Ask A Guru: Wedding Gift Dilemma

March 2, 2011    |    By +
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As Gift Gurus, it’s our job to be able to solve all gifting dilemma’s big and small. We’re constantly fielding questions from friends, family and coworkers on how to track down the perfect gift. So we figure, why not share our expertise with all of you!

If you’ve got a gift question, we’ve got answers. Send your gifting queries to GiftAnswers@Gifts.com, and we’ll post them on the blog.  Happy Gifting!

Q: My friend is getting married and I’m going to be a bridesmaid. The problem is, the wedding has been pushed to only 2 months away so that means I have to pay for both cross-country plane tickets for me and my date, as well as a bridal shower gift and wedding gift all around the same time. Do I spend equal amounts of money on both gifts?

A: Everyone is more budget conscious these days, so nobody is expecting overly pricey gifts.  If you’re in the wedding, it is tradition to give both a bridal shower gift and a wedding gift.  The general rule of thumb for bridal shower gifts is $25-$75, but considering your situation I would say $50 would be enough. If it’s a couple’s shower, than stick with home gifts they can both use, but if it’s just for the ladies, you could get something fun for just the bride to enjoy. Stay away from the raunchy stuff though, since the bride’s family is usually present at the shower.

For the wedding gift itself, the usual range for someone who is a close friend or family is $100, but I would say anything $75 would be enough. The couple will appreciate anyone who’s traveling a great distance for their special day, so even if you get them something small for the wedding, they consider your presence at the wedding a gift in itself. You can always split the cost of presents with your significant others or another bridesmaid and/or guest.

For more more wedding gift etiquette, check out out exclusive guide.



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Meet the Gurus


Dana H.
Dana is Editor in Chief at Gifts.com. She loves helping make every occasion stand out with her unique gift ideas, handy tips & special touches. She has over a decade of experience with matching fabulous products with fabulous people.

Dan T.
As the Men’s Gift Editor, Dan is fortunate to be able to blend his work week with off-hour hobbies. Dan’s marketing background goes back over a decade, but he's always been passionate about the “guy” things like sports, electronics and grilling.

Gillian J.
While Gillian oversees Merchandising & Content for Gifts.com, she focuses on Women & Home Gifts. Prior to Gifts.com, she spent over a decade honing her gifting skills in the retail industry.

Michelle D.
Michelle is the Gifts.com Gift Guru who specializes in Teen and Beauty gifts. For the last half-decade Michelle has been refining her teen and beauty gifting expertise by working for Urban Outfitters and obsessing over social media.

Liz T.
Liz is the children & baby gifts trend editor at Gifts.com. Prior to Gifts.com she spent several years matching people with products while working retail. Her niece and nephews give her the inside scoop on kids. She also knows the best gourmet gifts for every occasion.

Felicia W.
Felicia works as a "Gift Guru" with a focus on pet and flower trends. While she is still learning the art of gift giving, Felicia loves focusing her attention on pet gifts. She is always on the lookout for the best and most unique items for our lovable cats and dogs.

Donna K.
Donna is Gifts.com's very own Editorial Assistant. You have her to thank for all of our fabulous Facebook posts and for making sure the blog is up every day. She is a "Gift Guru" in her own right.