A family member is having a destination wedding which we will not be attending. They are also planning a reception about 9 months later closer to home. We, of course, want to give a gift but am unsure if we do this prior to the actual wedding or do we wait until the reception 9 months later which we will probably attend?

I think it best to send a wedding present prior to the wedding, since you have been invited to attend. Then for the reception you are not at all "obligated" for anything else.

Didn't see this particular question answered in previous posts, so appreciate your input!

My understanding is that you have until a year after a wedding to send a gift. I think that's a bit ridiculous though so try to send the gift right before the actual marriage of the couple. I also like to ship gifts whenever I can as it's more convenient for the couple.