This obviously takes a bit of a different approach than my normal blog. Usually, I talk about all of the planning and hoopla surrounding the day. I deviate from that position because I think there are really a lot of people who have no idea what is appropriate to give as a gift for a wedding.
I truly always thought you were suppose to give cash. In some ethnic circles, cash is what is not only given but what is expected. Mainly, it is in the Chinese and Italian communities where this holds true.
For many others, a gift is a welcomed gesture but according to the powers that be this should be something more personal like a handmade quilt, etched glassware, or perhaps a bench made from a relative.
Rumor on the street was the amount of cash given should be no less than the cost of the dinner times two if you are going as a couple. The problem I always had with that rule of thumb is how are you to know what cost per plate was. Depending on where the event is being held would give some indication to the price point but a backyard wedding would be hard to predict.
So I decided to look into this a little further and check the pulse of the wedding guru, Emily Post. Ms. Post has through the years set the standard on what is appropriate and what is not. With that great introduction I was a little surprised on her response..."let your affection for the bride and groom and your budget be your guide." While I do get the drift of what she is saying, I don't feel any more educated.
So, I guess the guideline to follow is if you are attending your sister's wedding give what you can afford but you don't have to sell the ranch while doing so. Conversely, if you are attending the wedding of a peer from work be tasteful and purchase a gift from their registry or an appropriate dollar amount you can live with.
Best as Always,
Deborah Stilettos
www.Facebook.com/MyDaughterIsGettingMarried
