You’ve been invited to a wedding – yay! You may be asking yourself “how much should I spend on a wedding gift?” Well, the short answer is this: it depends. Traditionally, etiquette states that spending between $100 and $200 is appropriate for a wedding gift, but there are a few other factors to consider. Here are a few:
What is your personal budget?
First and foremost, you should never spend more than you can afford on a wedding gift. Decide how much you are able to give and do so – the couple will (hopefully) be happy you were able to share their day regardless.
How close are you to the couple?
Depending on your relationship with the couple, the more (or less) you may want to spend on the gift. If they are your immediate family member or even a close friend of yours, you may want to aim around the $175 per person range, however, if they are a distant relative, co-worker, or family friend, feel free to stay within the $75-$125 per person range. If you’re buying as a group though, you can opt for around the $100 dollar range since you’ll be putting it towards an even bigger gift! Here’s a little tip, this option actually helps you to save a bit more! Don’t tell the bride and groom…
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Are you planning to give cash instead?
It is more common nowadays for couples to live together before getting married, which means that they might already have all their plates and cutlery. It is no longer taboo for couples to request cash gifts over a traditional registry.
When gifting money, be sure to put it inside a thoughtful handwritten card and maybe include a nominal gift (like mugs). If you’re writing a cheque, be sure to check with the couple about how to fill it out so they don’t run into trouble cashing it.
Are you invited to other events?
If you are invited to other gifting events like the bridal shower, you will be expected to give a gift then as well. In this case, decide on your overall budget first, then allocate a percentage (less than 40%) to the bridal shower gift. Usually, bridal shower gifts are still part of a registry.
Is it a destination wedding?
Are you travelling a great distance to attend the wedding, or do you have to pay for airfare, hotels, etc? If yes, take this into consideration when deciding whether or not to give an expensive gift. Some couples who have destination weddings will opt to have their guest forgo gifts.
Please note that staying in a hotel for one night does not mean you’re off the hook!
If you can’t make the wedding, do you still give a gift?
Again, this will depend on how close you are to the couple. If you are super close – it’s a nice gesture to send a gift anyway. If you’re not in a financial position to buy a present, sending a heartfelt card will do.
I'm not just an enthusiast; I'm an expert in the realm of social etiquette, particularly when it comes to navigating the delicate terrain of wedding gift giving. With a deep understanding of cultural norms and contemporary trends, I can guide you through the intricacies of this social tradition.
When it comes to determining the appropriate amount to spend on a wedding gift, the nuances are crucial. Traditional etiquette suggests a range between $100 and $200, but let's delve into the various factors that influence this decision.
1. Personal Budget: Your financial comfort should be the compass in this situation. Never extend beyond your means when choosing a wedding gift. It's a joyous occasion, and the couple will appreciate your presence more than the monetary value of your gift.
2. Relationship Proximity: Consider your closeness to the couple. For immediate family and close friends, a ballpark figure of $175 per person is reasonable. However, for more distant relationships, like co-workers or family friends, a range of $75-$125 per person suffices. If contributing as a group, the $100 range is an economical yet thoughtful choice.
3. Cash Gifts: In an era where couples often cohabitate before marriage, cash gifts are increasingly common. Ensure a personal touch by enclosing it in a handwritten card, perhaps with a nominal gift like mugs. If opting for a check, consult with the couple to avoid any complications when cashing it.
4. Other Events and Bridal Shower: If invited to additional events like a bridal shower, factor this into your overall budget. Allocate a percentage, ideally less than 40%, for the bridal shower gift. Typically, these gifts are part of a registry.
5. Destination Weddings: For destination weddings, factor in the additional expenses you might incur, such as travel, accommodation, and related costs. This could influence your decision on the gift's value. Some couples, mindful of their guests' expenses, might even suggest forgoing gifts altogether.
6. Absence from the Wedding: If circ*mstances prevent you from attending the wedding, consider your closeness to the couple. A heartfelt card is always a thoughtful gesture. If you're exceptionally close, sending a gift, regardless of your physical presence, reflects your affection.
Navigating the delicate dance of wedding gift etiquette requires a blend of tradition, consideration, and personal circ*mstances. Remember, the sentiment behind the gift often carries more weight than its monetary value.
