· Wedding planning · 3 min read
Wedding Gift Etiquette
How much should you give? Choosing a wedding gift shouldn’t feel like prepping for a tax audit, but here we are. You’re wondering if $50 will make you look stingy?
The age-old question: “How much should I give for a wedding gift?” (right up there with “Do I really have to RSVP?” and “Can I wear white if it’s a jumpsuit?”)
Let’s get straight to it.
Yes, RSVP ASAP YOU MAD PERSON! And honestly, rock the jumpsuit if you rock the jumpsuit.
Now to the gifts.
Cash Gifts vs. Physical Gifts
These days, many Aussie couples prefer cash contributions (often via a “wishing well,” which is a polite way of saying “please don’t buy us a toaster, we already have a bloody toaster.”).
So it’s no wonder you’re sweating over how many dollars to slide into that envelope. Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Is $50 acceptable for a wedding?
Technically, yes. Anything is a kind gesture. But here’s the blunt truth: $50 per guest is on the lower end in Australia, especially if you’re eating, drinking, and throwing shapes on the dance floor all night.
Your seat at that reception probably cost the couple at least triple that much, so if you can, aim higher. But if $50 is genuinely what you can afford, give it confidently – no one should go into debt over a wedding gift.
Is $100 too cheap for a wedding?
Nope. $100 per couple (or around $50–$75 per person) is totally normal here in Australia. Many guests aim for $100–$150 per couple, depending on how close they are to the couple, but don’t panic if you’re sticking around the $100 mark.
You’re showing up, you’re celebrating them, you’re not being a cheapskate. Good job.
Is $1000 too much for a wedding gift?
Look, $1000 is a VERY generous gift. Unless you’re immediate family, rolling in cash, or trying to get a mention in their wedding speech, it’s not expected.
Honestly, it might even embarrass the couple if they’re not used to big gestures. If it feels right for you, great. But know that most gifts are nowhere near that figure, and you’re not expected to drop four figures unless you really want to.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Relationship closeness: Parents and siblings often give more. Your workmate from accounts? Not so much.
- Your budget: Don’t torch your credit card for someone else’s big day.
- Wedding style: Big-city black-tie? Maybe lean towards the higher end. Backyard BBQ wedding? It’s fine to keep it lower.
- Registry or honeymoon fund: If they’ve got one, pick something in your budget range and call it a day.
Not every gift has to be cash or “fancy.” A thoughtful, handmade gift or something personal can be just as meaningful, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
It’s not about flexing your wallet. It’s about showing you care.
A Note for Couples
If you’re the one getting married, don’t stress about what guests give you. Be clear and polite on your invitations if you prefer a wishing well or a registry. And for the love of all things holy, thank your guests for whatever they give you.
There’s no one “correct” amount, but in Australia, around $150-ish per guest is common if it’s doable for you. If you can’t swing that, give what you can afford with a full heart.
Because truly, your attention, your care, your love, your encouragement matters more than the price tag – and showing up to support your people on one of the biggest days of their lives means more than any envelope ever will.
