I was recently invited to a wedding that is to be held at a very posh hotel in a big city and a dinner reception will be included in the festivities. A friend tells me that my gift (whether cash or an actual gift) should be at least equivalent to what the bride's parents (or whoever is paying for the wedding) are paying for each wedding guest's dinner. I have never heard of this before. Am I such a country bumpkin that I've missed this rule? Also, the person who told me this expressed such surprise that I didn't know this, that I am wondering if this is a commonly held custom in big cities or at least in certain social groups... I would really appreciate feedback on this.
TWQadmin
FORUM EXPERT
/ Moderator
Sep 27, 2007, 1:02 PM
Post #2 of 4
(1788 views)
Re: [Noel] Wedding gift equals cost of dinner reception?
[In reply to]
I've heard people say this and, frankly, it's ridiculous. Not only because gifts should not be given based on their value but because there is no way to really know what is being spent on this meal. As Judge Judy says, "If it doesn't make sense it isn't true"! This "rule" doesn't make any sense to me.
Give the gift you want to give based on your relationship with the couple and your budget. We shouldn't be hosting weddings in the hopes of recovering the cost. Top Wedding Questions Forum Moderator - "Write your sorrows in the sand, your blessings in stone".
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Sep 27, 2007, 3:04 PM
Post #3 of 4
(1770 views)
Re: [Noel] Wedding gift equals cost of dinner reception?
[In reply to]
I'm going to have to start watching her. That is so true. I couldn't agree more. Rebecca Black, Etiquette Now
Noel
Sep 27, 2007, 3:07 PM
Post #4 of 4
(1769 views)
Re: [Etiquette Now] Wedding gift equals cost of dinner reception?
[In reply to]
Thank you both so much for your replies! I really appreciate it!
Wedding gift equals cost of dinner reception?
This "rule" doesn't make any sense to me. 
