We are invited to a good friends wedding next summer. The invitation has arrived today, the wedding is going to be at a country house quite a fancy one, and there's a card for a gift list.
I usually do give cash these days so not sure if IABU to find this offensive:
"To our lovely guests. We really hope you can join us on our special day. We ask that you don't bring any gifts on the day, but would prefer for those of you that choose to give a gift, that you make a cash donation ahead of September 1st 2024 which will help to contribute towards the celebration. All our love"
I think it's the fact they're having what seems to be an expensive wedding and asking the guests to pay towards it - is this the done thing these days??