How Much to Spend on a Wedding Gift: 7 Factors to Consider

Updated October 28, 2020
Wedding couple opening gifts

It can be tricky to figure out how much to spend on a wedding gift. Using some tips can help you make an appropriate choice when it comes to deciding the wedding gift amount you're comfortable with.

How Much to Spend on Wedding Gift

In general, it's best to begin with $100 and then consider other factors when making your decision.

Considerations Wedding Gift Amount Range
Relationship Acquaintance to close friend range $50-$200
Destination wedding $50-$150
Gift from one person About $100
Gift from multiple people About $150 to $300
Cash Gift About $75-$100 or more
Multiple events $50-$100 per event
Financial situation Will vary based on your circumstances

Type of Relationship

If you are going to a wedding of an acquaintance, you are not expected to spend as much money on their present. In general, the gift amount increases depending on your level of closeness with the individual or couple. For an acquaintance, you may consider purchasing a gift in the $50 to $75 range, while for a very close friend or family member, you can spend between $100 to over $200 if you are comfortable doing so.

Destination Wedding

Destination weddings often cost quite a bit for guests, so it's anticipated that gifts may not be as expensive. If you're able to spend around $100, that's a good general place to begin. If that's a bit too much, you can stick with the $50 to $75 range.

A Gift From One Person

If the gift is solely from you, start off with $100, and factor in your relationship, as well as your comfort level spending that much money. If you are fairly close with the couple, $100 is a perfectly acceptable amount to spend. If that's too much, you can spend between $50 to $75 if that works better for you.

Wedding gift to groom

A Gift From Multiple People

When multiple people split a gift, you can each spend between $50 to $100 each if that range works for you. You can also spend more, or have each person spend what they are comfortable with. Depending on how many people are included, you can get the couple quite an expensive gift without having to spend a lot of money per person.

Cash Gift

An acceptable cash gift amount typically ranges between $75 and $100, but you can also spend more if you are comfortable doing so. If you are unable to spend up to $75, you may consider gifting the couple a smaller gift from their registry instead.

Wooden box for wedding money envelopes on table with colourful flowers

Multiple Events

When purchasing wedding gifts, it's important to consider how many gifts you will be purchasing so you can create an appropriate budget that you are comfortable with. You do not need to purchase an engagement gift, but you can write a congratulations card for the couple. Typically, you will be expected to purchase gifts for the bridal shower or couple's shower (if invited), as well as the wedding. You may also bring a small gift for the bachelor or bachelorette party if you'd like.

Financial Situation

Regardless of what the suggested spending range is, it's up to you to decide what you are comfortable with spending. If you are unable to spend as much as you'd like, that's okay. Giving a gift, regardless of the price, is a thoughtful gesture, and being present at someone's wedding is incredibly meaningful.

Is $25 Enough for a Wedding Gift

$25 is an acceptable amount of money to spend on a wedding gift if that's what you are able to afford. If you do spend $50 or under, it's thoughtful to give a few small gifts off of their registry instead of a check.

Wedding Gift From Bridesmaid

Those in the bridal party are typically expected to spend a bit more due to the nature of their relationship with the bride and/or couple. Bridesmaids, if they are able to, can expect to spend about $100-$200 per gift they give.

Wedding gift

What to Give for a Wedding Gift

The best place to check for wedding gift ideas is to look at the couple's registry. You can also consider giving them a check, looking into unique wedding gifts, or creating something meaningful for them if you're creative.

What Is an Acceptable Amount to Give for a Wedding Gift?

An acceptable amount will vary per person. In general, it's best to start at around $100 and alter the price up or down depending on what you feel comfortable affording, as well as your relationship with the couple.

Wedding Gift Amount

Figuring out how much to spend on a wedding gift may take a bit of time. Don't spend more than you are comfortable with, and use your best judgment when picking out a gift.

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How Much to Spend on a Wedding Gift: 7 Factors to Consider