OT-Wedding gift

[dvg1027]

Hi,

My parents and huband and I are going to Italy next month. We will stay with family for 1 week, take a train to Venice then go on Splendour of the Seas for 1 week, and finally head back by train to where our family lives about a hour from Milan.

 

My cousin who my husband and I are staying with just told us that his girlfriend and he are getting married the Thursday before we leave. They have asked me to stand up for them. The four of us are trying to think what would be a good wedding gift. I am not sure what the custom is in Italy but we don't really want to give money.

 

I don't think it is going to be a big wedding. They are both in their 50's. He is divorced and this is her first marriage.

 

I know this board is for cruisers but I don't know who else to ask and everyone always seems to have great responses. Thanks.

[Sue L]

You might want to ask on the European board, many on there live there and could answer with some actual experience. That is wonderful though that you are getting to be part of it. Is there another relative you could ask what they might enjoy?

[dvg1027]

Thanks for the idea about the European board. I will do that right now. We did ask my aunt, (his mother) and she had no idea.

[MilliesMom]

http://www.italiansrus.com/articles/wedding_part4.htm

All about Italian traditions for engagements & weddings. Also mentions traditions for gifts.

 

Passing the Purse - Italian Style

Traditionally, the bride in an Italian wedding travels from guest to guest while carrying a satin purse. The purpose of the purse is to store monetary gifts.

[MilliesMom]

I think I found the answer for you ... (had fun researching it):

 

Wedding Gifts

Modern Italians are just now catching up with wedding registries-- but many may not have prepared them for logistical reasons (met in one country and married in another)-- so it's always a good idea to ask the couple, or their family, if there are any special requests. The general rule is that if it's not made of silver, crystal or any other precious material you're better off giving money-- it's a common Italian wedding gift. The money is placed inside a blank envelope with only the groom and bride's names on it. Inside you'll find cash and a small card with the name of the person dispensing this monetary gift. The envelope usually given during the reception where you might find a line of relatives holding envelopes in one hand and waiting to shake the hand of the groom with the other. Here is a list of can't miss wedding gifts;

• Money Envelope
  
• One or three Elephants with their trunk pointing up (good luck)
  
• Silver Picture Frames
  
• Hand-made linens (lace, tablecloths, sheets, curtains, etc.)
  
• Religious Icons
  
• Flower Vases

http://www.virtualitalia.com/travel/gift_giving.shtml

Very interesting site.

[MilliesMom]

Some common (Italian) toasts: (just in case you are asked to toast the couple)

 

"Per cent'anni" ("for a hundred years.")

"Evviva gli sposi" ("hurray for the newlyweds.") "Bacio, bacio" ("We want a kiss," meaning the bride must kiss the groom; more often today in English "Kiss for the bride")

[pmfan]

dvg1027...enjoy your trip/cruise.:)