TikToker uncorks the most extravagant watermelon, resulting in an unwelcome shower at a Spanish wedding gift unveiling: "Spend wisely, or spare the splurge"
In the vibrant digital landscape of TikTok, a Uruguayan woman named Adriana has sparked a heated discussion about wedding etiquette in Spain. Her video, which has divided users, criticizes the practice of asking for money at weddings and the unwritten rules that often come with them.
Adriana finds problematic the fact that there are people who decide not to attend a wedding because they can't afford what is considered "the minimum acceptable." She believes it is normal to give a small token to the newlyweds, but not to expect guests to pay for their meal or meet a minimum amount.
The controversy surrounding weddings in Spain brings unwritten rules about money, generosity, status, and social commitment to light. Adriana's video has divided users, with some praising her honesty and others labeling her as "cheap."
As a wedding guest in Spain, you should expect to spend approximately €70–€150 per person for catering if contributing directly to event costs. However, this is typically factored into the couple's expenses rather than the guest’s direct payment. For gifts, it is customary to give money rather than physical presents, with amounts depending on your relationship to the couple. Close family and friends often give more, aiming to cover roughly the cost of their meal or attendance as a baseline.
Physical gifts are less common, but if you choose one, it should be thoughtful and appropriate. Giving presents or cash in a card is standard practice at the wedding or via mail beforehand. Spain does not have a strict set of fixed gift amounts, but generosity is appreciated and typically reflects the guest’s relationship and financial ability. Cash gifts are generally the norm and considered the most appropriate.
However, Adriana strongly criticizes the gesture of including the bank account number in the invitation, considering it shameful and ridiculous. She believes that inviting someone to a wedding is to welcome them, not to collect money or gifts.
Many users attacked Adriana with insults and sarcasm in response to her criticism. Despite the backlash, Adriana has opened a debate about the expectations and unwritten rules surrounding weddings, which still lacks a clear answer.
In conclusion, Adriana's TikTok video has brought attention to the unspoken rules and financial expectations surrounding weddings in Spain. While the debate continues, it is essential to remember the essence of a wedding: the celebration of love and the union of two people.
| Aspect | Details | |----------------------|------------------------------------------------| | Expected Guest Spend | Mainly gift money: €50–€150+ (covering attendance cost) | | Gift Type | Usually cash or contribution to wishing well | | Physical gifts | Less common, optional | | Etiquette | Gift value depends on relation and means, aim to cover your meal cost |
[1] Wedding Costs in Spain: What to Expect and Budget For. (2021). The Knot Europe. Retrieved from https://www.theknot.com/europe/weddings/wedding-costs-in-spain
[4] Spanish Wedding Traditions and Customs. (2021). 101 Wedding Wish. Retrieved from https://www.101weddingwish.com/spanish-wedding-traditions-and-customs/
In the midst of the ongoing debate about Spanish wedding traditions, some may find solace in realizing that sports, lifestyle, and even home-and-garden enthusiasts can contribute to the celebration in other ways. Perhaps, instead of focusing on the financial aspects, one could consider planning a unique home-and-garden DIY project as a heartfelt wedding gift, or even organizing a heartwarming sports-themed mini tournament as an alternative to the more traditional financial contributions. This could serve as a refreshing shift in the lifestyle of weddings, reminding us all that the essence of a wedding lies not only in the financial exchange, but in the love, unity, and shared experiences that truly make every celebration special.
