More Engaged Couples Request Charitable Donations Instead of Gifts

Paisley McDonald and her fiancé, Chris Madsen, know exactly what they want in a wedding celebration. Engaged in February, they made quick work arranging the details, including a small May beach ceremony on Amelia Island in Florida and later a party for up to 300 in Atlanta, where they live.

They also know what they don't want: presents.

The couple has instructed loved ones to mark the nuptials with a donation to Compassion International, a Christian organization that works with impoverished youths.

"We mutually said, 'Let's not do gifts,' " explained the 28-year-old Ms. McDonald, an interior designer.