I've been avoiding this thread because you just don't even want to get me started on the topic. Talk about unbridled greed! I have not witnessed this particular infraction of wedding etiquette, but I've seen things that come close, very close to it.
The thing is, these immature, greedy people will probably be divorced in a couple of years. You can't build a strong healthy marriage on a shaky foundation. Couples go into major debt just to have a big party...it's ridiculous!
Thank you notes!? Forget about it! I don't remember the last time I got a thank you note from a newlywed. Someone mentioned wedding etiquette in another post. Proper etiquette dictates that gifts NOT be expected at all. Weddings are not supposed to be about the gifts, yet I haven't seen a bridal registry in recent years that doesn't include major household items like plasma TV's and pieces of furniture! AND, as if that's not bad enough, many people now have "formal" weddings and you're expected to show up in evening wear.
Just out of curiosity, what do you suppose it costs you to attend a wedding from start to finish. Let's see, there's the bridal shower (if you were unfortunate enough to be invited to that, too), possibly a new outfit (especially if it requires evening attire), the wedding gift, possible travel and hotel expenses, and if kids aren't allowed you may need a sitter. It just doesn't end.
Michele