Being invited to a wedding is an exciting time between seeing the happy couple get married, imbibing in delicious cuisine and beverages, and all the glitz and glam. But one thing that’s on all of our minds, guests and wedding party alike, is wedding gift etiquette. Does the couple need to give gifts to their wedding party? How much do you need to spend on a gift as a guest? We answer all of your questions and more below.
Should you stick to the registry?
Registering for gifts is arguably one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding. Couples can choose the exact dinnerware, décor, or luggage that they actually want. This is why you should always stick to the registry if possible! There’s no need to go searching online for the best wedding gifts when the couple has already done all of the legwork for you. If you are close to the couple and want to give them something off-the-registry, just be sure to check their registry first. When in doubt, many couples are opting to accept cash for their honeymoon or new-home fund versus a physical gift!
How much should a guest spend on a gift?
There is an old wedding gift etiquette rule that says to spend as much money on the gift as what it costs the couple to host you for the wedding, but today that can be a wide range as people opt for budget-friendly micro-weddings along with lavish large-scale soirees. There isn’t one particular number to use and, on average, guests spend about $100-$150 per gift. This can also vary based on how close you are to the couple. Is it your childhood best friend? Consider splurging on an amazing luggage set. A second cousin twice removed? Maybe just stick to a less-expensive item on their registry.
You should also consider what you are spending to attend this wedding i.e. flight, accommodations, attire, etc. If you are already investing $1000+, you can opt for a smaller gift to give the couple. Or, consider your presence the present especially if you are attending a destination wedding.
One suggestion we love is to go in on a group gift for one of the couple’s big-ticket items. Get a few friends together and each pitch in some so you can gift them something meaningful without going over your personal budget. Just ensure that it is known that the present is from several of you and list out everyone’s name on the card.
Does the wedding party give gifts?
It is so exciting to be asked to be a member of the wedding party! Along with the honor of standing by the happy couple on their wedding day also come expenses like attire, hair, makeup, accessories, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and more. Wedding gift etiquette does say you should still give a gift not only to celebrate but also as a thank you for having you be part of their day.
When do I need to send gifts by?
In the digital age, it is becoming more and more common for guests to not bring physical gifts or even cards to the wedding reception. Companies like Amazon, Target, Wayfair, and others allow you to send your gift straight to the couple’s home. Can it get any more convenient? With that said, you may let a couple of weeks slide after the wedding but don’t let more than two months go by without sending a gift. Punctuality is important and the gift should be sent in a timely manner.
What should I get for my future spouse?
In the midst of wedding planning, it’s easy to get lost in all of the chaos and sometimes you can forget what the day is really all about — spending your life with your best friend. Exchanging gifts with your soon-to-be spouse for your wedding is a sweet way to show how much you appreciate them and are looking forward to a lifetime of adventures. Some of our favorite options include custom cufflinks, a gorgeous pair of earrings, or a velvet ring box.
What should I gift my wedding party?
Those in your wedding party are some of the most important people in your life, so you want to show your gratitude for everything they’ve done for you. For bridesmaids, gifting a silk robe is a great option for something they can wear while getting ready on your wedding day and long after. Plus it makes for great photo ops! Happily Chic Designs makes adorable robes that come in a range of colors and can be personalized with names. Custom tumblers and champagne flutes are always a great go-to as well and will make for the perfect accessory for your bridal shower, bachelorette, and getting-ready pictures.
Happily Chic Designs
You could also give your bridesmaids coordinating jewelry to wear on your day. These necklaces are from local jeweler Larissa Loden and come in a variety of trendy colors using high-quality materials. A set of simple earrings is another great gift and these raindrop options from Fair Anita are adorable and made with glimmering rose quartz.
For groomsmen, a monogram whiskey glass is a classy and modern gift they will love. If the groom is a baseball fan, these engraved mugs made from baseball bats are unique and useful.
Happily Chic Designs 
Vick Photography
And you can’t forget the littles! Happily Chic Designs has portable sippy cups that can be made with the flower girl’s or ring bearer’s names on them.
Gifts for Parents and In-Laws
Your parents have been there with you throughout all the stages of planning and have likely contributed emotionally and financially to your day. They are an integral part of your lives and you want to show them your appreciation. Consider paying for your dad’s suit or purchasing massages for the moms the day prior to the wedding. You can also get your mom and mother-in-law in on the getting ready festivities by getting them matching robes and champagne flutes as well.
Happily Chic Designs
