Weddings And Gifts: 25 Dollars, A Thoughtful Gesture

Wedding gift-giving can be a tricky business, and it's often difficult to know how much to spend. While it's not mandatory to give a gift, it is customary and expected, especially if you're close to the couple. According to Zola, the average person spends $50 to $100 on a wedding gift, with $50 to $75 for coworkers or distant relatives, $75 to $100 for friends or relatives, and $100 to $150 for close friends, family members, or wedding party members. However, these are just guidelines, and there is no minimum or maximum amount that guests should spend. It's also worth noting that cash is becoming an increasingly common and acceptable gift, with many couples registering for cash funds and gift cards. When deciding how much to give, it's important to consider your relationship with the couple, your budget, and the cost of your attendance at the wedding. Ultimately, you should spend what you're comfortable with and what fits within your budget.

$25 is an appropriate amount if you are an acquaintance or co-worker of the couple

$25 is an appropriate amount to give as a wedding gift if you are an acquaintance or co-worker of the couple. While there is no hard-and-fast rule on how much cash to give, wedding guests typically spend between $50 and $100 on a gift, with $50 to $75 being the suggested amount for co-workers or distant relatives.

If you are attending with a plus-one, Zola's guidelines suggest spending one-and-a-half to two times more on the gift, so in this case, you might consider giving up to $50. However, this is not a requirement, and you should only spend what you can comfortably afford.

If you are unable to afford $25, you may want to consider buying a gift from the registry instead, or going in on a group gift.

The average wedding gift is $100 per guest

The amount of money you should give as a wedding gift depends on a range of factors, including your budget, your relationship with the couple, and the cost of attending the wedding. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to wedding gift amounts, the average wedding gift is $100 per guest, which can be adjusted based on your relationship with the couple, your budget, and other factors. Here are some guidelines and factors to consider when determining how much to give.

Wedding Gift Amount Guidelines

According to wedding experts, it is generally recommended to start cash gifts at around $100 per guest. This amount can be adjusted upwards, depending on various factors. For example, if you are particularly close to the couple, you might consider increasing the gift amount to $150 or more. On the other hand, if your budget is tight, you may opt for a less expensive gift or an item from the registry. It is important to remember that there is no minimum or maximum amount expected of guests, and your gift should be within a comfortable range for your financial situation.

Relationship with the Couple

One crucial factor in determining the wedding gift amount is your relationship with the bride and groom. Typically, the closer you are to the couple, the more you are expected to give. For instance, you might consider giving a larger gift to a family member or close friend than you would to a distant relative or coworker. If you are part of the wedding party or have contributed significantly to the wedding preparations, you may also want to reflect that in your gift amount.

Budget Constraints

Your budget is a significant consideration when deciding on a wedding gift. It is essential to determine how much you can comfortably afford to spend without straining your finances. If you have a limited budget, it is perfectly acceptable to opt for a less expensive gift or a group gift with other guests. Additionally, if attending the wedding incurs significant costs, such as travel and accommodation, you may want to adjust your gift amount accordingly.

Attendance Costs

Traditional etiquette suggests that your wedding gift should cover at least the cost of your attendance at the wedding, including the cost of your meal. This can serve as a starting point for determining the gift amount. However, it is not a hard-and-fast rule, and you should primarily consider your budget and relationship with the couple when deciding.

In conclusion, while the average wedding gift amount is $100 per guest, it is essential to consider your unique circumstances when determining how much to give. Remember, the most important thing is to give within your means and choose a gift that reflects your relationship with the couple.

If you are flying solo and a casual friend, you can spend $75-$100

If you are flying solo and attending a wedding as a casual friend, it is customary to spend $75 to $100 on a gift for the happy couple. Here are some ideas within this budget:

Homeware

Homeware is a great go-to wedding gift, especially if the couple has registered for specific items. Here are some options under $100:

• A set of copper mugs for $49.99
• A set of glass mixing bowls for $44.95
• A marble and brass serving board for $49.95
• A set of glass appetizer plates for $24.95
• A set of stylish vases for $49.99 and up
• A set of elegant cocktail glasses for $54.95
• A set of sleek flatware for $99.99
• A set of glass serving bowls for $31.60
• A marble cake stand for $49.99
• A set of gold appetizer plates for $24.95
• A set of marble cake stand/servers for $49.99
• A set of glass tealight candle holders for $19.95
• A set of glass bowls with lids for $69.99
• A set of bamboo cutting boards for $17.99
• A set of bamboo cheese boards for $42.99
• A set of glass appetizer plates for $24.95
• A set of bamboo serving and cutting boards for $17.99
• A set of glass bowls in various sizes for $44.95
• A set of glass bowls with lids for $69.99

Kitchen Appliances

If the couple enjoys cooking, consider getting them a kitchen appliance. Here are some options under $100:

• A Crock-Pot for $79.99
• A waffle maker for $29.62
• A French press for $59.95
• A blender/food processor for $79.99
• A pizza stone and cutter for $42.99
• A cast-iron skillet for $29.90

Personalized Gifts

Personalized gifts are always a great option to make the couple feel special. Here are some ideas under $100:

• A personalized photo frame for $33
• A personalized street sign canvas for $99.99
• A personalized couples blanket for $69.99
• A personalized photo blanket for $69.99
• A personalized serving tray for $83.99
• A personalized wine barrel for $90
• A personalized home art frame for $99.95
• A set of engraved crystal champagne flutes for $69.99
• A personalized salad serving bowl for $55.99
• A personalized stainless steel beverage tub for $55.99
• A personalized oval serving tray for $83.99
• A personalized butcher block board for $99.99
• A set of personalized champagne flutes for $135
• A personalized LP record for $168
• A set of personalized champagne flutes for $135

Experience Gifts

If the couple is more interested in experiences than physical gifts, consider gifting them an activity or subscription. Here are some ideas under $100:

• A wine club subscription for $60 and up
• An Airbnb gift card for $25 and up
• A gift card for a flight
• A gift card for a romantic dinner
• A pizza or dessert club subscription

Other Ideas

If you are still unsure about what to gift, here are some other ideas under $100:

• A cookbook for $13.69
• A heated massager for $64.95
• A personalized silver photo frame for $55
• A set of Moscow Mule mugs for $49.99
• A candle for $70
• A bathtub caddy for $55
• A picnic backpack for $43.84
• A ring dish for $50
• A trinket dish for $50
• A set of wine glasses for $89.99
• A throw blanket for $38.99
• A set of bath towels for $63.75
• A set of wine glasses for $89.99
• A photo stand for $20 and up

If you are immediate family, consider giving $100 or more

If you are immediate family, it is generally expected that you will give a more substantial gift than other guests. Wedding experts advise that cash gifts start at $100 and go up to $500, depending on your relationship with the couple, your budget, and the cost of your attendance at the wedding.

As a parent, sibling, or godparent, you are likely very close with the couple and have a unique perspective on their relationship. Your gift should reflect this closeness and shared history. Depending on your budget, a range of $300 to $600 or more is appropriate. Group gifting is also an option, where you can pool resources with other family members to contribute to a larger, more extravagant gift.

If you are a younger family member, such as a niece or nephew, the expectation to spend a large amount is typically lower. You can still participate in gift-giving by offering heartfelt, handmade creations, personalized items, or small monetary tokens.

If you are in the wedding party, $100+ is a good amount

If you're in the wedding party, it's a good idea to spend over $100 on a wedding gift. According to Zola, friends or relatives should spend between $75 and $100, while those in the wedding party should spend $100 or more. The average wedding gift amount spent by guests in 2023 was $150, but this can vary depending on your relationship with the couple, your budget, and the cost of attending the wedding.

If you're in the wedding party, you've likely already spent a significant amount of money on the bachelor or bachelorette party, wedding shower, and other wedding-related expenses. Therefore, it's understandable if you want to give a more sentimental gift rather than an extravagant one. You can always give something on the lower end of the spectrum, taking into account how much you've already contributed to their big day.

When deciding how much to spend on a wedding gift, it's important to consider your budget and what you can comfortably afford. There's no need to break the bank, but if you're close to the couple, you may want to splurge a little more. Additionally, if you're attending with a plus-one, you can give a gift together, which can help cut costs.

Frequently asked questions