Just to throw my .2c in... I'm from Louisiana, USA, and my cultural upbringing and experience jive exactly with Bitt's. And I do mean EXACTLY. I had no idea it was custom anywhere to expect your wedding to be paid for by the guests. Ya learn something new every day.

Side note... it HAS always sorta bugged me that weddings cost attendees involved a lot of money. Plane tickets, dresses, tuxes, etc. Gifts are another thing. But, I have friends whom are reasonably poor and wedding are a huge burden.