Thread: Ceremony only invitee - to gift or not to gift

Sounds like a great idea. Nice of her to invite you Since you're only going to the ceremony and not the reception, I would think your husband could come.

I'd give a gift if you want to give a gift. Perhaps post it, rather than bring to the ceremony, as there may not be anywhere to leave it for them? I'd bring your husband to the ceremony, unless you know that the church/chapel/whatever is small and they are having to keep to a set limit of guests. You could ask her? I've been to several weddings as a guest to the ceremony only, some that I wasn't specifically invited to but...

Agree on the staple gun idea, but you may have to line it up with someone to take in to the reception for you. As for taking your husband to the ceremony, I don't see why that would be a problem. Ceremonies aren't catered for and in some cases they are open for all and sundry to come along and watch. As it won't cost your friend anything if he did come along, I don't see any harm in asking if your husband is welcome.

Celebrate her wedding by giving her a gift. I was thrilled to receive gifts from people we nevereven thought to invite to our wedding: everyone's enthusiasm was so infectious! She cares for you enough to want you to be there when she becomes a wife: it is a lovely idea to commemorate that with a present. The staple gun sounds like a great idea. If your husband isn't included in the invite, she won't be factoring him into any...

You're all so wonderfully helpful!! Thanks. Off to Bunnings to get the staple gun and perhaps something to keep husband occupied while he's at home.

generally, if someone is married it is good etiquette to invite their spouse. given you're invited to the ceremony only I find it odd she's invited you sans husband. technically he could come given it won't impact on seating arrangements but I would still respect her wishes.

I wouldn't think there would be any expectation of a present, and logistically it might be a bit tricky, as usually gifts are put on the table at the reception, which you won't be at. But, the staple gun sounds like it would be a useful and much appreciated gift, and not expensive enough to make the bride feel awkward about just having you just at the ceremony. So, I think it would be a nice gesture. You are correct in not to bring...

I think that the staple gun idea is a good compromise, perhaps paired with something a little more traditional but not too expensive. I like how it is personalised, shows you know her. Regarding your husband, I would probably assume that he's not invited unfortunately, just to be on the safe side.

I agree on both fronts - the staple gun would be a lovely and thoughtful gift, and I believe your husband would be able to attend with you. I know that the guests I am inviting to our ceremony only would be welcome to bring all and sundry (but not too sundry ) and I certainly would be SO touched if any thought to bring a gift, as I don't expect them too, nor would I as we are not able to include them in the reception.

Sounds like you have a lovely idea for a gift, and you don't have to take it to the reception, you can post it or give it to her personally some time. As far as your husband, well, wedding ceremonies are a public event and all and sundry are free to come. However you have been provided with a personal invitation, and that does not include your husband, so I would respect that.