Finding that perfect gift for the newlyweds doesn’t have to be as stressful as you think it is! Remember, you were invited to the wedding to share in the couple’s celebration of starting their new life together, not to break the bank with the gift to end all gifts. While it’s understandable that you want your wedding gifts to convey the “right” message, don’t stress yourself out or leave yourself short trying to impress.
What to Spend
When it comes to finding the perfect gift, how much to spend can be a recurring issue. Even if the couple has a wedding registry to help point you in the right direction, the range of suggestions can be far and wide. There are a few things to take into consideration.
Don’t spend more than you can afford. Think about your current financial situation and your budgeting restraints. Whereas it’s understandable that you want your gift to be memorable and to stand out, the bride and groom wouldn’t want to cause you financial strain.
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If you’re either on a strict budget or have numerous weddings to attend, overspending isn’t an option without causing yourself budgetary harm. That doesn’t mean your gift has to be any less well-received. Alternatively, you can contribute to a group gift where you pool your money with others and purchase a larger gift as a group.
If you either aren’t comfortable with a group gift, or you have no one to pool your money with, a card is always an acceptable gift. If you don’t feel that a card is sufficient, a sentimental gift is always well-received. You can do anything from framing a memorable photo and gifting that to creating a photo book. There are countless resources online that can help you make a photo album that will be cherished for years to come.
Other Considerations
If your budget isn’t your main concern, there are things you should take into account when deciding how much to spend. For example, is the wedding local or do you have to do a decent amount of traveling to attend? The amount you have to spend on getting to the venue should be taken into consideration and lower the amount you feel like you have to spend on a present.
Travel needs aside, how many guests are you bringing with you? If the invitation is unclear, be sure to check with the bride to see if your child/children are welcome to attend before bringing them along. The number of people you are bringing with you should increase the amount you are prepared to spend.
Wedding Gift Etiquette
While you are not required to give a wedding gift, it is socially frowned upon to go to a wedding empty-handed. The beauty of registering for gifts is to take the guesswork out of what the new couple may need. If they decide against a gift registry, you can ask close family and friends of the couple which items would be helpful.
On occasion, couples may clearly state that they do not wish to receive any gifts. If that should happen, that doesn’t mean you can’t still get a gift if you feel strongly about it. In lieu of getting a gift, though, you could also donate money to the couple’s favorite charity.
If you decide to buy a gift, you should send it to the bride’s home days before the wedding. It saves the hassle of them having to transport the gift and reduces the likelihood of it being damaged.
The most important thing to remember when attending a wedding is that it’s your company the couple wants to share with you on their special day, not the gift you give them.
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