[Tascha]

This is a second marriage for both my fiance and myself. We are sending out notices that we will be exchanging vows in a local park and would like for our friends and family to attend. It is a civil ceremony and there is no formal reception planned for the day of the wedding or at a later date. Our invitations have noted that there is no formal reception and that gifts will be respectfully declined. My family and bridal party will be having dinner following the ceremony at a local restaurant. When we all get together for a special occasion, birthday, wedding anniversary or mother/father's day we each pay for our own meals and for the parents. The same will be the case on our wedding day. For those who may join us for our wedding day, how do we go about letting them know that we pay for our own? How would I word the reply card?

This post has been edited by TWQadmin: 19 May 2025 - 08:57 AM

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Tascha,

This may be your family custom, but it isn't polite for others. We never invite guests to an event and ask them to pay for it. If you cannot afford to pay for your guests, it is better not to invite them.

Also, we never mention gifts on our wedding invitations, even when we are asking for none. This was unfortunate.

Best wishes,

This post has been edited by TWQadmin: 19 May 2025 - 05:50 PM