Give Me Green
Couples turn to alternative gift registries for unique and green gift lists
From the music to the cake to the venue, a wedding is as unique as the bride and groom themselves, with each detail representing a facet of the couple’s personality. And for an increasing number of environmentally conscious duos, that expression of individuality carries over into the use of an alternative gift registry.
“I think people find it very refreshing and use it as an opportunity to educate others about what kind of people they are,” says Lisa Wise, executive director of the Center for the New American Dream, which oversees the Web site AlternativeGiftRegistry.org. “I think if you register with [a housewares store] you feel like you’re just one of many,” says Wise. “Our culture is very cookie-cutter and this is a chance for users to establish themselves as a unique couple.”
According to Wise, the Alternative Gift Registry has seen a rapid increase in usage since its inception about 18 months ago. Couples can create their online wish lists using eco-friendly and sustainable products, but they can also still include traditional gifts from any retail Web site.
“This registry is intended to be a hybrid,” Wise says. “We want people to think about consumption and be conscious consumers, but we understand that around celebrations there is a need and a tendency for traditional gifts as well.”
Valerie Reddemann, president and founder of eco-friendly retailer Greenfeet, says a registry’s level of eco-friendliness varies by couple.
“We get a lot of people that do both,” she says. “They have a green streak in them and so they’re looking for items that are more sustainable. We have some couples that are hardcore, and sometimes they do this not only for themselves but to send a message to guests as well. It’s kind of a life stamp.”
In addition to standard green housewares, such as organic cotton bath towels and sleek indoor compactors, Greenfeet offers some unexpected items, including solar-powered radios and decorative dishes made from repurposed vintage records.
With the Alternative Gift Registry, couples can even add non-material gifts, such as requesting dog-sitting services or live music for the reception.
“In a time of recession when people need to be thoughtful economically, this is great because it offers people a chance to contribute and give things that aren’t necessarily financially burdensome,” Wise says. “It’s a more engaging and personal way to involve people in your tradition.”