After their wedding last September, Eliza and Dan Erikson of Washington, D.C., unwrapped boxes of linens, dishes, cookware, and other presents guests had chosen from their registry. But the Eriksons had requested another type of gift as well --donations for their favorite charity -- and many guests showed their generosity by giving money to their cause: community-development projects around the world. "Our loved ones were very receptive to the idea," says Eliza. "About a third contributed to the organization."

It seems more and more brides and grooms are building charitable giving into their wedding plans, whether to honor a loved one who would have been part of their special day or simply because their own cabinets and closets are already well equipped. "Whatever the reason, incorporating charitable giving into their wedding lets couples share what's important to them," says Bethany Robertson, executive director of the I Do Foundation, a group that sets up such registries.

If this appeals to you, but you're not sure what organization you'd like to support, you can do some research on websites such as CharityNavigator.org or JustGive.org. Giving to charity comes with an added bonus -- a tax deduction for the donor.

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