Wedding Gifts
What is considered appropriate, and what is rude? The following guide will describe all the rules of etiquette surrounding practical wedding gifts, so read on!
Technically, guests do not need to bring a wedding gift to the wedding, as it is not mentioned on the invitation (in fact, it’s considered rude to specify anything about gifts on the invitation). Nevertheless, etiquette demands that you send a gift to the couple if you’re invited, regardless of whether or not you’re accepting the invitation. It is best to send your gift to the couple ahead of time before the wedding, as all the gifts given at the wedding must be moved afterwards to the couples’ home, which can be inconvenient. (especially if you have a large gift). Even if you have a smaller gift, mail it to the couple beforehand, because small presents may become lost, or be stolen, during the wedding.
What should you get the couple? Most couples have a gift registry (but you’ll have to ask their friends and relatives if you do not know the web address, as it is considered rude to put the address of the gift registry on the invitation) and they are generally guaranteed to like any item you pick from the registry. However, you may also give cash (many couples even prefer cash, but do not put “cash gifts preferred” on their invitations because it is rude), but if you do, write a check-do not just pack cash into an envelope to give them. Some couples set up a honeymoon or new home fund instead of a gift registry, so it is possible to contribute to those funds, as well. Check with the couple’s family and close friends to see what they may have set up. Also, while there is no rule on exactly how much you should spend on the gift, consider a minimum of $50 for the present unless you are unable to afford it. In general, the price of the gift should correspond to the style of the reception (lavish or humble).
If the couple asks you not to give a gift on the invitation, then the couple doesn’t want to force you to buy a gift. However, you should still buy one anyway, because a heartfelt, thoughtful gift is always welcomed. If the couple is very wealthy and doesn’t need gifts, then donate some money to a charity for them. It’s always polite to give at least something, whether the couple asks for it or not.
Give money, give furniture, donate to the honeymoon and house funds, or buy a gift from their registry-if you have no idea what to get, these few practical wedding gift ideas should help you out a bit. However, by no means are you restricted to this list; if you have an idea for a gift but it’s not in the registry, then good for you! By all means, buy it!
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