fibbi

Well, depends if your friends are cauasian or chinese la....cauasian tends to give you GIFT and think that $ gift is rude....
From my own experience....the gift $ can't cover the whole banquet...

fibbi

回復 4# Quest


    I think the banquet does not cost as much when you count the gift $. Even though the gift $ may not cover the whole banquet the $ won't be too far off.

I think it's the other stuff that costs...
Ring
wedding picture (pre wedding and wedding)
Wedding videography
wedding ceremony (church or not)
flower decor
honeymoon
過大禮 items

fibbi

回復 7# Quest


    Wedding is never cheap...(unless wedding in backyard (no cost for venue) and BBQ style, like your case #1).

Otherwise, it's never cheap, at least 10K. It's not surprise to see people have to borrow/finance the wedding. But one thing though, you don't pay all that 10K in one time. Say wedding ring, probably get that 1 year ago during engagement. Then a few months ago take pre wedding pictures, then closer to wedding day needs final payment for venue, on wedding day the banquet $, and after the wedding some $ for wedding day pictures/videos when you actually get the final product.

But Chinese...usually parents will contribute something la...like the banquet. The rest is on the couple's own.
不過大有大攪，細有細攪啦。

I have friends getting married in the chinese restaurant, then have dinner there afterwards. That saves the venue charge...and also having friends take wedding day pictures and video. That could save another $3000 la.
For pre wedding package, there are some around $3000 (or less), but provided that the wedding gown is provided for wedding day, it's not as bad la.

fibbi

回復 7# Quest


    Btw, your 2nd friend case....if budget is a concern (since he needs to borrow)...why pay for flying ticket to/from HK? I think it's a bit too much, and not necessary.

fibbi

回復 11# Quest


    No wonder...

fibbi

回復 13# tofu


    pay for hotel is more common...but flight ticket....unless the family is "lee ga sing"...thta's different la...avg family...i don't think it's necessary lor...