How Much Should You Really Spend on a Wedding Gift? Top Budgeting Tips

The "right" amount to spend really depends on a few things – your relationship with the couple, your personal budget, and what’s generally expected in these situations.

1. Close friend or family? You might lean towards spending a bit more. Think in the range of £50 to £100. It shows your affection and support for their new chapter.
2. A colleague or a more distant relation? £30 to £75 could be your ballpark. It's considerate and respectful, showing you care without breaking the bank.
3. Plus-one? If you're bringing a date, doubling up on that gift or at least adding a bit more can be a good move. It’s about contributing from both of you, after all.

Wedding expenses aren't just about the gift; you might have hen or stag parties to attend, outfit costs for the day, travel costs, and more. To keep your budget in check without missing out on the fun, try using the simple 60-20-20 rule:

• 60% for the Wedding: Allocate the majority of your total budget here, covering the gift, your outfit, and any significant travel costs.
• 20% for Pre-Wedding Events: This slice of your budget goes towards engagement parties and pre-wedding celebrations.
• 20% for Additional Gifts or Costs: Set aside the remainder for other gifts or unexpected expenses.

And remember, If you're worried about meeting expectations or can't afford to participate in every event, honest communication is key. Most friends and family will understand your situation and appreciate your effort to contribute in ways you can.

• Early Planning: Begin saving as soon as wedding season looms on the horizon.
• Travel and Accommodation Hacks: Book early and consider sharing costs with friends.
• Gift Buying Strategies: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, and don’t shy away from group gifts.
• Outfit Costs: Re-wearing or renting your outfit can slash your expenses dramatically.

Can’t make it to the wedding? It’s still a nice gesture to send a gift to show you're thinking of the couple. 

Here are some tips for sending a wedding gift when you're unable to attend the celebration:

• Choose a gift that fits within your budget, aiming for the £30 to £50 range as a guideline.
• Write a heartfelt note expressing your congratulations and regrets for missing their special day.
• Check and plan for shipping times if you're ordering online to ensure the gift arrives timely.
• Send the gift directly to the couple's preferred address, which might be listed on their wedding website or invitation.
• Consider the couple’s preferences or items from their wedding registry to select a gift they'll love and use.

We’ve all been there. Times when the budget is tighter than a jar lid that just won’t budge. If that’s your current scenario, here are a couple of tips:

• Group Gifts: Team up with other friends or family members. Pooling your resources can allow you to give something truly special without any single person shouldering the whole cost.
• Heartfelt over High-cost: Sometimes, it's not about the price tag but the thought. A heartfelt, personalised gift can mean more than the most expensive item on their registry.

If your budget is really tight and spending money on a wedding gift just isn’t feasible, consider these meaningful alternatives:

• Offer your skills or time as a gift, like photography, baking the wedding cake, or DJing.
• Create a handmade gift, such as a scrapbook of memories with the couple.
• Write a thoughtful letter or poem, reflecting on your relationship with them and your wishes for their future.

These personal gestures can be incredibly meaningful, highlighting your effort and thoughtfulness, which often hold more value than a monetary gift.

Ultimately, the amount you spend on a wedding gift should feel right to you. Whether you choose something from the registry, contribute to a group gift, or get creative with a personalised present, it’s the thought and love behind your gift that truly matters. Weddings are a celebration of love, and your presence, whether in person or in spirit, is a significant part of that celebration.