A Couple Truly Shares Their Special Day

In a crumbling economy, an act of true generosity is almost revolutionary. But that is what David and Casey Aspin, of Chester Springs, Pa., did when they refused to register for wedding gifts and, instead, asked their guests to give to UUSC and a colleague organization, Oxfam.

It seems, in this day and age, weddings and wedding registries go hand in hand. Some stores go so far as providing automatic scanners that couples can grab and rush through the store, zapping things they want on their registry. But the Aspins knew that was not for them. "We have all the stuff we could possibly need," said Casey. "The last thing we need is another toaster. We live pretty simply."

A full-time writer, Casey has been committed to social-justice issues and living a "low-impact life" for a long time. Her husband, David, whom Casey refers to as "a complete renaissance man," is a computer engineer. They met at their local Unitarian church, something that was important in both their lives. Raised Catholic, Casey read an article about Unitarianism in her local paper when she was in her 20s, and the next week, she went to check out her local UU church. "I never looked back," she said.

For their wedding, the Aspins hoped to introduce others to their causes. Said Casey, "We wanted to expose people to UUSC, to something new...If I can attract new members, that's really cool."

Not only did the Aspins decide to direct gifts to UUSC and Oxfam, but they were determined to have an alternative wedding in every way possible. Committed to sustainability, they put together a menu of local and organically grown foods, to lessen the impact of their day. Instead of giving out small party favors, Dave and Casey donated a small amount of money for each guest to a local soup kitchen, Philabundance.

And they got a positive response. "People loved the idea of giving to charity. They were sending the invitation to kids and grandkids, saying, isn't this great? I think people were moved by the idea," said Casey. Added David, "We felt those less fortunate than ourselves should benefit from our happy event."

UUSC and its partners in social justice and human rights are glad they made that choice!

Written by UUSC's Sarah Peck for Rights Now, Spring 2009.