Categories: Weddings

Wedding Gift Etiquette – 3 Rules to Live By

Wedding gift etiquette can be a confusing topic for many, and there is good reason why. Depending on the cultural background of the couple getting married different rules can apply around what type of gift to give and when.

For example, giving a gift of cash in a red envelope for a Chinese wedding is the appropriate thing to do.

Wedding gifts can also vary based on the age of the couple getting married. For example, younger couples just starting out might benefit more from receiving gifts from a wedding registry.

Older couples that are already established would probably prefer cash or gifts like wine or a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant.

There are, however, a few rules that will never steer you in the wrong direction when it comes to wedding gift etiquette. Here are three wedding gift etiquette rules to live by:

Never Attend A Wedding Without Giving A Gift

This is the number one rule of wedding gift etiquette and for good reason. Never ever show up to a wedding without a gift. Even if you are on a tight budget you should at least give what you can.

It is considered very rude to attend a wedding and give no gift or a very small gift. Buying something from the registry is a good way to go if you don’t have a lot of money to spend.

Even if you are invited and can’t attend the wedding, it is appropriate to still send a gift.

Don’t Give The Newlyweds A Gift They Don’t Want

Many couples will create a wedding registry at their favorite store with items that they would like to receive as wedding gifts. It is not considered good taste to give the bride and groom a gift that you aren’t sure they want.

It is not always a bad idea to give a gift that isn’t cash or on the registry. If you definitely know the couple will like your gift, it may be acceptable to give it. For example if both the bride and groom like to golf, then giving them a gift of a round of golf at their favorite course would be acceptable.

If you have any doubts that they might not like the gift, don’t give it and stick to the registry or cash.

Never Re-Gift Something From Your Own Wedding

If you are thinking of doing this, don’t! There is never a situation that this would be acceptable. Instead of re-gifting your unwanted gifts, consider giving them to charity.

For more information visit Wedding Gift Etiquette.