The average wedding gift amount is between $50 and $150, depending on your relationship to the couple and your budget. That said, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s break it down by scenario, plus, we’ll show you how a wedding registry (like MyRegistry.com!) can help simplify the decision.
Figuring out how much to spend on a wedding gift can feel tricky. You want to show appreciation for the couple while staying within your financial comfort zone. This guide will help you navigate wedding gift etiquette with confidence and clarity.
Quick Guide: How Much to Spend Based on Your Relationship
When determining your wedding gift budget, your relationship with the couple is often the most significant factor. Here’s a handy reference:
- Coworker/Acquaintance: $50–$75
- Friend or Extended Family: $75–$125
- Close Friend or Close Family Member: $100–$150+
- Bridal Party or Best Friend: $150+
Remember that your budget matters more than social pressure. The most meaningful gifts come from the heart, regardless of price tag. If your finances are tight, it’s perfectly acceptable to give what you can comfortably afford, even if it’s below these ranges.
Registry vs. Cash: What’s Better?
When deciding how much to give for a wedding gift, you’ll likely consider whether to purchase a physical item or provide a monetary gift.
Registry Gifts:
- Ensure the couple receives something they’ve specifically chosen
- Add a personal touch to your giving
- Often come with gift receipts for easy exchanges if needed
- Buying off the couple’s registry (like MyRegistry.com!) helps ensure your gift is something they truly want
Cash or Check:
- Provides maximum flexibility for the couple
- Helps fund honeymoons, home down payments, or other large expenses
- Eliminates the risk of duplicate gifts
- Often preferred in certain cultural traditions
A universal wedding registry like MyRegistry.com offers the best of both worlds. Couples can add items from any store, plus cash funds for special experiences or savings goals. This makes it easier for guests to choose gifts that align with their budget and the couple’s wishes.
How Group Gifting Helps You Spend Smarter
Not sure how to afford that perfect gift? Consider teaming up with others! Group gifting allows friends or family members to split the cost of a higher-ticket item while still giving something meaningful.
For example, a $300 cookware set might be beyond your budget, but becomes much more manageable when split among four coworkers at $75 each. MyRegistry.com supports group gifting features that make coordination simple and seamless.
Group gifting benefits include:
- The ability to give higher-quality, longer-lasting items
- Less stress on individual budgets
- A more substantial gift that the couple will truly appreciate
- The joy of collaborating with others to celebrate the couple
How to Set a Wedding Gift Budget
When determining your maximum spend for wedding gifts, consider these factors:
Your Relationship: As outlined above, closer relationships typically warrant more generous gifts. However, this isn’t a strict rule, many couples understand that gift values vary based on individual circumstances.
Additional Wedding Expenses: If you’re traveling for the wedding, covering hotel costs, or participating in multiple wedding events (engagement parties, showers, bachelor/bachelorette celebrations), factor these expenses into your overall wedding budget.
Your Financial Situation: Your gift should reflect your current financial reality, not an idealized notion of generosity. The couple wants your presence and good wishes more than an extravagant gift that causes you financial strain.
Cultural Expectations: Some cultural traditions have specific gift-giving customs. For example, in some communities, cash gifts in specific denominations are customary, while others focus on household items to help establish the new home.
When to Give More (or Less)
Certain wedding scenarios might influence how much to spend on a wedding gift:
Destination Weddings: When couples choose a destination wedding, guests often incur significant travel expenses. In these cases, it’s generally acceptable to give a smaller gift or even just a thoughtful card, as your presence itself requires financial commitment.
Elopements or Intimate Ceremonies: For elopements followed by a celebration, gift expectations are typically more relaxed. Since you weren’t present for the ceremony itself, a modest gift that acknowledges their union is appropriate.
Second Marriages: For couples who are remarrying, especially those who already have established households, consider experience gifts or contributions to a honeymoon fund rather than traditional household items.
Not Attending the Wedding: If you’re unable to attend but still wish to send a gift, most etiquette experts suggest giving something within the lower end of your relationship-appropriate range. A thoughtful card with your well wishes is always appreciated.
FAQs About Wedding Gift Spending
Is it rude to give less than $100? Not at all! The average wedding gift amount varies widely, and gifts under $100 are common and appropriate, especially for coworkers or casual acquaintances. The thought behind your gift matters more than the dollar amount.
Should I bring the gift to the wedding or ship it? Shipping directly to the couple’s home is generally preferred, especially for larger items. This saves them from transporting gifts after the celebration. If giving cash or a small item, bringing it to the reception is perfectly acceptable.
Is it okay to give a handmade or non-registry gift? Handmade gifts can be incredibly meaningful if they reflect your talents and the couple’s tastes. For non-registry purchases, try to ensure the item aligns with the couple’s style and needs. When in doubt, include a gift receipt.
When selecting a wedding gift, the most important consideration is finding something that meaningfully celebrates the couple’s new chapter together, regardless of price point. A well-chosen gift in your comfort range will always be appreciated.
When in doubt, stick to the wedding registry
MyRegistry.com makes gifting easy by letting you shop from all the couple’s favorite stores in one place, so you can give meaningfully, no matter your budget. A universal wedding registry eliminates guesswork and ensures the couple receives items they truly want and need for their new life together.
Whether you choose a modest kitchen gadget, contribute to a group gift, or provide a cash contribution toward a bigger goal, your thoughtfulness in celebrating their special day is what matters.
Sharing Is Caring
With a Universal Wedding Registry, everyone benefits. Couples share exactly what they want, and gift-givers have the convenience of a single, shoppable destination. Once a universal registry has been created, it can easily be shared with friends and family via eCard, customized URL, or social media.
Planning Your Wedding?
It’s easy to create a wedding registry on MyRegistry.com and add gifts from any store in the world, from large online retailers to your favorite local shops.
Looking for Wedding Registry Gift Ideas?
Find wedding gifts and wedding registry essentials on our Wedding Registry Inspiration Boards.
