How Much to Spend on a Wedding Gift (Plus Ideas at Every Budget)

Every wedding gift etiquette article gives a different number, and most of them assume you know exactly how close you are to the couple, which isn't always obvious. Here's a more realistic way to think about it.

A Realistic Budget Breakdown

• Coworker or distant acquaintance: $30-75, a group gift often makes more sense here
• Friend or extended family: $75-150
• Close friend or immediate family: $150-300, sometimes more depending on your means and the wedding itself
• Bridal party member: Often less, since you're already covering travel, attire, and pre-wedding events

Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas ($30-75)

• A registry item at the lower end of their list
• A nice bottle paired with a card
• A contribution to a group gift with coworkers or mutual friends

Mid-Range Gift Ideas ($75-150)

• A registry item in the middle of their list
• A weekend experience gift certificate
• A quality home item they didn't register for but would love

The Gift That Doesn't Depend on Budget

One of the appealing things about a group video message gift is that it doesn't really have a price tag attached, which makes it a good addition regardless of what else you're spending. Whether you're giving $30 or $300 on the registry side, contributing a video message costs nothing and adds something a gift receipt never can.

With Folksee, it works as a standalone gift or a free add-on to whatever else you're already giving, since anyone invited to contribute can do it in a few minutes from their phone.