Opening gifts at the reception?

Dear Polite One,

My daughter is getting married and wondered if it is improper to open gifts at the reception anymore, as we have a reception hall for 5 hours? Some suggest that since they are leaving on a cruise the next day, they should go through the cards to collect the cash to spend on the honeymoon.

MOB

Dear MOB,

Yikes! How awkward and potentially embarrassing for guests who do not give cash. Plus, it is on display to all that the couple may value cash over guests. Not polite.

It is not appropriate to open gifts at the reception, as they are supposed to be shipped to the couple before the wedding. It is also never appropriate to go through the gifts, including cards at the reception. Cards may be given to the best man to hold on to until after the reception. This is very common and logical as those cards could be lost. The couple would need to know who gave what. They should also not expect cash gifts.

Any gifts given at the reception should be taken to the couple's home to be opened after they return. Of course, they should write their thank you notes as soon as they open any gifts. No gift-giving before the wedding (common) should be used until after the wedding. Cards should be sent as soon as early gifts arrive stating that the gift has arrived and a thank you note will be sent after the wedding.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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