Wedding Gift Etiquette?

Wedding gift etiquette can be a source of stress and anxiety, and there are many (often conflicting) places that you can look to for advice. Before overwhelming yourself with too much research, here are a few basic rules to stick to:

1. Check your invitation! If the couple requests your company, but asks that you do not bring gifts, don't bring a gift. Requests for contributions to a charity or a honeymoon fund are also becoming more common, and the amount that you give should be tailored to your individual relationship to the couple. Several sources advise contributing between 75 to 100 dollars on a money gift—and don't forget a personalized card.


2. Wedding registries are extremely useful, and also very popular. Usually the invitation will include a list of stores or a link to an online registry. If you're ordering online, include a note if you can so you can send your personal good wishes to the couple.


3. Don't be afraid to get personal—if you're close to the couple. If this is the wedding of your best friend for many years, or your sibling, parent, or other close relative, don't be afraid to think outside of the box and get them something that may be more meaningful to them than an item off their registry.

Each wedding is personal and individual, just like the two people getting married. If you are concerned about the appropriateness of your gift, ask the happy couple themselves or a friend or family member close to the pair.