Envelopes as gifts

Is anyone setting up a special place for envelopes. I htought that usually there is a basket or 'mailbox' for guests to place envelopes in, usually on a gift table. When I suggested this to my mother she said this was rude and I had to let guests hande me the cards. I really didn't think that I was the only one who thought of using some type of decorated mailbox for monetary gifts. When people bring wrapped gifts they leave them on a table so why not do the same for envelopes? What are your thoughts?

Envelopes as gifts

If you do the mailbox or just a decorative box, I have seen it placed right on the dais or 'love table' with the bride and groom. Then guests can still hand you the envelope, and you place it in the box yourself. Good luck!

Envelopes as gifts

I had both a decorated birdcage, and a traditional Italian 'money bag'. Guests could either hand cards directly to me, or put them in the cage. It worked out fine. : )

Envelopes as gifts

If you want to follow proper etiquette then your Mom is correct. Gift Tables are not considered proper by Emily Post. Guests should hand envelopes and gifts directly to the bride and groom. I have also read that guests who wish to give gifts should send them to the bride or her parents home before the wedding as a courtesy to the couple. That way the bride does not have to worry about bring large boxes with her after the reception is over. But on a very practical note I have heard some horror stories of envelopes being stolen off of a gift table or taken out of birg cages/mailbox type boxes. So unless you have someone to watch your gift area you could 'misplace' a few gifts. Your husband or parents can also help you keep the envelopes safe.

Envelopes as gifts

I agree with your Mom. I have been to more than one weddings where a mailbox was set up on a table and guests were clearly not comfortable placing envelopes in the slot and walking away. I wanted one secure place to put all the envelopes. I wraped a sturdy box as a present, cut a slit in the top and tied a tulle bow around the box covering the slit. This way the box was sealed until we opened it. As people gave my Husband and I cards we put them in box.