1. How can I let people know where I am registered?

Word of mouth is really only the "proper" way to inform people where you are registered. You really must wait until they ask you or other family members. All friends and family members should be told where you are registered so they can inform others when asked.

Today, many brides are including cards from the Department Store where they are registered in their shower invitation. However, this is still NEVER done in the wedding invitation.

2. How can I ask for money instead of a gift?

Actually, there is NO way of wording the asking of money for wedding gifts in lieu of something else without being tacky. I'm afraid this is a cardinal rule of etiquette that must be taken seriously.

The only thing you can do is tell your friends and relatives your preference. Then, when others ask, your family and friends can say that you would prefer money because you are... (i.e. saving for a house, etc.).

Then, guests can do whatever they like. If they take the hint - GREAT - but if they don't, accept the gift with a gracious thank you!

3. How can I let people know that I don't want children at the wedding?

The only thing you can do is NOT include the children's names on the invitations. However, you'll find that some people will still bring their children.

So you might want to be prepared with a "kids table" that includes crayons, coloring books, and candy. Some even hire a babysitter to look after the children at the "kids table".

Some brides are now having "adult only" printed on their invitations but again, even at that, some people ignore the printing and assume "their children" are, of course, invited.

4. Who Pays for What?

A growing trend today is for wedding expenses to be shared among the bride's family, the bride and groom and the groom's family. But, here is the traditional list of "Who Pays for What"

5. How many invited guests should I expect will actually attend my wedding?

The general rule of thumb is if you're having over 200 guests, then you can estimate that about 25-28% of your guests will be unable to attend. If you are having less 200 guests, then the percentage usually decreases to about 15-20% or less. Other factors include how many guests you invite that live out-of-town and the travel distance required to attend the wedding.

Remember, every family (and guest list is different) - so always be prepared in case EVERYONE is able to come!