The amount you should give as a wedding gift depends on several factors including your relationship with the couple, your budget, and how much the couple is spending to host you.

General Guidelines for Wedding Gift Amounts

• Acquaintances or coworkers: $20–$50 is typical, especially if attending solo or if you are younger or just starting out financially

• Friends or distant relatives: $50–$100 is a common range

• Close friends and family: $100–$250 is customary, especially if you are attending with a partner

• Relatives or very close friends: $250–$500 or more can be appropriate if within your budget, or if contributing to a group gift for a higher-priced registry item

• Immediate family or very close friends: $150–$200 or more, particularly if you are part of the wedding party

Additional Considerations

• The traditional etiquette suggests your gift should roughly equal the amount the couple spends on hosting you, such as their per-person reception cost. For example, if the couple spends about $150 per guest, your gift might be around that amount or more for two people

• If attending with a plus-one, consider increasing your gift by 1.5 to 2 times the standard amount

• For destination weddings, you might give a smaller gift due to your travel and accommodation expenses

• Your financial situation matters; only give what you can comfortably afford without feeling pressured

• Cash gifts are common and practical, allowing the couple to buy what they need, but a thoughtful physical gift is also appreciated if preferred

Summary Table of Suggested Gift Amounts

Relationship to Couple| Suggested Gift Amount (USD)
---|---
Coworkers / Acquaintances| $20 - $50
Friends / Distant Relatives| $50 - $100
Close Friends / Family| $100 - $250
Close Relatives / Wedding Party| $150 - $500+

Ultimately, the right amount depends on your closeness to the couple, your budget, and any other contributions you have made to their wedding events. Giving what feels appropriate and comfortable is the key principle