When to Open Wedding Presents

Opening wedding presents is part of the fun in getting married. Sometimes couples invite their wedding party back to their hotel or home after the wedding to watch them open the gifts.

Mailed Gifts

A wedding gift that is mailed to you before the wedding can be opened before the ceremony.

Bridal Shower

The bride opens the gifts before the food is served or after, but not during the meal.

Wedding-Related Party

If an event has been thrown in the couple's honor and they are given a gift, they should open it at the time it is presented to them.

Wedding Day

Gifts you receive on your wedding day can be opened after you return to the bridal suite that night, or during or after your honeymoon.

Small Wedding

If you are having a very small wedding (about 50 or so people), you can open the gifts during the reception; just make sure you have circulated among the guests first.

Workplace

When coworkers at your office chip in for a gift, open it when they present it to you.

References

• TheAmericanWedding.com: Opening Gifts - Before, During or After the Reception?
• Weddings.LoveToKnow.com: Wedding Gift Etiquette