Wedding Gifts: Jewish Tradition Explained

In Jewish circles, it is customary to give monetary wedding gifts in multiples of $18, which corresponds to the numerical value of the Hebrew word for life or chai. This tradition is often reflected in the wording of Jewish wedding invitations, which may include details of the couple's wedding gift list or a request for money as a gift. While there is no obligation to give money, it is quite common at Jewish weddings, even when there is a gift list.

Money gifts are customary in Jewish circles, with amounts being multiples of $18

Money gifts are a customary option for Jewish weddings, even when the couple has a gift registry. It is common to give amounts in multiples of $18, which corresponds to the numerical value of the Hebrew word for "life", "chai". This custom is also practical, as it is easier for the couple to use and appreciate cash gifts for years to come.

If the couple is already well-established, an alternative is to make a charitable donation in their honour. It is a good idea to check with the newlyweds about their charity preferences, as a donation to a charity they have a personal connection to can be a meaningful gift.

In some countries, like Israel, it is expected that guests give money equal to the amount of food they consumed at the wedding. In the US, where weddings tend to be more expensive, the amount could be upwards of $1200 per guest.

While money gifts are common, there is no obligation to give money, and guests are free to choose a gift from the registry or give another type of gift if they prefer.

Money gifts are customary to cover the cost of the event

In some cultures, it is customary to give money as a wedding gift to cover the cost of the event. This is also true for Jewish weddings. While it is not mandatory, many Jewish couples will receive gifts of money from their guests, especially if they do not have a gift registry.

In some countries, the amount of money given is based on the cost of the event per guest. In Israel, for example, it is customary to give money based on the amount of food consumed. In other countries, guests may be expected to contribute to the cost of the venue, band, and even the couple's vacations for the following year.

When giving money as a gift at a Jewish wedding, it is customary to write cheques in multiples of $18. This is because $18 is the numerical value of the Hebrew word for "life", "chai". If the couple already has a well-established home, an alternative is to make a charitable donation in their honour. It is a good idea to check with the couple about their preferred charity, as a personal connection to the cause can make the gift more meaningful.

If you are invited to a Jewish wedding and are unsure about the gift-giving customs, it is always a good idea to ask the couple or a close member of their family.

It is common to receive a bill with the wedding invitation

In Jewish culture, it is customary for wedding guests to give money as a gift. This is because, in Jewish circles, it is customary to give money in multiples of $18, which corresponds to the numerical value of the Hebrew word for "life" or "chai." If the couple is already well-established, an alternative is to make a charitable donation in their honour. It is considered good form to check with the couple about their charity preferences.

In some cultures, it is common for the cost of the wedding to be factored into the gift amount. In Israel, for example, it is expected that guests will give money equal to the amount they ate and drank at the wedding.

While it is not common for Jewish couples to send a bill with their wedding invitation, it is common for the invitation to include details of the couple's wedding gift list or gift preferences. For example, one source mentions a wedding invitation that included a note reading: "Only gifts of a hundred and twenty dollars or more. We have enough challah covers. We would love for you to come to our wedding. Buy us an oven."

Gifts of appliances are also expected

In Jewish weddings, gifts of appliances are expected, and they are often included in the wedding invitation. This is because Jewish weddings emphasize the importance of family unity and sharing joy with loved ones. Here are some examples of appliance gifts that would be considered appropriate and thoughtful:

• A stand mixer, such as the KitchenAid Stand Mixer with Premium Accessories, is perfect for new couples or aspiring bakers. It comes with multiple attachments, bowl sizes, and paddles, allowing the recipient to explore their culinary interests.
• For pasta enthusiasts, the Atlas Steel Pasta Maker is a wonderful choice. It comes with various attachments and removable parts for easy cleaning. It's an excellent way to spend time with family and friends, creating delicious homemade pasta.
• The Lomi Countertop Composter is an innovative gift for environmentally conscious couples. It reduces waste and fights climate change by turning food waste into nutrient-rich dirt for plants.
• For couples who enjoy entertaining, a nugget ice maker like the GE Nugget Ice Maker is a fun addition to their home bar. It produces over 24 pounds of ice per day and has built-in Wi-Fi and voice control.
• An air fryer, such as the Cosori Deluxe Air Fryer, is a modern appliance that every couple needs. With its sleek design and smart functions, it allows for remote control and monitoring, making it convenient for busy couples who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• A food processor, like the Cuisinart 14.5-Cup Food Processor, is a versatile gift. It can be used for various tasks such as making nut butter, grinding meat, creating doughs, and more, simplifying meal preparation for the newlyweds.
• An immersion blender, such as the All-Clad Cordless Rechargeable Immersion Blender, is a compact and powerful tool for any cook. With five speeds and a slow-start function, it can blend even the densest ingredients with ease.
• The Always Pan by Our Place is a sleek and non-toxic ceramic cookware piece that replaces eight common items in the kitchen. It is a thoughtful gift for couples who want to streamline their cooking experience and reduce clutter in their kitchen.
• A cast-iron Dutch oven, like the STAUB Cast Iron 5 Qt. Dutch Oven, is a long-lasting gift. With its enameled material and gorgeous color options, it becomes a cherished item in the kitchen, perfect for cooking cozy family meals.

Gifts of Judaica are customary

A seder plate is a great gift idea, as it is used once a year during Passover seders. A seder is a ceremonial meal where the Passover story is retold. Similarly, a menorah can be used during Hanukkah, which falls in the Hebrew month of Kislev, usually in December. A Rosh Hashanah honey dish can double up as a sugar bowl for the rest of the year.

A mezuzah is another gift idea. This is a small box placed on the right doorpost of Jewish homes, containing a parchment scroll with verses from the Torah. A Havdalah set is also a thoughtful gift, used to say goodbye to Shabbat each week.

If you're looking for a gift that will be used more regularly, a three-piece cutting board set for preparing meat, dairy, and pareve foods is a good option. A Dutch oven or a crockpot is perfect for cooking traditional Jewish dishes like cholent or brisket.

When it comes to wedding gifts, Jews also appreciate receiving money. It is customary to give money in multiples of $18, which corresponds to the numerical value of the Hebrew word for "life" or "chai." If the couple already has what they need, a charitable donation in their honour is another meaningful option.

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