If you are giving a check as a gift (much appreciated at Israeli affairs), you don't need to label your check or the envelope that holds it – the check already has your name on it. It would be nice if you could scribble a few words on the envelope, but I won't push it. If you are giving the 'gift of cash', you do want to make sure your envelope well labeled!
Just by the way, through the years we have saved the good wishes and obviously-invested- time-and-thought messages from many a simcha, so the effort and heart-felt words are appreciated!
Rule of thumb: Whenever a large group gathers and a gift or present is left for the host or honoree (ba'al ha'simcha) – your name should be attached to the gift. Why? Let's be honest, you want to get credit for having given the gift in the first place. You went to the trouble of planning, searching, finding, buying and then schlepping the gift to the hall, you want the credit for your hard work.
What happened at my son's wedding? Gifts were brought to the hall and left for the happy couple, but the card, envelope or scrap of paper with the anonymous benefactor's name was nowhere to be found. OK, we were eventually able to identify the gift givers at a later date, but why make the young couple work hard? Why make their parents work hard?
There is a simple solution: After the store wraps the present in the obligatory cellophane wrap and raffia tie, with or without the potpourri filling every bowl, nook and cranny (don’t ask me why) – ask for a large plastic store bag. Place the present, bubble wrap (if necessary) and a card inside the bag. You can attach a personal card to the gift exchange card that is (usually) attached to the gift. Then – pay close attention – staple the large plastic store bag closed and (ready?) staple yet another card to the outside of the bag. On this card or envelope state whether the present is fragile or breakable (or should be watered or walked regularly) and also write your name. No scotch tape. No self-attaching backing. No glue with sequins. No hot glue. Use a stapler and staples (everyone has one from their last job – you can’t lie to me)!Now secured with a double cordon of name tags, your present can be easily identified and (perhaps) will arrive safe, sound and whole at the young couple's home.
Now go and enjoy the wedding. You earned it!
