Gifting Etiquette: Showers And Weddings

If you've been invited to a bridal shower and a wedding, it is considered good etiquette to bring a gift to both. However, this doesn't mean that the two gifts have to be equal in value. Bridal shower gifts are typically smaller and more modest than wedding gifts, and it is recommended to spend less on a shower gift than a wedding present. If you are planning to give one big-ticket gift for both occasions, it is advisable to let the couple know in advance.

It is customary to give gifts for both the shower and the wedding

The simplest way to approach gift-giving for the shower and wedding is to think of them as two separate events, each requiring a gift. However, it is important to note that these gifts do not have to be equal in value. In fact, it is customary for the wedding gift to be larger and more expensive than the shower gift. The reasoning behind this is that the wedding is the main event, while the shower is just a precursor.

When it comes to budgeting for gifts, a good rule of thumb is the 20-20-60 rule. This means that 60% of your total budget should be allocated for the wedding gift, while the remaining 40% is divided equally between the shower gift and another pre-wedding event, such as an engagement party. For example, if your total budget is $200, you would spend $120 on the wedding gift, and $40 each on the shower gift and the other event. If you are only invited to one pre-wedding event, a simplified 30-70 rule can be followed, with 30% of your budget going to the shower gift and 70% to the wedding gift.

It is also worth noting that your presence at these events is more important than the gifts themselves. If you are unable to afford gifts for both occasions, a smaller, more sentimental gift will surely be appreciated. Alternatively, you can give one big-ticket gift for both occasions, but it is important to let the couple know in advance. At a minimum, bring a card to the shower, explaining that a gift is on the way.

The shower gift should be smaller and less expensive than the wedding gift

It is customary to give gifts at both the bridal shower and the wedding. However, the bridal shower gift should be smaller and less expensive than the wedding gift. This is because the bridal shower is just a precursor to the larger, more formal celebration of the wedding. The bridal shower gift is typically one-third the price of the wedding gift. For example, if you plan on spending $200 in total on gifts, you might allocate $40 for the shower gift and $160 for the wedding gift.

If you are unable to afford two gifts, it is perfectly acceptable to give one larger gift at either event. However, it is important to communicate this to the couple in advance and bring a card to the event where you do not give a gift.

Bridal shower gifts are typically chosen from the couple's registry and are often smaller items such as kitchen appliances, utensils, towels, or dishes. Wedding gifts, on the other hand, tend to be larger items such as homeware or appliances and are usually also chosen from the couple's registry.

The most important thing to remember is that your presence at these events is a gift in itself, and the couple will understand if financial constraints make it difficult to purchase multiple gifts.

Shower gifts typically cost between $25 and $75

Bridal shower gifts typically cost between $25 and $75. This is because bridal shower gifts are usually less expensive than wedding gifts. The 20-20-60 rule suggests that 60% of your gift budget should be allocated to a wedding present, with the remaining 40% split evenly between pre-wedding events. If you are only invited to the shower and wedding, it is suggested to divide your budget by 30-70.

The amount you spend on a bridal shower gift depends on your budget, your relationship with the couple, and the couple's preferences. If you are close to the couple, you may want to spend more. However, it is important to remember that the amount spent on a gift does not reflect the strength of your relationship with the couple. Simply give what you can comfortably afford, as it is the thought that counts.

If you are unable to attend the bridal shower, you are not required to send a gift. However, if you are close to the couple, you may want to consider sending a gift or flowers to arrive on the day of the shower.

Bridal shower gifts are typically smaller and more modest than wedding gifts. Common bridal shower gifts include kitchenware, such as small appliances, utensils, towels, or dishes. If the couple has a registry, it is helpful to choose a gift from there. This ensures that you are giving the couple something they need and want. If there is no registry, you can choose a gift that is creative, meaningful, or useful to the couple.

Overall, the most important thing is to find a present that is meaningful or useful to the couple to celebrate their upcoming wedding.

Wedding gifts should cover the cost of your meal and drinks at the wedding, between $50 and $200

Wedding gifts are a tricky business. While it's considered proper etiquette to bring a gift to both the shower and the wedding, it's not always necessary. If you're working with a tight budget, your presence and warm wishes will mean a lot to the couple.

Now, if you are in a position to give a gift, how much should you spend? There are a few different approaches to this. One is to follow the 20-20-60 rule, which suggests that 60% of your budget should be used for the wedding gift, while 20% each should be dedicated to a wedding shower gift and another pre-wedding event gift. For example, if your total budget is $200, you would spend $120 on the wedding present, $40 on the wedding shower, and $40 on another pre-wedding event gift. If you're only invited to one pre-wedding event, you can divide that extra 20% between the shower and the wedding.

Another approach is to aim to cover the cost of your meal and drinks at the wedding, which is typically around $50 to $100 per person. This is based on the idea that your gift should be at least enough to cover the cost of your attendance at the wedding. However, it's important to note that this is not a hard-and-fast rule, and you should give what you can comfortably afford.

If you're attending with a plus-one, you might consider spending anywhere from $100 to over $200 on a wedding gift. This can be structured in any way you choose—one person can give the gift while the other signs the card, or you can chip in together.

Ultimately, the amount you spend on a wedding gift depends on your relationship with the couple and your budget. If you're close to the couple, you might consider spending more. But if your budget is tight, don't feel pressured to spend outside your means. A thoughtful, sentimental gift can be just as meaningful as an expensive one.

Gifts for both occasions should be chosen from the couple's registry

If you're wondering whether to give one gift for both the shower and the wedding, the answer is yes, but with some stipulations. Firstly, it is customary to bring a gift to both the shower and the wedding. However, the two gifts do not have to be equal in value. The wedding gift should be larger, as it should cover the cost of your meal and drinks at the wedding. The bridal shower gift, on the other hand, can be smaller and more modest.

Now, if you prefer to give one big-ticket gift for both occasions, that is also acceptable. However, it is important to let the couple know your plan. You can bring a card to the bridal shower, mentioning that a gift is on the way, or you can ship the gift ahead of time and include a note that references both events.

Regardless of whether you give one gift or two, it is generally recommended that you choose items from the couple's registry. This wish list is curated by the couple to include items they want and need across a range of prices. By selecting gifts from the registry, you can be confident that the couple will love and use your present. It also helps to avoid the risk of duplicate gifts or items that the couple may not have space for.

If the couple does not have a registry, you can check with their family or wedding party members to get an idea of what they may need as they start their married life together. You can also refer to roundups of bridal shower and wedding gift ideas to find presents that will wow the couple.

So, if you're looking for gifts for both occasions, the couple's registry is a great place to start. Choose items that fit within your budget and reflect the relationship you have with the couple. And remember, while gifts are a wonderful part of the celebration, the most meaningful gesture is your presence and warm wishes for the happy couple.

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