With wedding season in full swing, it can be difficult knowing what to give to the couple and what the appropriate wedding gift etiquette is. Here are 6 tips for how to choose the ideal wedding gift.
Wedding Gift Etiquette
If you’re keen to give a wedding gift that the bride and groom will appreciate for years to come, read on.
How can I make a registry wedding gift more personal?
Make the message on the accompanying card as personal as possible. Include a romantic quotation or a reference to the item and how the couple can use it together. For example, “we hope that these champagne flutes will toast to many happy moments spent together”.
If you know the future bride well, and she’s looking for tips on how to set up her gift registry, then she might find this article helpful. You could also add a personal touch by giving them a photo frame, including a photo of the couple with your gift.
Do I have to choose from the wedding registry?
If you’re not keen on choosing from the wedding registry, we suggest having a look at it anyway to get an idea of their personal taste. Ask their family or close friends for pointers, to ensure that you choose thoughtful wedding gifts that both of the couple like.
The new trend for asking for cash instead of presents makes some guests feel awkward, so don’t feel like you have to go along with it. Instead, consider giving them a personalized item like a needlepoint embroidery of their wedding invitation or a personalized Jeroboam of champagne, and pairing it with a small item from the gift registry, such as napkin rings.
How much should I spend on the ideal wedding gift?
The old guideline used to be that you should at least cover the approximate cost of the bridal dinner but these days things are more flexible and it’s a matter of personal taste and budget. It also depends on how close you are to the couple.
How can I contribute to a more expensive gift on the list?
Consider clubbing together with other friends or family to contribute to luxury wedding gifts such as a tableware set. Alternatively, you can just buy part of the item such as cups and saucers rather than the whole set.
What if the couple have requested no gifts?
They might appreciate a charity donation on their behalf or you offering your time to help them prepare the wedding. An alternative would be an album filled with photos and mementos of the wedding, or arrange a picnic for them and drink to their good health!
When should I send the gift?
It’s usual to give the gift beforehand or on the day. If you’re bringing your gift to the ceremony, do check whether there will be a secure place to leave it. We’ve heard of occasions where cash donations were stolen! If sending the gift after the wedding, try to do so immediately afterwards.
Of course, the most important thing is the wedding itself. We hope that you’ve found these tips on wedding gift etiquette and how to choose an appropriate wedding gift helpful.
You might also enjoy:
- Etiquette Rules for the Modern Gent
- What is a Destination Wedding?
- Best Places to Propose in London
- Wedding Registry Checklist
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Great post. The couple of weddings we’ve been to recently, the couples have asked for monetary donations to their honeymoons. xx
I had one of those recently too – thanks for stopping by, Michelle
Mr S and I have the Vera Wang glasses in the first picture, we often use them to toast special occasions 🙂
Gorgeous, aren’t they! Here’s to lots of future special occasions
Ooh great tips especially now it’s wedding season! I’m nearly always stuck for ideas!
I’m very pleased that you found it useful, Becky – have a great day!
Are they not big drinkers then? I’d go round and offer to drink it with them ;-). Very interesting about hong bao
Wedding Ideal Gift ? A Serious Choice…
It’s a tough but fun choice!
Vera Wang is my go-to brand for weddings! The range is exquisite!!!
All of the wedding gifts are one-of-a-kind and creative. It was fantastic. Thank you for providing this information.