I hate big weddings as much as anyone but the idea of bringing a gift isn’t to “charge” you. It’s that you want to help set up the newlyweds in their life together. The party is all about them but most of what they’re spending is on things to make sure their guests have a great time. I’m sure it happens but I’ve never been to a wedding where anyone demanded a gift as the cost of entry.
I hate big weddings as much as anyone but the idea of bringing a gift isn’t to “charge” you. It’s that you want to help set up the newlyweds in their life together. The party is all about them but most of what they’re spending is on things to make sure their guests have a great time. I’m sure it happens but I’ve never been to a wedding where anyone demanded a gift as the cost of entry.