My fiance is Asian Indian. We're having a traditional western/Christian wedding, but many of his relatives will be there. He tells me that typical Indian wedding gifts are cash.
I have two questions regarding this. One - if we receive cash at a shower, or they hand it to us at the wedding (I hope the latter doesn't happen but he said it may), how should I respond to show appreciation but not greediness? If cash is in an envelope, do I open the envelope, or thank them and discreetly tuck it away?
My other question is about gift cards. Should I open the card (not the greeting card - the gift card) to acknowledge the amount - or just say thanks & move on?
In both of these situations, I wonder: if I don't open the envelope/card, I'm afraid I could seem ungrateful. If I do open them, I'm afraid I seem greedy.
Thank you.
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Aug 24, 2007, 6:00 PM
Post #2 of 2
(1130 views)
Re: [fallen_in_love] proper way to receive cash gifts & gift cards
[In reply to]
Dear Fallen,
If we consider mainstream etiquette here, cash and gift cards shouldn't be given for a shower. If gift cards are given, you would thank them for the card and not mention the amount.
If you receive an envelope at the wedding, it would be best to smile, say thank you, and put it away. However, since this is a cultural issue, you may want to ask your fiance what is expected when and if this happens.
proper way to receive cash gifts & gift cards
