[kevamy123]

I am hosting a shower for my friend's second wedding. It is the second wedding for both bride and groom. They are not registering anywhere but are renovating the home they will live in and could use gift cards to places such as Home Depot and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Is it appropriate to ask for gift cards on the shower invitation or do I just say nothing and hope people ask and word of mouth spread it?? Thanks in advance!

This post has been edited by TWQadmin: 02 May 2025 - 02:48 PM

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Kevamy,

It is inappropriate to expect or ask for gift cards for a shower. Can you imagine what the guests would be thinking when they are informed of this? And, how would this play out at the shower? Would the bride open a card, show the gift card to all the guests, while each person states how the couple can really use this piece of plastic?

They can register for gift cards for the wedding though. They may not receive them, as many guests are turned off by them the same way they are when asked for cash gifts. I personally don't have a problem with gift cards for wedding gifts and give them quite often.

The bride opens gifts, not cards filled with cash or gift cards at the traditional shower. If they don't need anything, a gift-less shower would be a much better choice.

Please note that anyone who gave to either of the couple before are not obligated to give this time.

Best wishes,