If the biggest question on your mind this wedding season is “how much do I need to shell out for a gift?” — take a deep breath, unclench your credit card and listen up.
The average wedding gift in America runs about $100, according to Jennifer Spector, Director of Brand at wedding company Zola.
But before you throw a crisp Benjamin in a card and head for the open bar, Spector has a few more pointers for guests looking to nail the perfect present — without blowing their budget or their dignity.
First, forget the age-old etiquette “rule” that your gift should match the cost of your dinner plate.
According to the Emily Post Institute, that little nugget of social pressure is nothing more than a “modern myth.”
So no, you don’t owe the couple a $275 stand mixer just because they’re serving filet mignon.
That said, relationship status does matter — no, not your relationship status, theirs with you.
Your gift should match your relationship: ride-or-dies go big, office acquaintances go budget, Spector noted when sitting down with Parade for a recent interview.
And if you’re already forking over big bucks for flights, a hotel, and three rounds of matching bachelorette T-shirts? Cut yourself some slack.
“If you’re traveling to the wedding or spending a lot on pre-wedding events, it’s okay to spend a little less, but I always recommend giving a gift,” Spector told the outlet.
“It’s more about the meaning behind what you give than how much you spend.”
Translation: Thought counts, but not zero dollars’ worth.
Timing also matters. Don’t be that guest dragging a wrapped blender into the reception — unless your goal is to become a dance floor hazard.
“Unless you’re giving a check, I encourage not bringing gifts to the wedding,” she said, adding that gifts should land before the big day or no later than three months after (so the newlyweds can actually use the stuff in their real, married life).
And when in doubt? Shop the registry. It exists for a reason.
“If they love to host dinner parties, a cheese board or decanter makes a great gift,” Spector continued.
“Gift cards, like tickets to a show or to the store they are registered at, are another great option. Keep in mind couples will likely be receiving a lot of gifts, so don’t choose anything too bulky or difficult to exchange.”
Increasingly, couples aren’t just eyeing toasters and towels — they’re gunning for a home, as The Post previously reported.
Nearly 87% of couples now add a cash fund to their registry, with over a third putting it toward a future down payment, according to Zola. And with sky-high housing costs, it’s a wedding gift that actually pays off.
According to a LendingTree survey, nearly half of recent couples asked for help with a down payment instead of traditional gifts, and 26% said it helped them put more money down on a home. In this economy, cash is the new china.
At the end of the day, don’t let gift-giving drama overshadow the I do’s.
“There really aren’t any hard and fast rules on how much and what you’re expected to give,” Spector told the publication.
“As long as you give a gift that feels personal and is within your budget, you’re on the right track!”
