DEAR ABBY: Our son and his fiancee chose to elope to Hawaii for their wedding, opting out of a traditional wedding and reception. Now we are told they have registered at several stores.
Is it appropriate to expect friends and relatives to send gifts to a couple that has eloped? -- CURIOUS IN CINCINNATI
DEAR CURIOUS: No, it is not "appropriate." It is customary to give a wedding gift if someone attends the celebration. Otherwise, a gift is not required. And for them to "expect" gifts under these circumstances seems nervy to me.