A 19-year-old woman has ignited a heated debate online after sharing her frustration over being excluded from her sister's child-free wedding—yet still being expected to buy a gift.
The young woman, who remains anonymous, took to social media to vent her anger after receiving an invitation that explicitly stated no one under 21 was allowed. Despite this, her sister included a gift registry link, assuming her younger sibling would contribute.
"It Feels Like a Slap in the Face"
"I’m 19, not a child, and it feels like a slap in the face," she wrote. "If I’m not old enough to attend, why should I be old enough to buy a present?"
The post quickly went viral, with thousands weighing in on the etiquette of child-free weddings and whether excluding close family members is ever justified.
Divided Opinions
Some defended the bride, arguing that guest lists are expensive and strict age limits help manage numbers. Others, however, called the move "tacky" and "hypocritical."
"If you’re excluding someone from your big day, you can’t expect them to fork out for a gift," one commenter wrote.
What’s the Solution?
Wedding planners suggest clear communication is key. If certain family members are excluded, it’s best to avoid gift expectations altogether—or make exceptions for immediate relatives.
For now, the teen says she won’t be sending a present. "Maybe when I’m 21, I’ll reconsider," she joked.
