Let's face it: Every married couple has at least one "white elephant" wedding gift. Think about your own parents' collection: That uglier-than-anything vase that only comes out of the attic before Aunt Bea arrives on Thanksgiving. Or the polyester, floral tablecloth from your dad's college roommate that your mom has been using to cover the dog's bed for years.
Happily, there's an easy way to limit the number of wedding gifts you receive that simply aren't your taste: Register for what you want. Most guests appreciate your taking the guesswork out of the gift-buying process. After all, their ultimate goal is to buy something they can be assured you'll enjoy. Have your attendants and families spread the word about where you're registered. (In bridal shower invitations -- only -- it's even acceptable to enclose a card citing where you're registered). If you'd prefer money in lieu of items, you can also have your families tactfully make your wishes known. Today, many banks will even set up wedding registry accounts into which guests can directly contribute to a specified cause -- a mortgage, the honeymoon, a new car.
Of course, you're still bound to end up with at least one picture frame from hell, or one kitchen tool whose use you simply can't identify. What do you do with such undesirables? If the gift is given in a box that identifies where it was purchased (or, even better, a gift receipt is enclosed), return it -- guilt free. The thoughtful gesture of letting you know where the present was purchased is also the guest's way of indicating that she will understand if you choose to return it. As for gifts whose origin is unknown, you've got two choices: Give it to Goodwill or some other charity and take your chances that the giver will never notice it's no longer in your possession. Or stash the eyesore in an alcove and pull it out only when the giver is in your home. One thing you should never do -- no matter how strong the urge -- is "re-gift" an undesirable present. For two reasons: Why stick someone else with what you yourself didn't want? And you might get caught in the (ultra-tacky) act.
