A bride and groom have sparked outrage after asking wedding guests to pay a fee to cover the cost of their reception buffet. The couple included the request in their wedding invitations, asking each adult to transfer $40 and each child under 12 to transfer $20 when they RSVP.
The invitation stated: 'In lieu of traditional gifts, we kindly request that you contribute towards the cost of our reception buffet. This will allow us to share a wonderful meal together and create lasting memories with our loved ones.' It also asked guests to include their name and 'wedding buffet contribution' in the payment reference.
One guest shared the invitation on the Facebook group 'That's it, I'm wedding shaming', captioning it: 'No, no, no, no, no, and no.' The post quickly drew criticism, with many accusing the couple of charging a 'fee' to attend their wedding.
'If you can't afford a wedding, DON'T HAVE A WEDDING!' one commenter wrote. Another added: 'I couldn't imagine making people pay for food at a party I'm throwing. If you can't provide for your guests as a host, don't have a wedding. Elope somewhere or something!'
However, some defended the request, arguing that $40 is less than they would typically give as a gift. 'Honestly, $40 is less than I would give as a gift, and to me this is very clear they don't want gifts - so it's a bargain!' one person said. Another noted: 'My sister had 40 people who RSVP'd not show up. That was 40 extra plates she paid for. I think this is reasonable too!'
