It's Wedding Season - How Much Should I Spend On The Perfect Wedding Gift?
Posted: Tuesday, April 03, 2007
by Christine Steendahl
Dine Without Whine
Millions of people each year are invited to weddings and with the wedding services and receptions becoming more elaborate, most are wondering how much to spend on a gift for the bride and groom. There are numerous factors that should be considered when figuring out how much to spend on a gift. Here are some simple guidelines to follow.
The general rule of thumb when it comes to wedding gifts is definitely what you feel comfortable giving. Now saying that, there are many people that would like to ensure they give an amount that is neither too little nor too large. One consideration when choosing what kind of wedding gift to give is the the couple getting married. For first time marriages, they are just starting out and would usually appreciate a monetary gift more than anything else to help pay for their wedding costs, put a down payment on a new home, assist with furnishing an apartment, etc.
Obviously one consideration when choosing the amount of a wedding present is how well you know the couple getting married. If you are an immediate family member or a very close friend, a gift of money totaling several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars is not uncommon. It really depends on how much you can afford to give. Ultimately the couple is just happy to have those who are close to them in attendance for their wedding day. Of course some sort of gift is common etiquette.
For others attending the wedding, such as friends, co-workers and extended family members, you should usually give an amount that you think is equal to the cost of inviting you to the wedding. For instance, if you think the cost to invite both you and your guest is $100 than this amount is appropriate. If you are able to give this amount plus 25% to 50% extra, your gift will be kindly received.
You may consider asking the bride and groom if they are registered somewhere, you can then pick out a gift they actually want, saving them the hassle of making a return after their wedding. Traditionally the couple would register for basics such china and place settings. Today couples register for a variety of items including anything from food processors to board games. A gift should be a token of affection. They may also be delivered to the reception. In this case family members will be responsible for seeing that all presents are delivered to the newly wed couple.
Gifts of money can be sent to the happy couple right after you receive an invitation to their wedding. For those giving actual gifts and gifts of money, the rules are usually the same.
In any case a proper card should accompany every gift, whether it be monetary or otherwise. A card can express your thoughts for the bride and groom. Never underestimate the importance of a great card.
Deciding on a wedding gift should not be difficult. The happy couple are embarking on a new phase of their lives together. They will be happy with whatever present you give them.
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