Do Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Give Wedding Gifts?

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The truth is, weddings can be expensive. Not only do you need to consider the expenses of clothing, catering, decorations, and more… but with everything going on financially, should you really add wedding gifts to the mix? Do bridesmaids and groomsmen have to give gifts on top of the time they already spend helping out for your wedding? Keep reading to find out bridesmaids and groomsmen should give wedding gifts!

Here’s what we’ll cover in this guide…
• Do Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Give Wedding Gifts?
• Are Bridesmaids Expected To Give Gifts At Other Pre-Wedding Events?
• How Much Money Should a Bridesmaid or Groomsmen Spend on a Wedding Gift?
• How Does a Group Wedding Gift Work?
• Do You Need To Buy a Wedding Gift For a Destination Wedding?

Do Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Give Wedding Gifts?

When it comes to weddings, there’s already quite a lot to think about.

The hosts, bridesmaids, and groomsmen are thinking about their dresses, suits, flowers, seating arrangements and more.

So it’s understandable if the bridesmaid and groomsmen find themselves wondering if they need to add “buy a wedding gift” to their wedding checklist.

Well, the answer is a definitive yes or no — there are a few factors to consider here.

For instance, if you’re super close with the couple, you may feel inclined to give a wedding gift, even if you’re already spending money on your duty as a bridesmaid or groomsman.

However, if you’re not as close to the couple or perhaps you feel financially uneasy, there shouldn’t be any cause for concern — your presence and work for the wedding is already a gift!

Are Bridesmaids Expected To Give Gifts at Other Pre-Wedding Events?

Now for the big question — do bridesmaids give wedding gifts at other pre-wedding events?

As a bridesmaid, you’re already spending money on a bridesmaid dress, hair, and makeup. And now you’re wondering if you should get a gift for the bridal shower, engagement party, or bachelorette party.

The short answer is… it depends.

While gift giving is always appreciated, it’s not typically expected for the bridesmaids to give gifts at every prewedding event.

But if you’re able to, it’s a nice gesture to show support and your excitement for the events.

It doesn’t necessarily need to be a large gift. Perhaps a small bottle of wine or a sentimental item should suffice.

Remember, it’s the thought that counts!

How Much Money Should a Bridesmaid or Groomsmen Spend on a Wedding Gift?

Knowing how much money to spend on wedding gifts as a bridesmaids or groomsmen is a tricky question to answer… but what is the perfect amount to spend on wedding gifts?

The answer is it really depends on your relationship to the couple and your financial situation.

It’s typically common for bridesmaids and groomsmen to spend anywhere between $50 to $150 on a wedding gift and about $25 to $50 on a smaller gift for a bridal shower.

The main thing to remember here is to not get caught up in the price tag and instead think about what the couple would truly appreciate.

How Does a Group Wedding Gift Work?

Gift giving etiquette can sometimes be tricky. That’s why most people prefer to give group wedding gifts instead.

What is a group wedding gift? It’s exactly as the name suggest — everyone chips in a certain amount (depending on how much you can afford to spend), and a designated gift-giver will choose and purchase one large gift on everyone’s behalf.

Typically, the large gift will be something from the couple’s wedding registry. So you can be sure that the couple will appreciate the gift.

Read also: How to make a wedding registry on Amazon

A designated gift-giver is not always necessary. In fact, some wedding registries will allow people to pitch in money to a large gift from the couple’s wedding registry.

From there, the gift will be shipped to their house. It’s really that simple!

Read also: How to make a Crate and Barrel wedding registry

Do You Need to Buy a Wedding Gift For a Destination Wedding?

When it comes to a destination wedding, expenses can rack up pretty quickly.

So if the couple is having a destination wedding, is it necessary to buy a wedding gift?

The answer: it’s not mandatory.

But only if it’s possible, it’s always nice to show the lovely couple your support and appreciation with something special like a sentimental item.

Again, it’s not mandatory especially if you’ve bought a bridal shower gift or any other pre-wedding gift.

At the end of the day, it’s really up to you and your relationship with the bride and groom. And remember, being part of the bridal party (especially at a destination) is already a privilege!

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Author
John Anderson
With over two decades of wedding experience, John Anderson is the Co-Founder and Executive Editor at Life Line Wedding. He writes a variety of articles spanning over multiple areas of expertise including engagement rings, diamonds, wedding jewelry, and wedding planning. John's mission is to help soon-to-be-married couples make educated and well-informed decisions. He now spends his time writing articles to help couples on Lifelinewedding.com. John is based in Brooklyn, NY.