Presents at reception?

[Birdie07]

So I have yet another odd question...I'm having 2 AHR receptions one will be December 23rd (I know super close to Christmas)in Colorado and one January 26th in my hometown. Every reception I've ever been to people put their gifts on a huge table and then the bride and groom take them home to open. Well my FI (wedding expert hmph) says that we're suppose to open them at the reception. What? this is not a birthday party. So his mom chimes in and says that it depends where you live and that in CO you open them at the reception. So does anyone know the etiquette on this? FI says what else are we gonna do? Which leads me to "I have no idea?" hahaha.

[Jenn]

I've never been to a wedding where they opened presents at the reception. At the shower... yes. But never at the reception. I'm not from CO though... so I guess that doesn't really help - lol.

[starchild]

We did not open the presents at our AHR, but there was a table for gifts with a basket for cards as well.

[rodent]

I have never seen someone open gifts at a reception. Honestly I think that would be so boring! You want to be mingling & dancing. Even if it is a colorado thing, if you don't feel comfortable with it you don't have to do it.

[TATrisha]

Yeah, I say veto that! I don't think anyone wants to sit around and watch you open your wedding gifts. The women have to go through enough pain watching the showers!

[Maura]

you shouldnt open your gifts at the reception if for no reason other than the fact that not everyone may have brought a gift (whether they just didnt buy you one, or they already sent it to your house so you wouldnt have to lug it home) AND that you don't want anyone to feel bad or uncomfortable about what kind of gift they got you (like if they couldnt afford a really nice gift and then you open it up in front of everyone, and somebody makes a face or a comment about the quality of the gift...)

 

gifts should be opened at home in private, you dont need a show with everyone watching. youll send your thanks later. use the reception as a time to enjoy being with the people who came!

[LCBride2007]

i agree - i wouldn't open them at teh reception. and ive been to CO weddings! lol have a gift opening brunch the next day if people really care to see that event, but it's usually quite boring! i mean, how much can you "ohh and ahhh" over the pots and pans you registered for?