Not sure how much to give? Get a personalised amount suggestion based on your relationship, region, and the occasion.
💡 How to use these ideas: These are inspiration starting points, not shopping links. Always search online, visit local shops, browse vintage markets and second-hand platforms (Vinted, eBay, Facebook Marketplace) for the best deals and unique finds. A well-chosen pre-loved gift is often more special than a generic new one.
💒 Your Situation
Your relation to the couple
❤️ Close Family
🤝 Close Friend
👪 Relative
💼 Colleague
👋 Acquaintance
Region
🇺🇸 United States
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇪🇺 Europe
🌍 Other
Are you attending?
✅ Yes, attending
❌ Not attending
These are suggested ranges based on common etiquette. The right amount always depends on your personal financial situation and your closeness to the couple. A heartfelt card matters more than any number.
Figuring out how much to spend on a wedding gift is one of the most common etiquette dilemmas in adult life. Spend too little and you worry about appearing cheap. Spend too much and you strain your own finances. The calculator below takes the guesswork out of the equation by suggesting a range based on your relationship to the couple, the formality of the wedding, and regional norms.
Wedding gift etiquette varies significantly between cultures, regions, and family expectations. This tool synthesises current survey data and etiquette guidelines to give you a realistic range, not a single number. You always have the final say on what feels comfortable for your budget and relationship.
When to Use the Wedding Gift Calculator
Use this calculator as soon as you receive a wedding invitation. Knowing your budget early helps you shop thoughtfully instead of scrambling before the RSVP deadline. It is particularly useful when you are attending multiple weddings in one season and need to balance generosity with financial reality. The calculator also settles the common debate between partners about how much is appropriate to spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I spend on a wedding gift?
As a general guide, close friends and family typically spend $100 to $250, while colleagues and acquaintances spend $50 to $100. If you are also in the wedding party, your gift may be higher. Consider the cost of attending (travel, accommodation) when setting your budget.
Should I buy from the wedding registry or choose my own gift?
Buying from the registry is the safest choice, as the couple has selected items they genuinely want and need. If the registry is empty or you prefer something personal, a monetary contribution or a meaningful keepsake are both appropriate alternatives.
Is it acceptable to give cash as a wedding gift?
Cash and monetary gifts are widely accepted and increasingly preferred by couples, especially those who already share a household. Present cash in a card with a personal message. Many couples set up honeymoon funds or house deposit contributions as alternatives to physical registries.
When should I send a wedding gift?
Traditionally, you have up to one year after the wedding to send a gift. However, sending it within two to three months is more practical and considerate. If you are attending the wedding, bringing the gift or having it delivered beforehand is easiest for the couple.
What are good alternative wedding gifts?
A charitable donation in the couple\'s name, a premium experience voucher (cooking class, wine tasting, spa day), a personalised piece of art for their home, or a contribution toward a specific experience they are planning (honeymoon, house renovation) are all thoughtful alternatives to traditional gifts.