Why can’t I pass on unwanted presents to another couple who may appreciate them more? (Picture: GETTY)
Wedding planner and venue owner Alison Rios McCrone helps solve your dilemmas, no matter how big or small, in a weekly agony aunt column.
Hi Alison,
Last year, my husband and I were married and it was the best day of my life. I have a large family and was the first of my equally big friendship group to get married.
Everyone was so generous, and we received so many gifts, from vouchers for meals out to hotel stays to champagne. Almost 18 months on from my big day, we’ve barely made a dent in what we received.
Now, however, so many of my friends are following my lead in tying the knot, with several weddings in the next few months and I’m getting worried about the amount of money on present I’ll have to spend.
But I need your advice on what I think is the perfect solution, but which others have considered unacceptable – regifting!
I’m not much of a drinker and my husband works away, so hotel stays, restaurant vouchers and alcohol aren’t much used to us. But with so many weddings upcoming and a cost-of-living crisis, I think it is an ideal chance to pass them on to happy couples while making a saving.
I’ll make sure no-one gets their own gift back, and I think it does seem more personal than money.
However when I mentioned it to my mum and some other friends, they accused me of being a cheapskate, not caring about other people’s weddings, and said I would offend the bride and groom with my regifted presents rather than put a smile on their faces.
I was taken aback, as I thought regifting was pretty normal and it would be a great way to ensure no presents go to waste.
Am I in the right? Or should I just bite the bullet and buy more presents?
Thanks,
Ruth
Do you have a wedding problem you need some advice on?
Weddings are joyful occasions – but they can also be incredibly stressful. Whether you’re a bride or groom, best woman or man, family member or friend of the couple, the run up to the big day can be tense.
Alison, who has run a venue for 10 years and assists couples with wedding planning, is here to offer a helping hand.
Email platform@metro.co.uk to share your issue anonymously with Alison and get it solved.
Dear Ruth,
Getting married really is the best day of your life. But these events can be costly too so I completely understand your concern about the number of upcoming weddings and the financial strain it might put you under.
As such, the idea of regifting is not uncommon. But it is essential to acknowledge that not everyone sees regifting the same way.
While some may appreciate the practicality and thoughtfulness, as you have seen by your mum and friends’ reactions, others may …read more
Source:: Metro
