymoon. This is another scenario where wishing wells can be a better alternative to traditional gift registries. After all, being able to start married life with a holiday together is a gift in itself. Don’t let your honeymoon of dreams be just dreams. With a wishing well at your wedding, it can become a reality!
Never Underestimate Convenience…
Not only does a wishing well mean your guests are contributing to something you really need, it’s also a lot less hassle for them! Picking out a wedding gift can be a time consuming and exhausting process. Giving your guests the option of donating to your wishing well means that the stress of picking out a gift is eliminated and your guests will probably thank you for making their lives that little bit easier! A wishing well is perfect for making sure that your nearest and dearest don’t spend their hard earned money on things you don’t even need.
The Price Is Right…
As soon as a couple announces they’re opting for a wishing well over a gift registry, the question on everyone’s lips is “how much should I give?” This can be a stressful situation for guests who struggle financially and can’t afford to give as generously as others. To dodge this point of concern, it’s important to make it clear to guests that there is no “right” amount of money to give. It is simply about what they want to give and what they can afford.
Uncomfortable Cash…
Asking for money can always be a bit of a grey area, even at weddings. Some guests find it socially awkward when the bride and groom specifically ask for a cash gift. Reduce the risk of your wishing well being met with hostility by communicating why you’ve chosen this path. Include a seperate card with invitations that explains what the money from the wishing well will be put towards. That way guests can see that they’re not just giving you money for the sake of it. Better yet, when you’re writing thank you cards, include pictures of what you spent the wishing well money on. If your guests have contributed money to your wishing well, they’ll love seeing that their cash went to good use.
It’s The Thought That Counts…
Part of what makes wedding gifts so special is that the people you love most have spent time carefully considering what present you will love. It’s their way of giving you something personal that they have put love and consideration into. This is why a lot of people feel as though wishing wells are not the most personal option. If you feel as though some of your guests may feel this way, feel free to let them choose between giving you money or a gift.
If you do choose to opt for a gift registry and need some inspiration on what to include, click here.