Weddings can be a financial burden, and most people recognize that reality. However, treating absent guests like they owe money is an entirely different story. A couple from Minnesota took this approach by billing a wedding guest for her missed meal.
Jessica Lane received a bill for $75.90, covering two fish dinners she didn’t eat. The couple attached a note stating:
“This charge reflects the cost incurred for meals that were RSVPed for. A reimbursement and an explanation for your absence would be appreciated.”
Jessica was preparing for the wedding when she received an unexpected call from her husband, revealing that his mother could no longer babysit their children. The invitation had clearly stated “no children,” leaving the couple with no choice but to skip the event. Weeks later, they were surprised to find the bill in their mailbox. “I’m not sure what the right response would be,” she remarked.
Planning a wedding is undoubtedly stressful and costly. However, experienced event planners understand that no-shows are part of the game; life can be unpredictable. Is it worth risking a friendship over a $75 bill? After such an awkward encounter, how can one move forward?
Sarah Johnson, editor of Minnesota Wedding Magazine, told a local news outlet, “There’s absolutely no reason to follow up with guests after the event or to question their absence, let alone send them a bill.” If Jessica’s situation was as last-minute as she described, who would want to disrupt a bride on her big day with last-minute news? Certainly, no one.
If wedding costs are so high that a couple feels compelled to act like debt collectors over a no-show, perhaps it’s time to reconsider their budget. This type of behavior is simply unacceptable.
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In summary, charging guests for missed attendance at a wedding is not only absurd but can also irreparably damage relationships. Weddings should be about celebrating love, not enforcing financial accountability.