How Much To Spend on a Wedding Gift: Main Tips, Rules & Real Advice

Determining how much to spend on a wedding gift without breaking any wedding gift etiquette is a sensitive affair.

The average wedding gift amount 2024 guests will spent on gifts will be about $100-$140 per person. This is owing to the many pre-wedding festivities, associated expenses, and a long list of wedding gift ideas. Here, we will tell you the average wedding gift cost, gift etiquette, and how much to spend on gifts per wedding situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much To Spend On A Wedding Gift: The Expert Opinion

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How Much To Spend On A Wedding Gift

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In the words of wedding etiquette expert, Diane Gottsman, wedding gifts are neither mandatory nor costs set in stone, but a show of support to the couple. She opines that how much you spend on a wedding should depend mainly on your budget and relationships with the couple. Other factors to note are how much of the wedding expenses are covered by the couple and your role in the wedding.

As such, research by NerdWallet shows that the average gift amount is about $151 and guests are willing to spend up to $350 per situation. From buying bridal shower gifts to wedding proper, people are willing to spend more.

The RetailMeNot poll shows that an American will spend an average of $140 on wedding gifts.

41% believe that gifts are mandatory for weddings. 37% believe that even if you got them something before the wedding, say bachelor party gifts, you should still get them a wedding gift.

Now, for every amount featured, you are to double if you have extras tagging along (this is very optional). Again, these amounts are only calculated per adult head, no kids.

What’s the Expected Amount for a Wedding Gift?

How Much Money Do You Give At A Wedding?

How much to give at weddings is always a source of debate amongst wedding guests. Well, how much money you should give at a wedding depends on your relationship and your attendance status. But the minimum check that’s allowed is $50. Don’t go below it.

For a colleague or acquaintance, $50 to $75 is acceptable. You can work within that range at your discretion. For a family or someone close to you, $75 to $100 and even as high as $150 is perfect. Then if you’re going as a couple, it’s routine to double the amount or keep it at $200.

How Much To Spend On Wedding Gift If I Am Invited To A Luxury Wedding?

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What to give as a wedding gift or how much to spend should not be decided by the class of the wedding. The appropriate wedding gift amount remains the same whether you’re attending a wedding in a park or a grand castle. Do not turn down invites or feel pressured by an exotic ambiance, the pedigree of the couple, or 5-course meals.

Avoid straining your budget to buy a befitting gift. Your wedding gift cost is absolute on your relationship with the couple. They chose to have a luxury wedding and that’s not your problem.

Can We Give A Group Wedding Gift?

A group wedding gift is ideal if all the ideas for wedding registry the couple comes up with is bigger than your budget. You may also have your eyes on something specifically pricey for the couple but are not buoyant enough. This is where you join forces with either close friends or family. It is even better if you are part of the bridal party. You will present something huge as a group.

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This is a means to get more and save more. Buying a wedding gift as a group saves you from spending as much if you bought it independently.

How Much To Give For A Wedding If There’s An Engagement Party Too?

How much to give for a wedding is synonymous with your availability for the wedding. It is well-advised that you split your budget for the wedding gift into 25% / 75%. 25% on engagement gifts and the remaining 75% on gifts for the main wedding. Something like wine, a box of chocolates or a box of cupcakes will do.

If you will not be available for the main wedding and the couple means a lot to you, follow Diane Gottsman’s principle. Browse through their engagement gift ideas and pick something that’s equivalent to the amount you would spend on a wedding gift.

Should I increase the amount of my wedding gift if I have a plus one?

Yes, if you have a plus one, consider increasing the wedding gift amount by $25 to $50 to reflect the additional guest.

Do I have to buy a shower gift and a wedding gift?

If you’re wondering how much to give for a wedding gift, you generally don’t have to buy both a shower gift and a wedding gift. You can choose to give one thoughtful gift, and if you’re attending both events, you might adjust the amount based on your budget.

Can I Give Wedding Gifts That Aren’t On The Registry?

About-to-wed couples come up with wedding registry ideas that suit their needs, fit their lifestyle, and are valuable to them. If these registry items are out of your budget range, you can still choose a wedding gift that is not on the registry. However, how much to spend on a wedding gift should align with the couple’s preferences, ensuring that the gift is meaningful and useful to them.

If you have a very close relationship, you will know their tastes and the things they would love. If you’re absolutely certain, you can buy them something not on the registry and it will be a hit!

Can I Give Cash As A Wedding Gift?

Yes, you can! The world is dynamic, so are people. A lot of couples live together these days before marriage and have their houses well stocked. Others want to bag pack and travel the world, so they don’t need gifts. Some couples do not even create a registry but make available cash payment methods.

So yes, you can pay cash and it is very convenient. The best is if you’re paying directly into an account or towards a cause like honeymoon packages. Do well to send it in before the wedding.

Tips To Know How Much A Wedding Gift Should Cost

The amount to spend on a wedding gift can vary based on several factors, including your relationship with the couple, your budget, local customs, and the location of the wedding. While there’s no fixed rule, here are some general guidelines:

1. Consider Your Relationship: The closer you are to the couple, the more you might consider spending. Close friends and family members often give more substantial gifts than acquaintances.
2. Cover Your Plate: Some suggest that your gift’s value should at least cover the cost of your attendance at the wedding. This could include factors like the cost of your meal, travel, and accommodations.
3. Average Range: On average, guests often spend around $50 to $150 on a wedding gift. However, this can vary widely based on individual circumstances.
4. Group Gifts: If you’re part of a group gift, you might contribute a larger amount collectively.
5. Registry Guidance: Wedding registries can provide insight into the couple’s preferences and needs. You can choose a gift within your budget from the registry.
6. Personalized Gifts: If you have a special talent or skill, consider giving a personalized gift that holds sentimental value.

Remember, the most important thing is the thought and effort you put into the gift. It’s the sentiment behind the gesture that truly matters. If you’re uncertain, you could also consider giving a heartfelt card along with a smaller token gift. Always consider your own financial situation and what feels comfortable for you.

Do I Have To Buy A Gift For A Destination Wedding?

A destination wedding is not a cheap one, so, much is not expected on the part of gifts. We believe that the best gifts the couple can get are the presence of the guests because they made huge sacrifices. After heavy travel logistics and some cash to get by, gifts are not necessary. But if you feel up to it, go right ahead!

How Much To Spend On A Wedding Gift If I Am Not Attending?

What to give for a wedding gift if not attending depends on your relationship with the couple. How much to give for a wedding gift is dependent on your financial disposition per time. If you have a personal relationship with the couple and can’t make it, send a healthy gift.

If you feel you were a last-minute guest consideration to a couple you aren’t close to, send a handwritten congratulations. This may be through the RSVP. You are also saved from spending as much as you would have spent if present. A gift between $30 – $40 will do.

Wedding Gift Check Etiquette: How To Send?

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How to appropriately send a wedding gift in the form of a check is by addressing it to either the husband or wife. This will enable them to cash it, instead of getting a bounce at the bank due to a conflict in account details. If you have the urge to add a complimentary message, then pen it down in the part of the check allocated to comments.

It is very wrong to address a joint check to newlyweds using their new surname. That is an assumption on your part as you don’t know if they will retain their individual names.

How Long To Give A Gift After The Wedding?

The honest fact is that the earlier you can send a new couple your gift, the better. It is more interesting opening gifts while the wedding glow and rush are still present. But do not put yourself under any kind of pressure. If you are not financially or emotionally up to the task of getting a gift during the wedding, rest easy. You have up to one year after the wedding to send in your gifts. Do it at your own convenience and who knows? It may be a pleasant surprise to the couple.

Alternative Wedding Gift Ideas

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Experiential Gifts

Instead of asking how much to give for a wedding gift, consider offering experiences. This might include tickets to an event, a class or workshop they would enjoy, or a weekend getaway. You can also choose memberships or subscriptions that align with their interests.

Charitable Donations

Another thoughtful option is to donate to a charity in the couple’s name. This can be a meaningful alternative to traditional gifts and can be a great way to honor the couple’s values. Provide a certificate or card to let them know about the donation made in their honor.

Tips for Determining Your Budget on a Wedding Gift

• Let your heart guide your generosity: Think about the love and connection you share with the couple. Allow your emotional bond to inspire the extent of your gift, showing them just how much they mean to you.
• Craft a gift that reflects their journey: Consider the couple’s unique story and passions. Create a gift that embodies their journey together or supports their future endeavors. Your personal touch will make the gift all the more meaningful.
• Strike a harmony between love and practicality: While weddings are special, it’s important to remain mindful of your own financial situation. Seek out a gift that beautifully balances the couple’s desires and your budget, ensuring your gesture is both heartfelt and practical.

Remember, the value of a gift lies not in its price tag, but in the love and thoughtfulness behind it. Trust your instincts and choose a gift that resonates with your connection to the couple, making your gesture truly unforgettable.

How Much To Spend On Wedding Gift: Real People Talk

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As much as the experts know, it will be nice to hear real people who have had actual experiences talk. Many of them consider the cost of gifts based on their closeness to the couple and some match whatever they were gifted at theirs. Others think the luxury of the wedding should count, while a few prefer donating cash or paying towards a cause.
Testimonials from real people:

• Miki, a 34-year-old female who has helped plan weddings for lots of people is sympathetic to the plight of couples. She says wedding expenses are not cheap and everyone should give at least $100 for wedding gifts. Give from $200 or above if you come with a plus one. She, on the other hand, says she has given up to $500 to her close friends.
• Jess who is 27 years old says that she will give more towards wedding gifts if the wedding is a luxurious one.

“$200-$250. But in certain cases, depending on how long I’ve known the person and how many other weddings or big events I have that season, I will give more. I usually give on the higher end if it’s at a really swanky place, but in most cases, the parents are helping out, so I don’t feel as bad about not covering plates for me and my fiancé”.

• Meg, 31 years old is one who matches every gift she gets with an equal gift. She says she wrote on cards, how much each guest gifted her at her wedding and she gifts exactly that back to them. This way, she says the average they spend on wedding gifts is $50-$75 per person, which also depends on how posh the place is.
• Christina who is 28 years says that she would rather give cash or pay towards a cause/experience than buy a gift. She says it makes her feel better because cash experience will neither wear out like down comforters nor break like chinaware. She will give $50 – $100 in cash, towards a honeymoon trip or posh restaurant meals vouchers instead.

All the rules on how much to spend on a wedding gift mentioned above are thoughts from experts. We have also put down valuable information that you can use through the narratives of real wedding guests. So, you will be well informed through this post of every wedding gift etiquette to observe. From how much to spend on a gift per situation to how late your gifts can be delivered to the couple. Thus, you will ease yourself of pressure, gift right, save more, and maintain a healthy relationship with the happy couple!