Wondering what gifts are best for the wedding you are attending is pretty darn common. Do you go with the registry, or a monetary gift? If opting for the latter, how much should you spend? Weddings are expensive in terms of parties/special events, which is why free booze is a reception staple. Any couple that does not provide at least wine and beer at their wedding reception…well, let’s not get into that! Use the following tips to help you navigate the somewhat-challenging waters of wedding giftdom.
The Breakdown
According to TheKnot.com, it is a good idea to break down the wedding gift thang as follows: 20 percent spent on the engagement gift, 20 percent on the bridal shower, and 60 percent on the wedding gift. Spending too much on an engagement is not the best idea, as you will feel compelled to spend more on the wedding gift or give a less-than-awesome-but-cheap gift. Either way, it does not work out for you so well.
Wedding Gift $$ Limit
TheKnot.com recommends spending $75 to $100 on a wedding present for a co-worker or distant friend. However, if you can only budget $50 and you don’t know the bride and groom that well, don’t panic. You’re doing what you can, and that in itself is a gift. The wedding site also recommends spending between $100 and $125 on a wedding gift for a close friend or family member. The average amount friends spend on a present is $79, while the average family members spend is $146.
Monetary Or No?
Giving the gift of money is a perfectly lovely gift, especially if you know the happy couple will be somewhat strapped for cash. The typical monetary wedding gift is $150, but again, if you can only budget $100 or less, don’t worry about it. Brides and grooms understand that not everyone attending their wedding is in a great place financially, so refrain from feeling bad if you can only give what you can afford. Personal or handmade gifts also work if you are not as flush as you would like to be.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
