What to give for a Wedding? How Much Money? Wedding Gift Ideas
So you’re going to a wedding, but you’re not sure what to give. The best place to start is the obvious, the wedding registry. Often times a notecard will be included in a wedding shower invitation and sometimes even a wedding invitation - however it’s not the norm. If you are unaware of where the bride and groom may be registered, ask the parents if they are currently registered anywhere. If they are, see what’s left on the list that fall into your budget.
But what if the Bride and Groom didn’t register, or are no longer registered - they closed out their registry, what to buy? Often times, the expense of a wedding, combined with the expenses of starting a new life together - a place to live, furniture, kitchenware, etc. - can leave newlyweds in need of some cash. So, why not give the couple the most universal gift that will allow them to buy or pay for what is most needed? Cash is King.
After making the decision that you will give a cash gift to the Bride and Groom, the next question is, “How Much Money Should I Give as a Wedding Gift?”. This is often a tough calculation to make, all dependent upon geographic region, location of wedding venue / cost per person and closeness to the Bride and Groom. It is rude to ask the Bride and Groom the cost per head, so don’t even bother… With time, you’ll get a better feel for wedding expenses, but until you ask around or have your own wedding, you won’t know for sure. So, why not start by asking around, get an idea of what weddings cost per person in your area, let’s just say, $100 per person. If you’re going with a guest and can afford it, give $200 for a casual friend and maybe $300 for a close friend. If weddings cost $300 per person, and you’re going with a guest, most likely you can’t afford to shell out $600 for the night. Having said this, most Bride and Grooms don’t expect this, and if they’re spending that kind of money on a wedding, they can afford it. So don’t try to match numbers, give what you can comfortably give and maybe supplement or replace the gift with something from the heart. If you’re an artist, who won’t love a nice portrait for their new home?
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