How Much Money Do You Give At A Wedding? Money-central.com understands that this question is on the minds of many wedding guests, and giving a monetary wedding gift can often feel like navigating a financial maze; therefore, we are dedicated to helping you to determine the appropriate wedding gift amount, etiquette, and alternative ideas. Whether you’re aiming to contribute to the happy couple’s honeymoon fund or simply want to offer a thoughtful token of your best wishes, this guide will offer you insightful financial advice on navigating wedding gift-giving.
1. Determining the Right Amount of Cash for a Wedding Gift
The fundamental guidelines for wedding gift spending do not change simply because you’re providing funds instead of conventional homewares. According to a recent survey, over half of the couples said between $50-$100 is the right amount, while about a thousand couples said between $20-$50. It always comes down to what feels right to you and how close you are to the couple.
To shed some additional light on this difficult issue, we decided to contact an expert.
“The amount should always be in proportion to your relationship with the couple, but you need to take your own finances into consideration as well,” explains Emily Clarke, a City & Guilds certified etiquette trainer. “While some believe that the amount you give should be a reflection of your attendance and the overall cost of the wedding, it’s not your responsibility to foot the bill of the party and you should only give what you feel comfortable with.”
She continues, “Close friends and relatives may give anything from $100, but anything over $75 is considered generous.”
Because the couple will see exactly what you spent, you may feel pressured to give more than you can afford, but this is not the point of a wedding present. Only give what feels right. Here’s a basic guide to what is regarded as a normal amount to give:
- You’re a Single Wedding Guest: $50
- You’re a Couple: $100
- You’re Immediate Family: $100+
- You’re in the Wedding Party: $100+
- You’re an Evening Guest Only: $25 – $50
- You’re a Colleague: $25 – $50
According to research from New York University’s Stern School of Business, July 2025, wedding costs vary greatly, and these guidelines are simply a starting point; therefore, visit money-central.com for budgeting tips and tools to ensure your financial well-being.
Thoughtful wedding guest places money in an envelope.
2. Navigating the Trend of Asking for Money as a Wedding Gift
It’s long been customary for couples to create a wedding gift list or to allow guests to bring a wedding present of their choice, which was usually an item for the couple’s new house. This dates back to a period when a couple would not live together before their wedding, which is less likely to be the case now. Many modern couples live together before becoming engaged and already have all the towels and toasters they require, so traditional gift lists are no longer appropriate for them.
Asking for money as a wedding gift has grown in popularity, but it is understandable that it can divide opinions among older relatives who may see it as disrespectful or impolite. However, it has become more widely accepted, and many couples are confident in requesting money for their wedding or including a monetary gift option on a traditional gift list.
They will have spent a large portion of their savings on their wedding day, and the funds will be saved for the next step in their future together. If you have always regarded giving a homeware gift as preparing the couple for their new life, monetary gifts are the modern way to do so.
2.1. Is It Okay to Give Cash as a Wedding Gift?
“It’s considered a neutral option, as the couple can put it towards anything they like,” Emily confirms.
Many couples are hesitant to ask for money and instead request donations for their honeymoon. This is frequently accomplished via a honeymoon gift list, where you may go online, transfer the amount of money you want to pay, and even allocate it to a specific excursion or treat, such as a couple’s massage on the beach. Visit money-central.com for creative financial planning tips and secure ways to contribute to the honeymoon fund.
3. Cultural Considerations for Giving Cash at Weddings
Expectations for how much money to give for a wedding vary greatly between cultures, and you should consult someone who is knowledgeable, such as a friend in the wedding party or a relative of the engaged couple.
- For example, at Japanese weddings, money is a very common gift. A friend of the couple may give £200 in Yen, while relatives may give three times this amount. The money is put in an envelope called Goshugi-bukuro, and your name and the amount are written on the front.
- In China, money is almost always gifted to the couple in red envelopes. Typically, guests determine the amount to give based on the cost of the wedding meal; therefore, the more elaborate the meal and venue, the more money is given.
- At Nigerian weddings, it is customary to have a ‘money dance,’ during which the couple is showered with money as they dance. Guests will also fill envelopes with money or a check and give them to the couple. The amount you are expected to give is highly dependent on your relationship with the couple, so we recommend asking ahead of time and preparing your gift as well as money to spray.
- Indian weddings typically do not have a wedding registry and have a ‘no boxed gifts’ policy; instead, cash or a check in an envelope is given. In Indian culture, gift amounts ending in 0 are avoided, and £51, for example, is typically given to help the couple accumulate their next £50.
- At Italian weddings, the bride frequently carries a special bag at the reception called la borsa and collects envelopes of money from guests to cover wedding expenses. The amount will vary depending on the couple and the wedding.
It is important to note that your gift should not be affected by whether it is a destination wedding. Even if you are paying for flights and accommodations, a gift is typically expected, though most couples will expect something smaller due to the expense of attending the wedding. For more information on global financial customs, visit money-central.com.
4. Factors to Consider When Giving Cash as a Wedding Gift
Giving cash as a wedding present has become increasingly common, but before slipping an envelope into the postbox or a gift box at the reception, consider the following:
4.1. Is It the Couple’s Preference?
Some couples prefer cash gifts to help fund their honeymoon, start a home renovation, or cover wedding costs. If they have set up a honeymoon fund or included a note about cash gifts being welcome, you are already in the clear.
4.2. Your Relationship with the Couple
Cash gifts can feel impersonal, so consider how close you are to the couple. If you’re a family member or lifelong friend, add a heartfelt note alongside your contribution to make it more meaningful.
4.3. The Cultural Context
Giving cash is the norm in some cultures, while it may be seen as less traditional in others. Consider what’s appropriate for the couple’s background and wedding style.
4.4. How Much Should You Give?
There’s no hard and fast rule, but it’s worth considering what you’d typically spend on a gift. Some people aim to cover the cost of their plate at the reception, while others give what feels comfortable for their budget.
4.5. How to Present It
Rather than handing over plain cash, take an extra step to present it beautifully. Put it in a thoughtful card, tuck it into a wedding-themed envelope, or include a personalised message explaining how you hope they’ll use it.
4.6. Is There a Gift List?
If the couple has created a registry or gift list, check it first. They may have selected items they need or prefer over cash, which could guide your decision.
4.7. Consider an Alternative
If you’re not entirely comfortable giving cash, why not consider gifting vouchers instead? A travel gift card for their honeymoon or a department store voucher gives them flexibility while still feeling tangible.
4.8. Don’t Feel Pressured
A wedding gift is a token of your love and support for the couple, not a financial transaction. Whether it’s a cash gift or something more traditional, what matters is the thought and care you put into it. money-central.com encourages mindful spending and thoughtful gift-giving.
Depending on the type of wedding, there are also a few other ways to decide how much to give as a cash gift for a wedding.
5. Destination Wedding Gift Etiquette
When attending a destination wedding, deciding how much money to give can be tricky. Consider your overall expenses and your relationship with the couple.
If you’re attending the wedding, you’ve likely spent a significant amount on travel, accommodation, and other costs. In this case, giving a smaller monetary gift or a thoughtful non-monetary one is acceptable. The couple will appreciate the effort and expense you’ve gone to just to be there. As a guideline, you might give between $50-$100, but there’s no need to stretch beyond your means.
If you’re unable to attend, it’s still a lovely gesture to send a gift. In this case, you might aim for a similar amount to what you’d typically give for a traditional wedding, depending on how close you are to the couple.
The amount you give should feel right for your budget and reflect your connection to the couple. Destination weddings are often smaller and more intimate, so the focus is more on celebrating together than on extravagant gifts. Whatever you give, a heartfelt note will always make it extra special. money-central.com supports responsible financial decisions tailored to your personal circumstances.
A couple receiving cash as a wedding gift in a red envelope.
6. Adjusting Gift Amounts When Attending With Other Guests
When attending a wedding with others who are also contributing a gift, such as family members, it’s natural to wonder if you should adjust how much you give. The answer depends on a few factors, but the key is to approach it with thoughtfulness and balance.
If you’re part of a group gift, such as a family pooling funds for a larger present, it’s reasonable to contribute less than you might give individually. This approach can often result in a more impactful gift, like a higher-value item from the couple’s registry or a generous cash contribution towards their honeymoon.
However, if you’re giving your own gift alongside others, your amount doesn’t need to change based on what they’re giving. Everyone’s financial situation is different, and what’s meaningful is the gesture, not the amount.
The focus should always be on your personal budget and relationship with the couple. Whether it’s a group gift or an individual one, include a heartfelt note to show your love and support. It’s not about how much you give but the sentiment behind it. Explore financial planning strategies at money-central.com to better manage your gift-giving budget.
7. Alternatives to Giving Money as a Wedding Present
There is absolutely no obligation to give cash as a wedding gift if you don’t want to; gifts should be given in the spirit of generosity and not as a duty. That said, there’s often a reason the couple have asked for money, so it does no harm in politely asking the couple why.
If you’re uneasy about giving money as a gift, communicate this with the couple and see if there’s an alternative way you can contribute to what they’re putting the money towards.
- If they haven’t already explained it on their wedding website, it could be they’re saving up for a new addition to the family or for a new kitchen. Once you understand, you could offer to buy them gift vouchers for a large department store that will help their overall aim.
- If it’s saving for a honeymoon, you could get them a prepaid travel money card or currency in notes for the country they’re going to.
- Lots of gift lists give you the opportunity to buy things such as a honeymoon experience – this will aid them in affording their dream honeymoon but allow you to give something more tangible.
There are lots of alternatives to giving physical cash money as a wedding gift, and all of them will be greatly appreciated by the couple. Here are some of our favorites:
- A Couples’ Cooking Class or Experience Day: Help the newlyweds kick off their marriage with a fun activity they can enjoy together, like a cooking or cocktail-making class, pottery workshop, or wine-tasting experience. It’s a gift that creates memories – and skills – they’ll cherish.
- Personalised Artwork for Their Home: A custom illustration of their wedding venue, a map of a special location, or even a quirky family portrait (pets included!) can make for a thoughtful and sentimental keepsake.
- High-Quality Luggage or Travel Accessories: For couples who love to travel, stylish and durable luggage, personalised passport holders, or even a travel journal are practical yet exciting gifts that can follow them on their honeymoon and beyond.
- A Monthly Subscription Box: Think gourmet cheese, wine, coffee, books, or even plants! A subscription box tailored to their tastes will bring joy month after month.
- A Donation to a Cause Close to Their Hearts: If the couple is socially conscious, make a donation in their name to a charity they care about. It’s a meaningful way to honour their union and support their values.
- An Outdoor Adventure Kit: If they’re the outdoorsy type, a picnic basket with all the essentials, a high-quality tent, or matching hiking gear is perfect for future adventures.
- A Custom Recipe Book: Gather recipes from their family and friends, or compile dishes that represent their favourite cuisines and memories together. Add personal notes for an extra special touch.
- A Framed Star Map: Capture the stars on the night of their wedding (or another meaningful date) with a beautifully framed star map. It’s both romantic and unique.
- A Membership or Season Pass: Gift them a membership to a local museum, botanical garden, or zoo, or consider season passes to their favourite theatre or sports team.
- Luxurious Bedding or Towels: Treat them to something indulgent, like high-thread-count sheets, a cosy duvet, or plush towels. Bonus points for monogramming them!
- A DIY Memory Box or Scrapbook Kit: Encourage them to preserve their wedding memories and honeymoon highlights by gifting a chic memory box or scrapbook filled with supplies.
- A Unique Board Game or Puzzle: For cosy nights in, a high-quality board game, a personalised puzzle, or even a game that reflects their relationship is a thoughtful and fun gift.
- A Food or Drink Experience at Home: Consider a cheese and charcuterie delivery, a home-brewing kit, or a bottle of artisanal gin paired with tonics and glasses to celebrate in style.
- A Custom Welcome Mat or Doormat: Help them make their house a home with a doormat that features their last name or a cute, personalised design.
- A Handwritten Letter or Keepsake Box: Finally, if you’re looking for something ultra-personal, write a heartfelt letter or gift them a keepsake box to store their most treasured wedding mementos.
money-central.com provides insights on creating memorable gifts that align with your budget and the couple’s preferences.
A wedding guest hands over a beautifully wrapped present.
8. Tips for Engaged Couples on Asking for Money as Wedding Gifts
If you’re approaching this from the other side and are an engaged couple wondering how to ask for money as a wedding gift or what you can expect to be given, here are some ideas of what you can do.
- Ask on your invitations for guests to bring cash gifts on the day and state if there will be a secure money box or gift table to leave them. We’d recommend explaining what you want to save the money towards if you have an idea in mind. You may feel awkward about asking outright, so one of these money poems is a cute way to do it.
- Create a wedding gift list that has both gift options and a money donation option. Guests then have the choice between buying a tangible gift for you and/or giving you a financial gift.
- If you want money towards your honeymoon, set up a honeymoon gift list where funds can go towards the costs of flights and hotels or towards specific trips and activities. A guest might love to know they’re paying for a bungee jump in New Zealand and see the photos afterwards.
- If you have a specific purchase in mind, such as saving up for a house, you can set up a fun website where guests can donate their cash to that specific thing. For example, a website called ‘Buy Us A Brick’ where guests can buy you figurative bricks to build your first home.
money-central.com provides resources for setting financial goals and managing your wedding budget effectively.
Still considering buying a gift? Browse our edit of the best wedding gifts for couples here.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Wedding Gift Money
9.1. Is it rude to give cash as a wedding gift?
No, it’s generally not considered rude, especially if the couple has indicated that they prefer cash gifts. However, presentation matters, so include a nice card and consider a wedding-themed envelope.
9.2. How much money should I give if I’m attending as a plus-one?
If you’re attending as a plus-one, consider contributing around $50-$75, depending on your relationship with the person who invited you and your budget.
9.3. What if I can’t afford to give a monetary gift?
If you’re on a tight budget, a thoughtful handmade gift or a heartfelt card expressing your best wishes is perfectly acceptable. Your presence is what truly matters.
9.4. Should I give more if the wedding is at an expensive venue?
While the venue’s cost isn’t your responsibility, consider giving a bit more if you can comfortably afford it, especially if you’re close to the couple.
9.5. Is it okay to ask the couple directly what they prefer?
Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the couple directly what they prefer. They’ll likely appreciate your thoughtfulness.
9.6. What’s the best way to present a cash gift?
The best way to present a cash gift is in a nice card with a heartfelt message. You can also use a wedding-themed envelope or a decorative money holder.
9.7. Should I still give a gift if I’m traveling a long distance to attend the wedding?
If you’re traveling a long distance, it’s acceptable to give a smaller gift or forgo a gift altogether. Your presence is greatly appreciated.
9.8. What if the couple has a registry and asks for cash?
If the couple has a registry and also asks for cash, it’s up to you to decide which option you prefer. Choose whatever feels most comfortable and appropriate.
9.9. Is it appropriate to give a gift card instead of cash?
Yes, gift cards are a great alternative to cash, especially if you’re unsure what the couple needs. Choose a gift card from a store or restaurant that they enjoy.
9.10. How do I decide how much to give for a destination wedding?
For destination weddings, consider your travel expenses. It’s acceptable to give a smaller gift than you would for a local wedding or forgo a gift altogether.
10. Conclusion: Thoughtful Gift-Giving, Thoughtful Financial Planning
Deciding how much money to give at a wedding involves balancing etiquette, personal finances, and cultural norms. Ultimately, your gift should reflect your relationship with the couple and your ability to contribute. Whether you opt for cash, a thoughtful alternative, or simply your presence, the gesture of celebrating their union is what truly matters. Visit money-central.com for more tips on managing your finances and making informed decisions.
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