Wedding party- that's before the wedding?

melb2013

One of my FI's very good friends is having a DW in November.  We can't go because it's really far away and because it's just a few days before my FSIL's wedding.  So we just received an invitation to what they are referring to as a "wedding party" that's in two weeks!  Ummm how do you celebrate a marriage that hasn't happened yet?  

I had every intention of sending them a wedding present.  I have a gift all picked out that I know that they'll love, but I wasn't planning on giving it to them now.  Should we get it and bring it to this party?  Or should we wait and send it later, like we had planned?  Should I just bring something small like a hostess gift to this pre-wedding party?  I'm so confused.

jessicabessica

I'm not sure it really matters.  You generally don't bring boxed gifts to a wedding reception--it's typical to mail them before or after the wedding.  I would just send them the present when you want to send it.  I would not bring anything additional to the party.

ETA: I would write a card to give with the gift that says something like, "So glad we got to celebrate with you over the summer, and sorry to miss the wedding," to acknowledge the wedding party, at least.

melb2013

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/wedding-boards_etiquette_wedding-party-thats-before-the-wedding?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Wedding%20BoardsForum:9Discussion:c1697eba-272a-4aef-ab2e-e5e5ae11ad5cPost:99c29b6c-861b-4bdf-a83d-e02d7dbc6019">Re: Wedding party- that's before the wedding?</a>:
[QUOTE]I'm not sure it really matters.  You generally don't bring boxed gifts to a wedding reception--it's typical to mail them before or after the wedding.  I would just send them the present when you want to send it.  I would not bring anything additional to the party.
Posted by jessicabessica[/QUOTE]<div>
</div><div>I always send boxed gifts, but I generally don't send them 3-4 months in advance.  I guess I was just thinking that since they are having this pre party, that I should send it now. I think we'll just bring some wine and send the gift later?

</div>

ems27

If you just got the invite, I think it's totally acceptable to send the gift closer to their actual wedding, but maybe bring a card of congratulations?  I wouldn't get them an extra gift for the extra party.