Navigating the world of wedding gifts can be tricky. Can you get the newlyweds something that isn't on their gift registry? How much do you give if they've chosen to have a wishing well instead? Do you still need to give a gift if you can't actually attend the wedding? Here are all of the answers to your gift giving questions!
No Invite, No Problem...
So, here's the sitch: One of your friends is getting married and has decided to have a really intimate ceremony with just her and her partner's family. You completely understand why you haven't been invited but you still want to get her a wedding gift and you aren't quite sure what's appropriate. In this scenario, we recommend gifting something small, like a gift card, a recipe book or a candle set, along with a heartfelt card that you've written. This shows that you're happy for her without making it seem like you're disappointed about not being invited to the wedding.
Via Modern Wedding
Off The Menu...
If you've got a wedding coming up, you just might stumble upon the most perfect gift for the happy couple but there's one problem: it's not on the gift registry. So the question is, can you still give it to them? It probably is best to stick to the registry because the couple put time and thought into deciding on a registry that is perfect for them. However, if you do find something that's not on the registry and you think it's absolutely perfect, check the registry to make sure it's something that will match the decor and style of the newlyweds.
Via Standard
It's The Thought That Counts...
An age-old question when it comes to buying wedding gifts is "How much should I spend on the gift?" Our answer is simple: buy within your budget. Keep your relationship with the couple in mind when you're buying your gift and choose a budget that works for you. If you find that you can't afford anything on the gift registry, make something thoughtful like a photo album of your memories with the couple to show them how happy you are to be part of their special day.
Well Of Wishes...
On a similar note, how much does a guest give when the husband-and-wife-to-be decides to have a wishing well instead of a gift registry? This topic is always up for debate and once again, this is completely up to you and is influenced by how close you are with the couple. Generally, it's best to try and cover what the couple would have paid for you to attend the wedding, which can range anywhere from $50 to $150. There really is no set amount to give a couple who are having a wishing well which is why it's best to stick to your own personal budget.
Via Kitty Hawk
No Show...
If you've been invited to a wedding but you can't attend, do you still need to get the couple a wedding gift? The short answer to this burning question is no, you don't technically have to get them a gift if you can't make it to the wedding. However, depending on how well you know the couple, it's a nice gesture to get them a little something to congratulate them on their marriage.
Via Vogue
Keep It Affordable...
The question on every bridesmaid's lips is "Do I need to buy a wedding gift for the couple even though I'm already spending a lot of money on the wedding?" Being part of the bridal party means that there are a lot of wedding costs to consider and it can be easy to get overwhelmed by it all. Our take on this question is that it's always good wedding etiquette to get a gift for the couple, no matter how involved you are with the ceremony. If you're struggling to cover all of the costs associated with being a part of the bridal party, cut down on the cost of a gift and give the couple something more sentimental and affordable.
Via Modern Wedding
Still undecided about whether to have a gift registry or a wishing well? Find out the pros and cons of having a wishing well here.
