Wedding Present: How much should I spend?

By Adelaide Kwaning

Has this ever happened to you—you’re invited to a wedding by an old friend. And by old I mean you haven’t seen or spoken to her for about three years. But some how you managed to make it on the guest list. You’re flattered that she’s remembered you after all these years but now you have the nightmare of all wedding guest nightmares “what to buy and how much should you spend?”

The first thing is to consider the following factors

• The length of time you’ve known the bride
• Your age in relation to theirs
• Your financial status in relation to theirs
• Your general social circle (and expectation, to some extent)
• Your general gift-giving practices.

Once you’ve determined the above you can start to narrow down a number of options for gifts. But how much should you spend? This is the question that most gift givers want answered.

Well, while giving an actual numerical indicator of what is acceptable to spend on a wedding present is difficult, at the average middle income wedding, the wedding present for a person with whom the giver has a limited relationship ranges between about 25-65 dollars.

Most couples these days are registered with a store that provides wedding presents. This makes it easier for gift givers because they are provided with a list of items the bride and groom want, and often, the price of each item.

But what if they haven’t registered with a location?

Here are some gift ideas for someone who you have limited relations with.

• 1. Money: It is always a nice wedding present. Give money along with a note suggesting what they might use it for.
• 2. Travelers checks: The same as above attach a note with it.
• 3. Donate money in the bride and groom's name: if you know of a cause that is important to the bride and/or groom donate an amount to a charity.
• 4. Picture frame: Give the bride and groom something to keep some of their memories in.
• 5. Candles: Help the couple set the mood by giving them a candle set.

Here's your opportunity to help those shopping for a wedding present by telling them what NOT to buy. Share your stories about the worst wedding present you ever received.