Tips on How Much to Spend on a Wedding Gift

Your present to the happy couple will be especially appreciated on their wedding day. It might be difficult to decide how much money to spend on a wedding present, whether you are invited to a small, personal ceremony or a large, expensive occasion.

While it's common knowledge that weddings may rack up hefty bills, what's a reasonable amount to spend on a gift? To put it simply, it is dependent upon the circumstances.

How well acquainted are you with the happy couple? Do you consider them to be close friends, or merely acquaintances from high school? Spend the extra money if you care enough about them to have their favourite drink waiting for them at the bar.

But if you're not close with this person, or if they're just a casual acquaintance, I'd recommend not spending more than $100. It's possible that one person's idea of appropriate conduct is not compatible with that of another.

Before settling on a gift amount, it is wise to take into account your financial situation as well as your relationship with the bride and groom.

If you really want to wow them, but they already have everything they could ever want, give them a unique experience, like concert tickets to your favourite band or a few hours of your time volunteering at a cause they care about. Gifts of this nature are often appreciated for their thoughtfulness.

Do you have a decision to make about the perfect wedding gift? Don't worry; we're here to help. Here are some helpful tips on how much to spend on a wedding gift. Whether you're buying for your sister or best friend, it's always good to know what is appropriate and what isn't. So if you're looking for some guidance, keep reading!

Respect the Past

According to custom, your gift should equal the host's expected expenditure of entertaining you during the reception. Price your present between $100 and $150 per guest if you believe that is about how much the happy couple will be spending on the reception.

However, this reasoning comes with the drawback of having to charge per individual. For example, if you estimate that the couple would spend $100 per guest on dinner and drink, you and your plus one should budget $200 for a present.

How much should I spend on a wedding gift?

It relies on a number of criteria as to how much you should spend on a wedding present, as cost per dish is no longer a consideration.

The American Express Spending and Saving Tracker found that the average amount a visitor was expected to spend on a wedding present was $99. This is, however, assuming that the guest is a friend of the couple. Costs to the family are expected to total at least $127.

Even if you don't know the couple very well, spending less than $50 on a present isn't particularly thoughtful. Gifts from coworkers and infrequent friends should at least total $50-$75.

Gift cards to one of the stores where the couple registered are a nice compromise if you are unable to find a present for the pair within your budget of $50 to $75.

If you're looking for some broad rules to live by, here they are:

• Choosing a wedding present isn't about the monetary value, but rather about showing the happy couple how much you care by giving them something they can use forever to commemorate this momentous day.
• Find a present that both exceeds their expectations and is well within your budget.

While large-ticket things may be thrilling, most couples register for help across a wide range of costs because they also desire smaller presents that have just as much value, purpose, or delight in their everyday usage.

These are only rough estimates for how much money to spend on wedding presents, but keep in mind that a smaller gift from the heart is just as precious as a larger one:

• $50-$75 if you're a coworker, friend, or distant relative
• Give between $75 and $100 to a friend or family member.
• Donate $100-$150+ if you're in the wedding party, a close friend, or family.
• Increase the value of your gift by 1.5–2 times if your invitation resulted in a +1.

When it comes to weddings, is it appropriate to present a gift as a group?

Join forces with a group of friends to buy the happy couple a luxurious present if the only thing left on the registry is out of your price range or if you just know they'll appreciate something extravagant.

The couple will receive a meaningful, high-priced gift from the wedding party, and each person can typically get away with spending a bit less than they otherwise would have on the bridesmaid outfit, the bachelor party, and the shower.

Think About the Cost of Your Tickets

Don't lose sight of the fact that you're already spending a good lot to get to the wedding, especially if it's a destination wedding or the height of the tourist season.

According to Jason Reid, creator of the Giftagram app, "it's fair to presume the bride and groom are mindful of how much everyone is already spending." This is because guests at a wedding often cover their own lodging and travel expenses.

There's no need to go all out on a present if you're already spending a lot on travel and lodging to get there.

 

Do I need to provide a gift that equals the cost per person at the wedding?

"Several details, such time of day and outfit, are affected by the wedding's formality, although the amount of the gift is unrelated.

The nature and amount of your congratulations present to the newlyweds should be determined solely by your relationship to them and your financial resources. When invited to an event where black ties are required, no visitor should feel obligated to go above and beyond financially "explains Carlson.

Similarly, just though your best friend had a backyard wedding for 10 guests doesn't mean you should save on the present.

Also, if you happen to be attending multiple events for the couple, consider this as well: you can use the 60-20-20 rule, which means spending 20 per cent of your total budget on an engagement party gift, 20 per cent on a gift for the bridal shower, and 60 per cent for the actual wedding gift.

It was once regarded proper etiquette to give a wedding present equal in value to the price of a plate at the reception. Although it has clearly seen better days, this cunning bit of wisdom is nevertheless handed down from generation to generation as though it were wedding scripture.

Listed below are a few reasons why you should ditch it:

• In order to stick to this rule, guests (or the couple themselves) will have to enquire about the cost per dish at the wedding, which might be awkward.
• This expression falsely suggests that wedding guests are expected to purchase expensive gifts regardless of their financial situation.
• Weddings are not about bartering food for gifts; they are about joy and fellowship.
• This custom sends the message that all you care about is finding a wedding present that won't break the bank for the couple's reception meal.

Think About How Close You Are to the Couple

In general, the closer you are to the happy couple, the more you should spend on them in the form of a wedding present.

In order to make a suitable choice, think about your relationship with the pair to determine how close you should get them. However, no of your closeness to the couple, it is considered rude to give a wedding present that is less than $50.

Wedding etiquette expert and Honeyfund co-founder Sara Margulis says, "A wedding guest should always donate what they believe best celebrates the event, taking into account their budget as well as their connection with the couple."

You can go above or below the standard $100 wedding present range depending on your personal relationship with the couple.

Spending upwards of $150 per visitor (or $200 from a pair) is appropriate if you are close with the couple or are connected to them.

If your relationship with the recipient isn't nearly as tight, or if you're the plus-one and not the invited guest, you may choose to provide a lesser present or contribute less money towards its cost.

Here are some of our proposed budgeting areas, broken down depending on your connection to the bride or groom:

• Over $150 for a Very Close Friend or Relative
• Paying a $100-$125 favour to a friend or family member is appropriate.
• $50-$100 for a coworker, extended family member, or friend who lives far away.

How about cash? Is it acceptable as a wedding present?

There is no moral ambiguity associated with monetary presents. American Express found that one-third of respondents would rather receive cash than any other type of present during a wedding.

Since most millennials are getting married later in life and already have fully furnished houses, they would rather get money for their savings than traditional wedding registry items.

In today's society, wedding presents of cash are becoming common. If the couple already shares a home, you may want to consider gifting them money instead of housewares. If the happy couple already has money set up for their honeymoon, that's a nice touch.

Don't bring cash to the wedding—more it's likely to be lost in the shuffle than a thoughtfully wrapped present.

Some couples may choose to have financial contributions made directly into their bank accounts rather than receive physical presents, and sites like Tendr make this possible by allowing guests to give money online along with a personal comment they may put on a digital card.

Should I still give a gift if the wedding is at a resort?

If you're attending a destination wedding, you can consider the money spent on travel and lodging when you purchase your gift.

The couple will understand if you offer them a lesser present than usual in light of the money you spent on hotel. As a result, if you are invited to a destination wedding, you should think about buying a present for the couple, but you should only spend as much as you can comfortably afford.

"While it is not expressed directly, it is understood that their presence at the wedding can serve as a gift.

Be considerate of the fact that your guests have likely gone to great lengths to be there, such as arranging child care and taking time off work. But if a visitor is so inclined, they may bring a gift along, that's OK by us "What Carlson said.

If you truly want to buy them a wedding present but are strapped for cash right now due to the cost of travel and lodging, you have up to a year to do so. They'll appreciate it whenever you give it to them.

Aware of Occasions When a Gift Is Not Necessary

While it is customary to offer gifts during a wedding and bridal shower, it might be helpful to remember that you are not obligated to do so. In this sense, an engagement party is not an appropriate occasion for exchanging gifts (though a card congratulating the couple is a nice touch).

For example, if a guest helps plan the bridal shower or does the bride's makeup on the big day, they shouldn't feel forced to buy a gift.

Donating money for gifts only on times where they are expected will help you stretch your dollar.

Do I still need to bring a gift if I can't attend the wedding?

Carlson argues, contrary to Emily Post, that if you've been invited somewhere, "you should always bring a present unless you've truly been out of contact for a considerable period of time."

"If you decline an offer and don't have anything to send, I'd like to think there's an unwritten rule that says it's okay. Sending a handwritten note with your best wishes is far more meaningful." If you are close with the newlyweds, it is customary to send a wedding present. A genuine word of congratulations on the RSVP card may suffice if you feel like you were the 299th person asked to your distant cousin's wedding out of 300 people.

Sending a gift instead of attending the wedding in person is a cost-effective way to show your congratulations, and the happy couple will surely enjoy the $30 wine opener you send them.

What should I give as a wedding present if I want to bring a plus one to the wedding?

Nowhere in the rules of wedding gift etiquette does it say that you need to give more money if you bring a date. Even while Carlson agrees that it makes sense to spend more money since you're feeding two people, you needn't.

When selecting how much money to offer the newlyweds, you should think about the total number of attendees, including yourself and any dates. Bringing a plus one to the wedding might make it seem like you gave twice as much thought to the gift as the other attendees.

Having discussed whether or not your partner will be contributing to the gift, you can begin thinking about what would make the best wedding present.

Spend only what you can afford.

Although it may seem self-evident, please hear me out: Give just what you can reasonably afford, even if it is less than what is expected or what is customary.

Buying a set of little items (which is also a great way to assist the newlyweds stock their house with things that are frequently missing, like measuring spoons or cutting boards) is a great alternative if you're struggling to locate a wedding present within your budget.

Attending the wedding is more important than buying an expensive gift if you can't afford one but still want to show your support for the happy couple.

When is the latest I may send a wedding gift to the newlyweds?

The customary time frame for delivering a wedding present is one year. That being said, it's best to offer the gift as quickly as possible, according to etiquette experts. Present opening at a wedding is a must for all guests, who want to see the happy couple in all their newlywed glory.

In the event that you forget to send a present until after the wedding, you have until the end of the third month to do so. Traditionally, a year is given to the couple to receive their present, but in today's world of fast and cheap shipping, it's best to get the gift to them as soon as possible.

Gifts should be sent one to two weeks before the wedding to the couple's address (or the gift coordinator's address). The three-month rule begins counting from the big day if you are unable to do so.

To whom should I make a cheque payable?

Give the happy couple a check, but don't include their new last name in the "to" field.

Checks written after the wedding that don't have the registered account name on them may often be rejected by the bank, which may seem paradoxical after you've just witnessed them exchange vows. Writing the cheque to only one individual and including a cheerful remark in the memo section is the safest option.

Can I send a gift ahead of time or do I need to bring it with me to the wedding?

"Instead of bringing the gift with you on the big day, it is customary to have it shipped to the happy couple's new home.

It would be greatly appreciated if you could make the newlyweds' lives a little simpler on the big day by taking care of some of the many details that will need to be managed. Thankfully, registries make it almost guaranteed that you'll be able to ship your gift with minimal hassle "the late Carlson remarked.

Send the happy couple a gift in the mail. Wedding gift etiquette has changed from the traditional practise of guests bringing their gifts to the ceremony itself to the more convenient practise of having guests mail their gifts to the happy couple.

Since many couples receive numerous gifts, it can be more convenient for everyone if you mail your present directly to the couple or their gift coordinator's home rather than having them transport all of the presents from the venue.

It's fine to hand the wedding's designated gift-handler any money you've included in a card for the happy couple. The newlyweds will be too preoccupied with greeting guests and celebrating to accept your cards personally.

Only guests who have purchased something not on the registry are expected to bring physical gifts to the wedding. If you aren't sure how to wrap a gift, just follow the guidelines provided on the registry website.

 

Can we still give them presents if they aren't on the registry?

It is not considered bad form to give a wedding gift that wasn't in the couple's register. If you decide to buy something not on the couple's register, though, make sure it's something they'll treasure.

"After a couple has taken the time to pick out everything they'll need, it makes sense to comply with their demands. But if you know the couple well and are certain that your present will be appreciated regardless of whether it was on the register, then by all means do so "What Carlson said.

Assist the happy couple by making purchases from their register. Before settling on a wedding present, it is wise to peruse the happy couple's register. The couple's registry is a great resource for visitors who aren't sure what to get the pair.

Guaranteed to be appreciated by the happy couple, the goods on the registry cover all bases in terms of home decor, utilities, and fun.

Not using the register to buy a present is not expected of you. Off-registry presents should be thoughtful expressions of the couple's shared values or interests.

Conclusion

It might be difficult to decide how much money to spend on a wedding present. Price your present between $100 and $150 per guest. If you're buying for your sister or best friend, it's always good to know  what is appropriate and what isn't. The American Express Spending and Saving Tracker found that the average amount a visitor was expected to spend on a wedding present was $99. Gifts from coworkers and infrequent friends should total $50-$75.

 

Donate $100-$150+ if you're in the wedding party or close friend or family. It was once regarded proper etiquette to give a wedding present equal in value to the price of a plate at the reception. There's no need to go all out on a present if you're already spending a lot on travel and lodging to get there. Instead, consider using the 60-20-20 rule. In general, the closer you are to the couple, the more you should spend on them in the form of a wedding present.

 

American Express found that one-third of respondents would rather receive cash than any other type of present during a wedding. Some couples may choose to have financial contributions made directly into their bank accounts. If you're attending a destination wedding, you can consider the money spent on travel and lodging when you purchase your gift. An engagement party is not an appropriate occasion for exchanging gifts. Donating money for gifts only on times where they are expected will help you stretch your dollar.

 

If you are close with the newlyweds, it is customary to send a wedding present. Sending a gift instead of attending the wedding in person is a cost-effective way to show your congratulations. Buying a set of little items is a great alternative if you can't afford an expensive gift. Present opening at a wedding is a must for all guests, who want to see the happy couple in all their newlywed glory. Traditionally, a year is given to the couple to receive their present, but in today's world of cheap shipping, it's best to get the gift to them as soon as possible.

 

Only guests who have purchased something not on the register are expected to bring physical gifts to the wedding. Gifts should be thoughtful expressions of the couple's shared values or interests. The couple's register is a great resource for visitors who aren't sure what to get the pair.

Content Summary

• Your present to the happy couple will be especially appreciated on their wedding day.
• It might be difficult to decide how much money to spend on a wedding present, whether you are invited to a small, personal ceremony or a large, expensive occasion.
• How well acquainted are you with the happy couple?
• Before settling on a gift amount, it is wise to take into account your financial situation as well as your relationship with the bride and groom.
• Do you have a decision to make about the perfect wedding gift?
• Here are some helpful tips on how much to spend on a wedding gift.
• Price your present between $100 and $150 per guest if you believe that is about how much the happy couple will be spending on the reception.
• It relies on a number of criteria as to how much you should spend on a wedding present, as cost per dish is no longer a consideration.
• Find a present that both exceeds their expectations and is well within your budget.
• These are only rough estimates for how much money to spend on wedding presents, but keep in mind that a smaller gift from the heart is just as precious as a larger one:$50-$75 if you're a coworker, friend, or distant relativeGive between $75 and $100 to a friend or family member.
• Don't lose sight of the fact that you're already spending a good lot to get to the wedding, especially if it's a destination wedding or the height of the tourist season.
• This is because guests at a wedding often cover their own lodging and travel expenses.
• There's no need to go all out on a present if you're already spending a lot on travel and lodging to get there.
• Do I need to provide a gift that equals the cost per person at the wedding?"Several details, such time of day and outfit, are affected by the wedding's formality, although the amount of the gift is unrelated.
• The nature and amount of your congratulations present to the newlyweds should be determined solely by your relationship to them and your financial resources.
• Also, if you happen to be attending multiple events for the couple, consider this as well: you can use the 60-20-20 rule, which means spending 20 per cent of your total budget on an engagement party gift, 20 per cent on a gift for the bridal shower, and 60 per cent for the actual wedding gift.
• It was once regarded proper etiquette to give a wedding present equal in value to the price of a plate at the reception.
• Listed below are a few reasons why you should ditch it:In order to stick to this rule, guests (or the couple themselves) will have to enquire about the cost per dish at the wedding, which might be awkward.
• This expression falsely suggests that wedding guests are expected to purchase expensive gifts regardless of their financial situation.
• In general, the closer you are to the happy couple, the more you should spend on them in the form of a wedding present.
• In order to make a suitable choice, think about your relationship with the pair to determine how close you should get them.
• However, no of your closeness to the couple, it is considered rude to give a wedding present that is less than $50.Wedding etiquette expert and Honeyfund co-founder Sara Margulis says, "A wedding guest should always donate what they believe best celebrates the event, taking into account their budget as well as their connection with the couple.
• "You can go above or below the standard $100 wedding present range depending on your personal relationship with the couple.
• Spending upwards of $150 per visitor (or $200 from a pair) is appropriate if you are close with the couple or are connected to them.
• How about cash?
• Is it acceptable as a wedding present?There is no moral ambiguity associated with monetary presents.
• American Express found that one-third of respondents would rather receive cash than any other type of present during a wedding.
• Should I still give a gift if the wedding is at a resort?If you're attending a destination wedding, you can consider the money spent on travel and lodging when you purchase your gift.
• The couple will understand if you offer them a lesser present than usual in light of the money you spent on hotel.
• As a result, if you are invited to a destination wedding, you should think about buying a present for the couple, but you should only spend as much as you can comfortably afford.
• "While it is not expressed directly, it is understood that their presence at the wedding can serve as a gift.
• If you truly want to buy them a wedding present but are strapped for cash right now due to the cost of travel and lodging, you have up to a year to do so.
• They'll appreciate it whenever you give it to them.
• Aware of Occasions When a Gift Is Not NecessaryWhile it is customary to offer gifts during a wedding and bridal shower, it might be helpful to remember that you are not obligated to do so.
• Donating money for gifts only on times where they are expected will help you stretch your dollar.
• Do I still need to bring a gift if I can't attend the wedding?Carlson argues, contrary to Emily Post, that if you've been invited somewhere, "you should always bring a present unless you've truly been out of contact for a considerable period of time."
• Sending a handwritten note with your best wishes is far more meaningful."
• If you are close with the newlyweds, it is customary to send a wedding present.
• Sending a gift instead of attending the wedding in person is a cost-effective way to show your congratulations, and the happy couple will surely enjoy the $30 wine opener you send them.
• What should I give as a wedding present if I want to bring a plus one to the wedding?Nowhere in the rules of wedding gift etiquette does it say that you need to give more money if you bring a date.
• When selecting how much money to offer the newlyweds, you should think about the total number of attendees, including yourself and any dates.
• Spend only what you can afford.
• Attending the wedding is more important than buying an expensive gift if you can't afford one but still want to show your support for the happy couple.
• When is the latest I may send a wedding gift to the newlyweds?
• The customary time frame for delivering a wedding present is one year.
• That being said, it's best to offer the gift as quickly as possible, according to etiquette experts.
• In the event that you forget to send a present until after the wedding, you have until the end of the third month to do so.
• Traditionally, a year is given to the couple to receive their present, but in today's world of fast and cheap shipping, it's best to get the gift to them as soon as possible.
• Gifts should be sent one to two weeks before the wedding to the couple's address (or the gift coordinator's address).
• Can I send a gift ahead of time or do I need to bring it with me to the wedding?"Instead of bringing the gift with you on the big day, it is customary to have it shipped to the happy couple's new home.
• Send the happy couple a gift in the mail.
• Since many couples receive numerous gifts, it can be more convenient for everyone if you mail your present directly to the couple or their gift coordinator's home rather than having them transport all of the presents from the venue.
• It's fine to hand the wedding's designated gift-handler any money you've included in a card for the happy couple.
• If you aren't sure how to wrap a gift, just follow the guidelines provided on the registry website.
• Can we still give them presents if they aren't on the registry?It is not considered bad form to give a wedding gift that wasn't in the couple's register.
• Assist the happy couple by making purchases from their register.
• Before settling on a wedding present, it is wise to peruse the happy couple's register.
• Not using the register to buy a present is not expected of you.