[kddani]

If you think you were invited just for your gift, and you don't know the people that well, then you should just not go. IMO, going and getting a really nice FREE meal and entertainment for an evening is just as bad as inviting someone just for the gift. Heck, if they invited you, they at least shelled out some bucks in return to pay for your butt.

There is no 1 yr rule.... that's just an excuse for people who can't be bothered to get a gift together Traditionally, you're not even supposed to bring the gift to the wedding, you're supposed to have it sent to the bride's house (or parents' house) before the wedding. I know there's a thread on this stuff somewhere.

As for money, it really does depend on who it is. I was in college when my cousin got married, we're not close at all, and I was a broke college kid, so I spent about $25. Keep in mind that my parents did give a nice gift. Two of my close friends are getting married in the next year or so, and I'll definately spend more on them. When you're younger though, a non-bridezilla should understand you don't have the bucks. My friend Lisa is getting married in St. Croix, so if I go, not only do I have to pay for a wedding (and shower) gift, but for the trip itself. She totally understands that her friends don't have much money, and make sure to put inexpensive stuff on her registry (which we had to fight with her to even make- she thinks its tacky (as do I), but she has every kitchen gadget under the sun and no one had any idea what to get her).