guest that didn't give a gift

I think the side eye should be retracted for people who had to spend a lot of money and time to travel to the wedding. I know couples who will spend at least $500 on airfare and hotel. That’s gift enough. To expect a gift on top of that is selfish.

I had 11 people show up to my wedding without a card, 2 of them were the Best man and Matron of Honor. I'm just really surprised at that. I would never show up to a wedding empty handed, even if I was in it. 😥

I think the obsession with cards is bizarre. I also find the idea of giving an empty card at an event where the recipient is likely expecting a check to fall out of that card extremely awkward and uncomfortable. The focus on showing up to the event with something in hand is strange as well; you're not actually supposed to bring a present to the wedding itself, per etiquette, but rather send it to the couple before or after the wedding.

I was very surprised at how many people came to our wedding and didn't bring even an empty card (including groomsmen and close family) because I love to collect cards! We based our thank you cards on those who did give us a gift and left the reception as our thank you.

I personally would never show up to a bridal shower or wedding without a gift or card, even if I couldn't attend due to how expensive everything is. I mean, my husband and I are standing up in my cousin's wedding next May and can't attend our friend's wedding because of it and I've already gotten a card set aside.

It's very interesting to see what everyone's different opinions of etiquette are.