I am quite concerned as to when it is proper to open wedding gifts. Some of the family is adamant about us opening our presents the day after the wedding - stating that our guests will be offended if we don't open them in front of them (especially the out of town ones). My fiance and I want to have the day after our wedding to relax and unwind from the big event and have an opening party a few days after. Is it absolutely necessary for our guests to see us open their presents and is it acceptable to open them a few days later?
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on Aug 22, 2005, 4:15 PM)
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Aug 23, 2005, 10:57 AM
Post #2 of 2
(4850 views)
Re: [turtle] Wedding Gift Opening - when?
[In reply to]
Dear Opening Gifts,
This is one of those regional specific traditions that I just do not agree with. It would be difficult for anyone to give something small. There would have to be comparisons. Plus, this party creates a focus on gifts. The focus should be on the joining of two people. After all, there has been plenty of chances for gift giving situations before the wedding.
The etiquette involved is that the gifts should be shipped to the couple/bride before the wedding. Gifts are opened as they arrive (not used until after the wedding) and thank you notes written.
When gifts are brought to the reception, as is common where I live, these gifts are not compared or opened in front of anyone. They are opened by the couple when they go home and thank you notes are written.
So, if your family follows this tradition, I'm at a loss. It would be nice if you could just relax and open your gifts by yourself.
Wedding Gift Opening - when?
I am quite concerned as to when it is proper to open wedding gifts. Some of the family is adamant about us opening our presents the day after the wedding - stating that our guests will be offended if we don't open them in front of them (especially the out of town ones). My fiance and I want to have the day after our wedding to relax and unwind from the big event and have an opening party a few days after. Is it absolutely necessary for our guests to see us open their presents and is it acceptable to open them a few days later? 
