I found this gem while searching for invitation wording, and now I know where some of the misguided ladies get their advice from:
http://www.newportmanners.com/weddinggeneral.aspExcerpted:
Q Is it proper wedding etiquette to ask for money towards the honeymoon instead of presents from wedding guests?
A It is perfectly acceptable to ask for
money to be used towards your wedding trip. Why not enclose a small
card along with your wedding invitation with your address and words
similar to these but inserting your own names: In lieu of a present,
Susan and Donald would greatly appreciate a small check towards their
wedding trip in Tahiti.
Q How do I ask for money on bridal shower invitations?
A If you are a member of the bride or
groom's family, it might seem tacky if you ask for money. However, if
you are the matron of honor organizing the bridal shower and know that
the bride needs money to cover her personal wedding expenses, you might
say on the invitation: "In lieu of a present, a small check would be
greatly appreciated".
Q How do you ask guests to give only monetary gifts,
tactfully? We want to provide a money tree, box, etc. Already have my
own household and don't need the normal gifts.
A Accompanying your wedding invitation
you might include a small a card stating that "In lieu of a bridal
registry, a small check would be greatly appreciated." You want checks
because in the flurry of activity it is all too easy for money to
disappear. Plus, with a check, if you lose the card at least you have
the guest's name on their check so you know who to thank.
Q I am the sister of the bride and maid of honor. A
friend of ours, groom's mom and myself are giving her a wedding shower
with the three of us co-hosting. The bride is insisting on approving of
our invitations, wording on invitations, and final approval of almost
everything. What should we do?
A You need to remember that this is your
sister's wedding and she is acting out her dream of how things should
be. Cut your sister some slack and let her do whatever she wants to do.
To be honest, I almost thought these answers were a joke.