LONDON — Call it a charity bonanza. Royal aides say Prince William and Kate Middleton are considering asking guests at their April 29 wedding to make donations to charity instead of sending them wedding gifts.
A spokesman who asked not to be identified because of royal family policy told The Associated Press on Sunday this option was being considered but no firm decision had been made.
“It is one thing being studied,” the spokesman said, adding that details have not been worked out.
A substantial amount of money could possibly be raised for charity this way.
Under the plan, close friends and family could still give the couple traditional wedding gifts.
The royal couple, who will have access to tremendous wealth, are said to be determined to make sure their wedding is not seen as overly ostentatious at a time when the British economy is hurting.
The guest list has not yet been released. The ceremony at Westminster Abbey will be followed by a Buckingham Palace reception hosted by Queen Elizabeth II, William’s grandmother, and later a gala dinner-dance hosted by Prince Charles, William’s father.