View Full Version : when to open gifts
kanaelili
05-10-2004, 12:20 PM
Hello...My impression of how gifts go is that people show up with your presents and they are loaded into a car and you take off with them. My mom recently told me people shoudn't do that. She thinks you should open the gifts there to see if you like them or not so people don't think all you want to do is take off with the presents. Any ideas?
maritimer
05-10-2004, 03:02 PM
If you are having your wedding on a weekend, what we've always done in our family is have guests leave gifts on a certain table during the reception, or in a specific box if the gift is an envelope. Have one of your friends in charge of keeping an eye on them, then the next day.... have a brunch or luncheon, invite anyone who is able to make it, and open your presents while everyone is seated, and enjoying themselves. This gives you more time to enjoy yourself at the reception, as well, more time to concentrate on the gifts your opening.
Hawaiian Bride
05-11-2004, 05:54 AM
If you are having your wedding on a weekend, what we've always done in our family is have guests leave gifts on a certain table during the reception, or in a specific box if the gift is an envelope. Have one of your friends in charge of keeping an eye on them, then the next day.... have a brunch or luncheon, invite anyone who is able to make it, and open your presents while everyone is seated, and enjoying themselves. This gives you more time to enjoy yourself at the reception, as well, more time to concentrate on the gifts your opening.
I definately agree with you. I also think that it would be a fun idea.
Sarah
05-15-2004, 05:12 AM
Traditionally gifts are not opened at the reception. It is a time to celebrate with your family and friends and enjoy the COMPANY, not the stuff. A brunch the next day might be fun, but it might also get expensive depending on how large. Besides, aren't you guys supposed to be off somewhere alone together honeymooning the next day?
Opening the gifts there "to see if you like them or not?" Is your mom serious? If you don't like them, what are you going to do, say in front of everyone that you hate the gift? There is always the opportunity to quietly exchange later something you don't care for, and not opening the presents at the reception saves you from having to fake a positive reaction to something you absolutely hate. (We got something that to this day I can't even identify!)
This also present problems when people give cash or checks. You can't exactly hold it up and wave it around for all to see, and then comment on the amount!
Besides, your guests will be bored watching you open gifts. This is not why they ***e to the reception. And, it is accepted that a guest has up to one year after the wedding to give a gift. Those who give their presents before or after the big day may feel self-conscious if they LOOK empty-handed in front of everyone.
Good luck!
bjmy1975
05-24-2004, 12:28 PM
My future sister in law and brother in law wanted to do that and my guys mother had a fit. You are paying for music and dancing and a big party to spend time with people, why would you want to open them then? On the other hand if you are having a rather small social reception I guess it might be interesting.
We will be going to the mom in laws house on sunday morning for brunch and present opening. Besides at least the men other than the groom can entertain themselves with Nascar and the women can relax.... ;) :rolleyes: :p
I just think I like it better that way. Besides, some guests may not feel comfortable with their gifts being opened in front of 200 people.
reecey
06-24-2004, 08:05 PM
The whole premise of wedding gifts is for a nice surprise for you and your new spouse to start your lives together. This is what brings us to the ultimate MUST DO. Thank you cards. Be sure and send thank you cards to everyone that gave you something, no matter how small. Personalize the card and make sure they get in within a month of the wedding day. This makes sure that the guest knows you attended and that you personally appreciated the thought they put into getting you that special gift.
Hello...My impression of how gifts go is that people show up with your presents and they are loaded into a car and you take off with them. My mom recently told me people shoudn't do that. She thinks you should open the gifts there to see if you like them or not so people don't think all you want to do is take off with the presents. Any ideas?
The whole premise of wedding gifts is for a nice surprise for you and your new spouse to start your lives together. This is what brings us to the ultimate MUST DO. Thank you cards. Be sure and send thank you cards to everyone that gave you something, no matter how small. Personalize the card and make sure they get in within a month of the wedding day. This makes sure that the guest knows you attended and that you personally appreciated the thought they put into getting you that special gift.
You are so right Reecey - thank you notes are the ultimate MUST DO!