Hello ladies,
This question might be strange, I hope not. My fiancé is Scottish and he tells me there it's not customary for family or guests to give money gifts at weddings. In Spain, weddings cost a fortune (restaurants hear the word "wedding" and the next thing you know, the cost starts at 3 figures per person and many places have a minimum of 60, 80 or 100 guests). No one in their right mind accepts an invitation to a wedding unless they're willing to cover at least their own meal and a little bit extra. The unwritten rule is a minimum of 150€/person (300€/couple). Not doing so is considered rude and "taking advantage" ("if you can't afford to go, decline").
Your close relatives would give you more money or pay for the dress, or even the entire banquet. In that case, you can use the money gifts from guests for your honeymoon, furnishing your house, etc. Not every family is the same of course but the system I describe is pretty standard.
Many wedding invitations contain bank accounts. It replaces the old system of putting money in envelopes and no one takes offence.
Many couples have already been living together for quite some time and the least they need is a toaster, a kettle, or 10. Not only do you already have all of that, but toasters do not pay wedding bills or more important things. Therefore, money is the answer.
Now, could you please tell me how this is addressed in the UK and particularly in Scotland? Is it true that it's completely out of the question to ask for money gifts? How do you raise the topic, how do people make these gifts (bank account provided in the invitation?) And how much is usually given, per person, if this is done at all?
Thank you very much in advance.
Sybil
