A huge trend in weddings is offering a donation to a charity instead of wedding favors. I love this trend and think it is a great alternative to all the favors you spend so much time on and half the people leave on the table! They end up going to waste and while they are pretty, your guests don’t need them. At least this way you are spending your money on something someone needs. I have found that many wedding guests really enjoy and appreciate this new trend. So how do you let them know you are giving a donation instead in lieu of favors? One option is to leave a note at each place setting. Another is to frame a note at each table. If you contact the charity you are donating to you will be surprised at how accommodating some will be. They may provide you with a certificate, cards for each guest, or even pictures or other materials. Also wording the cards can be a bit difficult so I have added a few examples.
“Thank you for sharing this day with us. In recognition of your love and support, we have made a donation in your honor to ________________. We appreciate you being apart of our special day.”
“A donation has been made to the _______________ in loving memory of ____________. Though we can not see you we know you are there. Though we can not touch you we feel the warmth of your smile. As we begin this new chapter in our live (your names).”
“With much thought and consideration, we have chosen a special way to say thank you for sharing our wedding day. In lieu of traditional favors we have made a donation in your honor to the ______________. We feel that the finest gift is one that helps others live longer healthier lives.”
“In lieu of wedding favors (your names or we) have decided to make a charitable donation in your honor to the _____________. So others may feel the gift of love present this day.”
Remember these are just ideas. You may take these or reword them however you feel. When you are making a donation in the honor of someone it is up to you if you would like to announce that to your guests. The most important thing is that your are comfortable with the wording.