Wedding Gift Etiquette
I was recently asked by a reporter what my thoughts are on Wedding Gift Etiquette. Here are some of the questions and answers.
Although wedding gifts are customary, are they truly required?
If you’ve been invited to the wedding and plan on attending, you should send a gift that is at least equal to the amount of the meal. On average a $150-250 gift is appropriate. Sometimes guests will give smaller or larger gifts based on their particular financial circumstances and the type of event.
What is the time frame for wedding gifts?
It’s best to send the gift within the first couple months before or after the wedding. However, tradition says you have up to a year to send a gift.
Why do we give gifts at weddings?
Wedding gift giving is an American tradition that is based on European practices of giving gifts to help the couple setup their new home.
What if a guest never gives a gift?
Not much you can do about it. However, it may also be a shipping issue so you may want to try to casually bring it up in conversation just in case they actually did send you a gift that was lost in the mail. If it’s a close friend, you can probably just be open about the situation, “Just wanted to let you know that I might be having some mail delivery problems. Please let me know if you’ve sent something to me so I can be on the lookout for it.”
What about the possibility of theft of wedding gifts?
Unfortunately this happens more than you can image. It usually takes place at the wedding and reception where there are a pile of gifts. Suggest on your wedding website that guests send gifts verses brining them to the celebration.
Are there any statistics and data about wedding gifts and gift giving that you can give to us?
Out of my clients about 40% are choosing more modern adaptations of registering for typical gifts. Many couples have requested donations to a charity of the guest’s choosing, or the couple’s favorite charity usually tied in with a family member’s story. This type of gifting is a great option for 2nd marriages or established couples that are more financially secure.
Unfortunately this happens more than you can image. It usually takes place at the wedding and reception where there are a pile of gifts. Suggest on your wedding website that guests send gifts verses brining them to the celebration.
Are there any statistics and data about wedding gifts and gift giving that you can give to us?
Out of my clients about 40% are choosing more modern adaptations of registering for typical gifts. Many couples have requested donations to a charity of the guest’s choosing, or the couple’s favorite charity usually tied in with a family member’s story. This type of gifting is a great option for 2nd marriages or established couples that are more financially secure.
No comments:
Post a Comment