In lieu of gifts

I would put a small note at the bottom of the invitation

I don't think either is tasteful. You NEVER mention gifts. You can have your Moh tell people on the Bridal shower Invites and you can have it on the website and just do the rest by word of mouth but even to say no gifts its still tacky.

Most people will ask about gifts, that's when you can tell them "your presence alone is our gift, or if you insist we would prefer you donate to one of favorite charities"

You can't assume people will buy a gift (I know stupid, but you just can't). If someone asks, then you can tell them or have close family spread it by word of mouth.

I have the registry link on my wedding website and when they click on it, it "says your best wishes are our gifts"

Just a final note: some people WILL give you a gift no matter what you say. You can always return it and donate the money to charity, but you should accept it gracefully.

Sharon's method sounds good to me--put on the registry page that you don't want any gifts, but provide a charity donation link if people really want to give something.

I totally agree with Sharon, it's the most tactful way to go.

Thank you, your suggestions are very helpful.

My fiance and I put a Registry page on our Website through weddingwire and explained why we were not registering with anyone and asked that they would give us money in leu of gifts because that is truly what we needed!!! You could put a page on your website if you have one and add links to the charities or information on the charities so that people feel more comfortable donating.

You can also have donations in leu of favors. On your guests place settings, place a special note/card that explains that you(as a couple) have donated to these charities in leu of favors. So, your guests will know that they will not receive a favor, but your donations have been contributed to these particular charities! Your guests will understand and not get upset that your money went to a good cause. And this way, they can spoil you and buy you gifts now!!

Also, some places let you "register" your wedding for donations.

justgive.org

Sorry

https://www.justgive.org/give-now/wedding-center/index.jsp

UGH, dumb link won't work...