Weddings are the most forgotten ministry event in many churches. Most of us are invited to several weddings every year, and that means we have numerous gift options.

Let's start with the bride. Most churches have some staff member who handles the arrangements for all the weddings at the church. Take time to sit down with this staff member, and explain your desire to help the brides and their families.

There are wedding planning books, stationery and gift ideas that are unique to the Christian market. Bring samples of these materials, and get your church liaison's opinion as to their usefulness to her in this ministry. It may be that she receives the same request from every bride. Perhaps a wedding planner book is a welcome item. Or it could be that thank-you notes or other stationery products are sought-after items. Find the need, then research the products.

One of the favorite things we do for our brides is that we offer to help them select meaningful gifts for their wedding party. Many choose a leather-bound devotional or a Bible.

If your store stocks music, a small collection of instrumental wedding music is a good offer. Give your wedding coordinator a copy of the CDs you carry so that she can share them with her brides.

Another idea for promoting wedding gifts or products is to have a yearly emphasis table. Many times you just have to educate your congregation as to what products are available and that you carry those products.

Got a question for Betty Bookstore? Write to her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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