Are you attending a wedding soon and puzzled over the perfect amount to spend on a gift?  With wedding season in full swing, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and a twinge of anxiety about gift expenses—especially considering the costs of travel, attire, and more that add up quickly. This article will explore how much you should spend on a wedding gift.

How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding Gift

Deciding how much to spend on a wedding gift can seem daunting amidst vague guidelines and varied expectations. Generally, spending between $50 to $150 is common, depending on your relationship with the couple.

Acquaintances or coworkers might opt for a gift in the $50 to $75 range, whereas closer friends or family members typically spend $75 to $100. For those very close to you or if you are part of the wedding party, it's not unusual to spend $100 to $150 or more.

Pixabay | Pexels | Spending between $50 to $150 is common, depending on your relationship with the couple.

If your budget is tight, consider a thoughtful gift card from a store the couple loves or a smaller, meaningful item that fits within your means. The key is that any gift should reflect your capability and the personal connection you share with the couple, not just a random dollar amount.

Group Gifts For Expensive Gifts 

When eyeing pricier items on the registry that are beyond an individual budget, pooling resources with others offers a smart solution. This approach not only eases financial strain but also allows you to give a significant, cherished gift without overstretching. Group gifts can prove economical and substantial, particularly for wedding party members who've already incurred several expenses.

The Etiquette of Monetary Gifts

Giving cash has become increasingly acceptable and, in many cases, preferred, especially for couples who might already have established homes. The convenience of contributing to a honeymoon fund or savings through cash gifts makes it a practical choice. However, ensure you send your cash or check gift ahead of the wedding to avoid any day-of confusion or misplacement.

When and What to Gift for Destination Weddings

Destination weddings often incur significant expenses for guests, which the couple can acknowledge with the assurance that your presence is, indeed, a valuable gift. If you still wish to give something, consider timing your gift closer to your financial recovery from the travel expenses—sometimes even up to a year later.

Off-Registry Gifts: Yay or Nay?

While sticking to the registry simplifies the gift selection process, going off-registry isn't a faux pas, provided that you know the couple well enough to pick something you’re confident they will adore. An off-registry gift should be as thoughtful and desired as any item the couple listed.

Porapak Apichodilok | Pexels | An off-registry gift should be as thoughtful and desired as any item the couple listed.

Plus-One Protocol and Gift Timing

Bringing a date doesn’t necessarily mean you need to double the gift price. It’s more about the gesture than the value. Also, while traditional etiquette gives you up to a year to send a wedding gift, earlier is always better, allowing the couple to enjoy your gift amidst their post-wedding bliss.

Shipping vs. Hand-Delivering Gifts

Sending your gift directly to the couple’s home is usually preferable. It reduces the logistical stress on the wedding day and ensures the couple receives your gift safely. If you prefer to bring a gift in person, make sure it aligns with the couple’s guidelines and consider the practicalities of the event location and setup.

Prostooleh | Freepik | Sending your gift directly to the couple’s home reduces the logistical stress on the wedding day and ensures the couple receives your gift safely.

When deciding how much to spend on a wedding gift, consider your personal budget, your relationship with the couple, and the type of wedding they plan. Remember, the thought and love put into the gift truly count, not just the price tag.