I had a 'friend' who suddenly invites me to their wedding when she pretended to not know me few days earlier. I know Chinese banquets are often a way for the couple to profit from monetary gifts, and there's an etiquette to still give money even if you decline (a lesser amount).
it's the same with us... the couple asks for money. Those days they asked for things to decorate the house passed and I tell you I no longer go to parties of people I am not close with and no one forces me to pay. No way.
There's a huge difference between friends and friends.