Wedding gifts are an important part of the wedding celebration. They are a way for guests to show their love and support for the happy couple. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide what to give. In this article, we will cover the dos and don'ts of wedding gift-giving and answer some common questions about wedding gifts.

Wedding Gift Etiquette 

Wedding gifting etiquette refers to the traditions and rules surrounding the giving of wedding gifts. It is important to consider the couple's needs and preferences when choosing a wedding gift. A thoughtful and personalized gift can make a lasting impression on the happy couple and help them remember their special day.

What is the Rule for Wedding Gifts?

While there's no hard and fast rule for wedding gifts, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. First, it's typically expected that you'll bring a gift to the wedding or send one before or after the event. Second, it's considered polite to choose a gift from the couple's wedding registry if they have one. Finally, your gift should reflect your relationship with the couple, your budget, and your own personal style.

How Much Money Should You Spend on a Wedding Gift?

This is a tricky question, as there's no set amount that's considered "appropriate" for a wedding gift. Ultimately, the amount you spend on a wedding gift should be based on your budget and your relationship with the couple. If you're close with the couple and have a larger budget, you might consider giving a more expensive gift or giving cash. On the other hand, if you're on a tighter budget, a smaller gift or a group gift might be more appropriate.

While the rule of thumb for wedding gift spending is to give what you can afford, the average amount spent on a wedding gift is between $50 to $200. However, factors such as your relationship with the couple, the cost of attending the wedding, and your financial situation can influence the amount you should spend. It is also important to consider whether you are attending the wedding as a single guest or as a couple.

Is $100 enough for a wedding gift from a couple?

Yes, $100 is a perfectly acceptable amount for a wedding gift from a couple. While it might not be as extravagant as some gifts, it's still a thoughtful gesture that the couple is sure to appreciate.  $100 can be considered a good gift from a couple, especially if it is a thoughtful and personalized gift.

Is $300 a good wedding gift from a couple?

Again, there's no set amount that's considered "appropriate" for a wedding gift. However, $300 is a generous gift that would be greatly appreciated by most couples. Of course, the amount you spend on a wedding gift should always be based on your budget and your relationship with the couple.

How to stay within your budget while still giving thoughtful gifts

Staying within your budget while still giving thoughtful gifts is important for all gifting occasions related to weddings. Consider shopping early to find good deals and discounts, making your own DIY gifts, or pooling money with a group to purchase a larger, more meaningful gift. Remember, it's the thought and effort put into the gift that counts the most.  

What Not to Give as a Wedding Gift?

While it may be tempting to give a quirky or humorous gift, it is important to remember that a wedding gift should be thoughtful and personalized. Some examples of gifts to avoid include re-gifted items, cash in a plain envelope, and gift cards without a personal message.  Also, it's generally not a good idea to give gifts that are overly personal or risqué, such as lingerie or sex toys. 

Instead, consider giving a custom or personalized gift that reflects the couple's interests or lifestyle. Alternatively, contribute to the couple's registry to ensure that they receive something they need or want.

Is It Rude Not to Give a Wedding Gift?

While it's not necessarily "rude" to attend a wedding without bringing a gift, it's considered a common courtesy to bring a gift or send one before or after the event. Weddings are expensive affairs, and most couples appreciate any help they can get in starting their new life together. Even if you can't afford an expensive gift, a small token of your love and support can go a long way.

Not giving a wedding gift can be seen as a lack of respect for the couple and their special day. If you cannot afford a gift, there are other ways to show your support for the couple, such as writing a heartfelt card or offering to help with wedding preparations.

Do You Give Both a Gift and Money at a Wedding?

Traditionally, guests would give a physical gift, such as a household item, as well as cash or a check. However, in modern times, it is becoming more common to give one or the other. If you choose to give both a gift and money, make sure they are both thoughtful and personalized. Alternatively, consider giving a group gift with other guests to ensure that the couple receives a high-quality gift that they will love.

What percentage of wedding guests don't give gifts?

It's hard to say exactly what percentage of wedding guests don't give gifts, as there's no official data on the subject. However, it's safe to say that most guests do bring a gift or send one before or after the wedding. Remember, weddings are expensive affairs, and most couples appreciate any help they can get in starting their

What Are the Best Wedding Gifts to Give?

The best wedding gifts are those that are personalized, custom, and thoughtful. Examples of personalized gifts include monogrammed or engraved items, such as wine glasses or picture frames. Custom gifts can include items that reflect the couple's interests or lifestyle, such as a personalized cookbook or a custom painting. Thoughtful gifts can be anything from a spa day for the couple to a weekend getaway to their favorite destination. Group gifts can also be a great option for guests who want to give a more expensive or high-quality gift. 

Other Gifting Occasions Related to Weddings

Aside from wedding gifts, there are several other gifting occasions related to weddings that are important to consider. These include bridal shower gift-giving etiquette, engagement gift-giving etiquette, and bridesmaids and groomsmen gift-giving etiquette.

Bridal Shower Gifting Etiquette

Bridal showers are usually held a few weeks before the wedding and are a great opportunity for guests to shower the bride-to-be with gifts. It's important to consult the bride's registry to ensure you're getting her something she really wants and needs. When it comes to budget, it's best to spend what you can afford, but a good rule of thumb is to aim for around $50 to $100 for a bridal shower gift.

Engagement Gifts Etiquette

Engagement gifts are another way to celebrate the happy couple before their wedding day. While not mandatory, they're a thoughtful gesture that the couple will appreciate. Personalized gifts such as custom glasses and coasters,  custom-engraved picture frame or a monogrammed blanket can be a great option for engagement gifts. It's also important to keep budget in mind and spend what you can afford.

Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Gift Giving Etiquette

When it comes to bridesmaids and groomsmen gift-giving etiquette, it's important to thank them for their support and participation in the wedding. A thoughtful gift such as a personalized tote bag or a customized beer glass can show your appreciation. It's also important to keep budget in mind and spend what you can afford, but a good rule of thumb is to aim for around $50 to $100 per bridesmaid or groomsman.

Conclusion

Giving wedding gifts is an important part of celebrating the marriage of a happy couple. It allows guests to show their support and love for the couple as they embark on a new journey together. While there are many dos and don'ts when it comes to wedding gift-giving, it ultimately comes down to the thought and effort put into the gift.

Remember to always consider the couple's registry and budget when choosing a gift. Personalized and custom gifts are also a great way to show thoughtfulness and make the gift more meaningful. And while it's not mandatory to give a wedding gift, it's always appreciated and shows the couple that you care.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to celebrate the happy couple and the love they share. By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your wedding gift is a cherished and memorable part of their special day.

About Shadow Breeze

Shadow Breeze is a premier gifting company offering personalized gifts including custom gift baskets, boxes, crate and individual gifts for weddings, birthdays, holidays, mother's day, father's day, and much more.   

We also are a full service corporate gifting company offering gifting services for organizations of all sizes.