Wedding Gift Etiquette: Sending Double Gifts To Newlyweds

Wedding gift-giving can be a tricky business, and it's often hard to know what the right thing to do is. While it's considered good etiquette to send a gift, it's not mandatory. If you do decide to send one, it's best to do so before the wedding, but it's acceptable to send a gift up to a year after the wedding. If you're sending a gift from the couple's registry, it's recommended to do so about four to six weeks before the wedding. That way, you can get a few wedding-related tasks out of the way, and the couple will likely be able to write you a thank-you note before the big day. If you're giving cash, you can bring an envelope to the wedding, but there's a slight risk it could get lost or stolen. It's generally considered best to send cash or a cheque a few weeks to a month before the wedding.

It is best to send gifts before the wedding

If you are buying a gift from the couple's wedding registry, it is recommended to purchase it immediately after receiving the invitation, about four to six weeks before the wedding date. That way, you can get a few wedding-related tasks out of the way at once, such as sending back the RSVP card and browsing for potential outfits. According to a WeddingWire study, 31% of wedding guests purchased their gift a month or more before the wedding, and 37% sent a gift the week before the event. While it is considered fine from an etiquette perspective to buy a gift this close to the wedding, the couple may not receive it until after the wedding, and you will have fewer gift options from the registry to choose from.

If you are giving cash, it is safe to send it a few weeks to a month before the wedding. Sending it via payment apps, or contributing to the couple's honeymoon fund or cash registry, are also good options.

It is considered best etiquette to mail the wedding gift to the couple's home, as most modern weddings do not include a gift table. Bringing a gift that isn't cash or a cheque to the wedding is not recommended, especially if it's a destination wedding, as it will be stressful for the couple to coordinate gift transportation.

Gifts can be sent up to a year after the wedding

Wedding gifts are not mandatory, but they are still appreciated and expected, especially if you're close to the couple. While it is considered best etiquette to mail the wedding gift to the couple's home, there are regional exceptions. For example, on the East Coast, it's common for guests to bring a card with a gift of cash or a cheque to the wedding.

If you're wondering how long you have to give a wedding gift, traditionally, guests have up to a year after the big day to send a gift. However, many experts recommend getting presents to the couple within three months of the wedding. While this is not mandatory, it is a nice gesture, and sending your gift promptly will make it that much sweeter.

If you're giving cash, it's best to send it a few weeks to a month before the wedding. This can be done by sending a gift card to one of the retailers from the couple's registry, contributing to a honeymoon fund or cash registry, or using a payment app. If you're bringing a gift to the wedding, it's best to avoid physical gifts, especially if it's a destination wedding.

Gifts should be mailed to the couple's home

Mailing wedding gifts to the couple's home is the preferred option, according to modern wedding etiquette. This is because most weddings no longer include a gift table, and transporting gifts can be stressful and inconvenient for the couple. By mailing your gift, you can avoid causing any unnecessary hassle for the newlyweds on their big day.

If you purchase a gift from the couple's wedding registry, it can be sent directly to their address, saving you the trouble of shipping it yourself. This option is also convenient because you know the gift will be something the couple wants and appreciates. It's recommended to buy a gift from the registry as soon as you receive the invitation, which is usually about four to six weeks before the wedding. This way, you can take care of multiple tasks at once, such as sending your RSVP and browsing for an outfit.

However, if you're giving cash or a cheque as a gift, it's best to send it a few weeks to a month before the wedding. While you can bring cash or a cheque to the wedding, there is a slight risk of it getting lost or stolen during the event. Alternatively, you can use a payment app or contribute to the couple's honeymoon fund or cash registry if they have one.

It's important to note that you don't want to wait too long to send your gift. While traditional etiquette suggests that you have up to a year to send a wedding gift, it's more considerate to send it promptly, preferably within three months of the wedding. Sending your gift early ensures that the couple receives it before their wedding day, and they may even be able to write you a thank-you note before the chaos of the big day.

Cash gifts are acceptable

Cash gifts are perfectly acceptable to give to a newlywed couple. In fact, 29% of guests in a WeddingWire study gave cash or cheque gifts. This is a convenient option for the couple, who may already have everything they need for their home, and can instead put the money towards their savings, honeymoon, or new experiences.

If you are giving cash, it is best to do so before the wedding. You can send a gift card to one of the retailers from the couple's registry, contribute to their honeymoon fund, or use a payment app. If you are giving cash or a cheque, it is best to do so a few weeks to a month before the wedding. This is because there is a slight risk that your gift could get lost or stolen during the wedding, and it will be one less thing for the couple to keep track of on the day.

If you are giving cash or a cheque at the wedding, place it in an envelope and put it in a card box, if the couple has one. Make sure you sign the cheque, and include a card with your name so the couple knows who the gift is from.

The amount you give depends on your relationship with the couple and your budget. Generally, the closer you are to the couple, the more you are expected to give. A distant relative, colleague, or non-close friend should give $50 to $100, while a family member or friend should give $100 to $150. A close relative or best friend should give $150 or more. If you are bringing a date to the wedding, $150 is a good amount to give.

Gifts should reflect your relationship with the couple

Wedding gifts are a great way to celebrate the union of two people and show your love and support. When choosing a gift, it's essential to consider your relationship with the couple and select something that reflects your unique bond. Here are some ideas to help you choose a gift that is both meaningful and thoughtful:

Personalised Gifts

Add a personal touch with customised presents such as a guest book, photo frame, cheese board, date night cards, mugs, doormat, kitchen aprons, candle, throw and cushion covers, or even a cast-iron casserole dish with their initials or wedding date engraved on it. These gifts are a beautiful way to commemorate their special day and will be cherished for years to come.

Luxury Gifts

If you're willing to splurge, consider luxurious options like elegant pink champagne flutes, tealight holders, plush throw and cushion covers, or a stylish pink glass desk lamp. These gifts add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the couple's new life together.

Home Gifts

For couples setting up their first home together, practical and innovative gifts are ideal. Opt for a KitchenAid mixer, a smarter coffee machine, a bread maker, or a flower subscription to brighten up their space. You can also gift them a unique experience, such as a romantic picnic hamper or a cooking class, to create lasting memories.

Experience-Based Gifts

Gifts that offer memorable experiences are a wonderful way to celebrate a couple's new journey. Consider hot air balloon rides, wine-tasting tours, dining at a gourmet restaurant, or a class at a cookery school. These experiences provide opportunities for the couple to create lasting memories and strengthen their bond.

Useful Gifts

Sometimes, the most appreciated gifts are those that are practical and useful. Think about the couple's daily lives and choose items that will make their routines easier and more enjoyable, such as a Panasonic bread maker, an adventure challenge book, a couples' yoga mat set, or a smart fitness tracker.

DIY Gifts

If you're crafty, consider creating a handmade gift. Compile a photo album of their favourite memories, create a DIY recipe book, paint a portrait of the couple, or make candles or bath bombs together. These gifts are sure to impress and will be cherished for their thoughtfulness and personal touch.

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