Sister wants parents to “gift” them with the wedding.

Dear Polite One,

My sister is engaged to a man with whom she has been living for five years in Australia; we are from Canada. They expect our parents to host an engagement party here in Canada followed by two weddings – one here and one in Australia – as a gift to them. Of course, she expects my parents to attend. In today’s society, for my mother's sake, what is expected of my parents financially?

Heeeelp

Dear Heeeelp,

The days of the bride's parents footing the bill are gone, even though some still do. The reason for this is that women no longer live in their dad's home, uneducated and jobless, until the day she is handed off to her husband who takes care of her. Well, at least here. So, why would it be necessary for her family to pay for her wedding when she can easily do this for herself? Whatever your parents choose to do is a gift.

Additionally, to host two weddings is one wedding too many. She needs to decide where to marry and wed there. Once she is married, she is. The second wedding would be pretend. Those who know better do not do this.

Note to Everyone

Ladies, we can't have it both ways. If we want to be independent, live on our own, make our own rules, get the best jobs and education, we should be responsible for ourselves. It only makes sense, and it is only fair.

Best wishes,

The Polite One

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