These days, the cost of weddings can be staggering, and guests are often left wondering how much they should spend on a gift. After all, it’s a special occasion, and they want to give something that will be appreciated.
There are some general rules that can help you decide on an appropriate amount, but there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to how much you should spend on a wedding present. What happens, however, if your budget is limited? A meaningful present is still possible to give. And what should the cost of the couple’s gift be?
Quick Answer
Most experts agree that between $50 and $200 is an appropriate range for wedding gifts. The answer, of course, depends on your relationship with the bride and groom and on your own budget.
Gift-giving Protocol for Weddings
Typically, wedding guests gift the couple either before or after the wedding. The amount that you should spend on a gift depends on a few different factors, such as your relationship with the couple and your budget.
If you are close friends or family members of the bridal party, then you may want to spend a little more on your gift. It is also common to give money as a gift if you can’t find anything else to buy.
But if you don’t know the couple very well, it’s fine to spend less. It is always great to be kind and give the couple something they will value, regardless of the situation.
How Much Money Ought to be Spent on a Wedding Gift?
The amount you spend on a wedding gift should be relative to how close you are to the couple and your financial situation.
That said, there are a few general guidelines you can follow when it comes to deciding how much to spend on a wedding gift.
- If you are close friends or family members of the bride or groom or a member of the bridal party, it is a great rule of thumb to give a gift that is worth somewhere between $75 and $200 for a destination wedding.
- As an average guest who does not know the couple very well or are not very close to them, you can either give a lower-priced gift or go with the $50-$75 range.
- And if you are attending a more expensive wedding, it’s okay to spend a bit more than usual on your gift.
According to statistics from “the Knot”, the average cost per head for attending a wedding registry in 2021 was $460, based on the data collected from 1,000 guests who attended weddings that year. After a difficult 2020, 68% of guests were willing to spend extra money on weddings, most frequently on presents for the bride or groom.
Creative Ideas for Giving an Engagement Gift
There are many creative ways to give a wedding gift—even if you’re on a tight budget.
One option is to browse through the internet and check for some unique sets of gifts for couples for the best price/utlility ratio. If you’re looking for creative ways to make any couple’s day, check out these creative ideas below.
Gift Basket
Why not think of buying a basket that has all of the couple’s favorite items if you’re stumped for what to get them? The newlyweds will appreciate this kind of gift, which was given with thought.
To create the perfect basket, start by gathering together some of the couple’s favorite snacks, drinks, and treats. You can also include some of their favorite items from around town, such as restaurant gift cards, beautiful dresses, boxes of costume jewelry (which can contain diamond drop earrings, crown jewels, and chunky gold jewelry), and satin trim, which can cost you a bit of money.
you have any special memories or moments between the two of them, be sure to include those as well. The final touch is to wrap it all up in a pretty bow and deliver it to the happy couple.
A Customized Map
If the couple loves to travel, then a customized map would make an excellent wedding gift. This is a relatively simple gift to make, and it can be tailored to fit the couple’s specific interests.
For example, you could create a map of the world that highlights all of the places the couple has been together. Or, you could create a map of the United States that highlights all of the states they have visited together. Either way, this is a thoughtful and unique gift that is sure to be appreciated by the newlywed.
A Custom Photo Album
One of the most popular gifts for a wedding is a custom photo album or scrapbook. This is a great gift because it is personal and meaningful, and it can be tailored to fit the couple’s specific interests.
When creating a custom photo album, start by gathering together some of the couple’s favorite photos. Then, choose a theme for the album and create custom pages to go along with it. For example, if the couple loves nature, you could create a nature-themed album with beautiful photos of flowers and trees. If you’re not sure where to start, there are a number of online tutorials that can help you create a custom photo album.
Gift Them an Experience Voucher
If you want a gift that is a little more distinctive than the typical selection, consider giving the couple an experience voucher. This could be for event tickets to a show or a day at a spa.
You can give them a gift that they can enjoy together and cherish long after the actual wedding day. It is a unique and thoughtful gift that is sure to be appreciated.
No matter what you decide, the most essential thing is to put some thought into it and to make sure it’s at least something.
What Are Some Tips for Avoiding Common Gifting Mistakes?
When choosing a wedding gift, it’s important to consider your budget, relationship with the couple and the thoughtfulness of your gift.
Also, keep your spending within your means, consider spending more on gifts for close friends and family, and if you’re part of the wedding party, you may be expected to spend more.
To make your gift stand out, add a personal touch and choose something that the couple will appreciate and need. Avoid generic or impersonal gifts.
In short, be mindful of your budget, relationship with the couple, and put thought into the gift to make it special and memorable.
FAQs
How Do You Go About Exchanging a Wedding Gift?
It’s best to exchange your wedding gifts as soon as possible. Most couples provide their guests with a registry where they can choose a gift, so if you’re unsure of what to give them, that might be the best place to start.
How Much Money Is Appropriate as a Wedding Gift?
Generally, the cost of a wedding gift should be determined by your relationship to the engaged couple. You should also take into account how much you can afford to spend and whether or not you will be attending the wedding.
What Is the Average Wedding Gift Cost in 2022?
The average wedding gift cost in 2022 is expected to be $154. This is slightly higher than the average wedding gift cost in 2020, which was $149.
Do You Give Money at a Wedding?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to give cash as a wedding gift. In fact, many couples prefer cash gifts because they can put the money towards their honeymoon, a down payment on a house, or other financial goals.
Is It Better to Give Cash or a Check for a Wedding Gift?
It depends on your relationship with the couple getting married. If you are very close to friends or family, it is better to give a cash gift. If you are less close, a check is appropriate.
Final Thoughts
The general consensus when it comes to wedding gift etiquette is that guests should spend around $50-$200 on a gift. This price range is considered the best balance by most people. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule (especially if you’re close friends with the couple), but in general, this is the recommended amount.
If you want to give the newlyweds something special that they’ll truly appreciate, make a cash donation in their name. This will allow them to put the money towards whatever they need most as they start their new life together. A handwritten note is always a nice touch to include with your wedding gift, no matter what the present may be.
