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

  • A smaller gift is okay.

  • Options include:

    • Digital gift cards or small registry items.

    • Personalized keepsakes (framed art, monogrammed items).

    • Charity gifts made in their name.

    • A heartfelt card with flowers or treats.

The Expert Formula

Gift planners suggest this rule of thumb:

Gift Budget = (Closeness Factor × $50) + Plus-One Add-On

  • Closeness Factor: 1 = coworker, 2 = friend/relative, 3 = close family

  • Plus-One Add-On: +50% if bringing a guest

Example: Attending a cousin’s wedding with your partner:
(2 × $50) + 50% = $150

It’s a helpful starting point—not a rigid rule. Focus on what you can afford.

Additional Gift-Giving Tips

  • Stick to your budget—etiquette doesn’t demand overspending.

  • Gifts are never mandatory if finances are tight or relationship is distant.

  • Group gifts are fine—just coordinate total and presentation.

  • A nice card always matters.

Popular Gift Ideas for Food Lovers

Great wedding gifts in 2025 often include kitchen appliances like:

  • Air fryer

  • Espresso machine

  • Stand mixer

  • Blender or smoothie maker

  • Multi-cooker (e.g., Instant Pot)

  • Wine fridge or beverage cooler

  • Robot vacuum

These gifts become daily tools, enriching the couple’s routine and making a lasting impression.

Final Takeaway

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but spending between $50–$200+ depending on your closeness and budget is a safe guideline. Whether you give a thoughtful card, practical cash gift, or kitchen appliance, the key is intentionality, not extravagance.

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