How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding Gift to Avoid Looking Stingy?

You’ve got the invitation, you’ve saved the date—but then comes the big question: how much should you spend on a wedding gift?

Whether you're attending your cousin’s elegant garden wedding or sending a gift from overseas, it’s natural to want to hit the sweet spot between generous and reasonable. The truth? Most guests are unsure of what’s expected, and no one wants to look cheap.

Here’s your ultimate guide to wedding gift spending—based on etiquette, real-world trends, and expert advice.

Why Everyone Cares About This

In today’s digital age, even wedding gifting can go viral. A recent TikTok by bride Alizé Ruiz sparked outrage when she revealed that out of 120 guests, only a dozen gave gifts. Commenters were divided, but one thing became clear: gift expectations are a modern minefield.

Couples are noticing. Guests are second-guessing. And now more than ever, the etiquette around wedding gifting feels like a public test of manners. That's why knowing the latest guidelines can help you show up (or show support from afar) without overthinking it—or overspending.

Wedding Gift Spending Guidelines: The Short Answer

If you're looking for a quick cheat sheet, here it is. Based on traditional etiquette, modern culture, and expert sources:

Do You Have to Buy from the Registry?

Not necessarily—but it's encouraged.

The registry was created to make your life easier and the couple's gifts more useful. However, if everything left on the registry is too expensive or uninspiring, here are some alternatives:

Pair a small registry item (like measuring spoons or a wine opener) with a gift card or cash.

Team up with other guests to buy a larger item.

Give money alone—a totally acceptable option these days, especially when wrapped with a kind note or personal message.

🎁 Bonus tip: Add a card explaining why you chose your gift. It adds a personal touch and shows you didn’t just grab something random.

How Much to Spend If You're Not Attending the Wedding

Etiquette still recommends sending a gift, especially if you received a formal invitation. But the amount can be more modest.

Good options include:

• Sending a digital gift card or small physical gift from the registry
• Personalized keepsakes, such as framed art or monogrammed items
• Charity donations made in their honor
• Heartfelt cards paired with flowers or treats

You don’t have to spend a fortune, but letting the couple know you’re thinking of them goes a long way.

What the Experts Say (And the Wedding Gift Formula That Might Help)

Etiquette experts and financial planners often suggest that the perfect gift amount depends on three main factors: your relationship to the couple, your personal budget, and whether you're attending the wedding in person.

Some wedding planners even recommend a simple formula to guide your decision:

💸 Gift Budget = (Closeness Factor × Base Amount) + Plus-One Adjustment

Where:

• Closeness Factor is 1 for coworkers, 2 for friends/relatives, and 3 for close family.
• Base Amount is typically set at $50.
• Plus-One Adjustment adds another 50% if you're attending with a guest.

Example: If you’re going to your cousin’s wedding with your partner, the math would look like:
(2 × $50) + 50% = $150.

Of course, this is not a strict rule,  but it can help remove the guesswork. As etiquette expert Lizzie Post (of the Emily Post Institute) often reminds people: “It's not about the amount—it's about the thought, the appropriateness, and what you can afford.”

Other Smart Gift-Giving Guidelines

These additional tips will keep your gift thoughtful, budget-friendly, and stress-free:

• Stick to your budget. Don’t feel pressure to give more than you can afford—etiquette doesn’t demand that.
• A gift is never mandatory. Especially if you’re going through financial hardship or if you weren’t close to the couple.
• Group gifts are totally OK. Just make sure everyone agrees on the total amount and how it’s presented.

A card is always better than nothing. Even a short, kind message in a nice envelope makes an impression.

Looking for the Perfect Gift for a Food Lover? These Home Appliances Never Fail

Home appliances remain among the most appreciated wedding gifts—especially when chosen with the couple’s habits and passions in mind. For food lovers or newlyweds setting up a shared kitchen, the right appliance can become a daily companion, a source of joy, and a lasting reminder of your thoughtful gesture. Here are some of the most beloved choices in 2025.

Air fryer
The air fryer has firmly earned its place on modern countertops. It’s a gift that combines health, convenience, and versatility. Couples can prepare everything from golden fries to roasted vegetables and crispy tofu without needing a drop of oil. It’s especially appreciated by newlyweds who are short on time but still want to cook at home without compromising on taste.

Espresso machine
An espresso machine isn’t just a kitchen tool—it’s a ritual-maker. For couples who love coffee, receiving one of these elegant machines means starting every morning with a moment of shared calm and comfort. Whether they’re fans of classic espresso or more elaborate drinks like cappuccino and macchiato, it turns their home into a mini café, with all the intimacy and indulgence that implies.

Stand mixer
A timeless wedding gift, the stand mixer is both iconic and incredibly useful. It’s ideal for couples who love baking or cooking together, and it becomes the centerpiece of the kitchen—not only because of its performance, but also thanks to its distinctive design. From kneading dough to whipping meringues or preparing homemade pasta, it’s a symbol of culinary creativity.

Blender or smoothie maker
For health-conscious couples or those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, a powerful blender or smoothie maker is a welcome addition. It encourages fresh, fast choices—from morning smoothies to soups and sauces—and invites newlyweds to explore new flavors together. It’s a smaller gift that still manages to make a big impact on their everyday routines.

Multi-cooker
The multi-cooker, such as the Instant Pot, is the ultimate ally for busy households. With functions that include pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, and more, it replaces several appliances at once. It’s perfect for couples who want to eat well with minimal effort, and it’s especially appreciated by those with limited kitchen space.

Wine fridge or beverage cooler
For couples who love to entertain—or who simply enjoy relaxing with a glass of something chilled—a wine fridge or beverage cooler is a refined and elegant gift. It adds a touch of luxury to the home while also being incredibly practical, keeping wines and soft drinks at the perfect temperature for any occasion, from quiet evenings to dinner with friends.

Robot vacuum
While not strictly food-related, the robot vacuum deserves its place among top wedding gifts. It helps keep the home tidy without effort, making it ideal for couples who cook often and want to spend more time enjoying meals and less time cleaning up. It’s also a smart choice for pet owners or anyone who appreciates a clean floor with minimal hassle.

These appliances aren’t just tools—they’re invitations to build habits, share experiences, and make everyday life smoother and more enjoyable. When chosen well, they’re gifts that don’t gather dust—they get used, loved, and remembered.