I'm from Europe and live in Europe still and it's not the norm here! It's a new thing and not many people like it. Maybe you're from a different part of Europe than I am.

I'd be horrified if I gave money and the couple used it for the reception. Stick to a budget! (Same for the honeymoon - it's not a necessity and you can go camping or just lock the doors at home if you have no cash.) I'm not giving you money to pay for having me as a guest! I find that rather rude, which is why I prefer to give a gift if I do not know how the money is planned to be spent.