Hi Cheryl,
My husband’s brother called and mentioned his son is getting married in a very small ceremony, and we will not be invited. However, there will be another wedding in the future, and we will be invited to that one.
Should we send a monetary gift now, or wait until they have their bigger wedding? (If it indeed happens)
Thank you for your time,
Gail
Hi Gail,
Traditionally, a wedding gift is only expected if you’re invited to the wedding. Since you’re not invited to the small ceremony, you have no obligation to send a gift at this time.
That said, there’s no rule against giving a gift even if you’re not invited, especially since it’s a close family member. You made a good point — the future “bigger wedding” may not even happen. So, if you want to give your nephew a wedding gift now, go ahead. Then, if the later celebration occurs, you’ve already given a gift and don’t need to worry about giving another one.
On the other hand, waiting until the future celebration is also perfectly fine, especially if you want to wait and see if they create a wedding gift registry.
In short, either approach works. Let your relationship and preferences guide your decision.
For more wedding gift details, here’s a good article on When to Give a Wedding Gift.
If you have questions or comments about this post or gift giving, bridal shower, baby shower, or wedding etiquette, please comment below or email AskCheryl@RegistryFinder.com.
Questions in this column are received from readers. They may be edited for spelling, length, and grammar, or to remove sensitive information. However, we are careful not to alter the intent or content of the question.
