Champagne glasses toast at a wedding celebration

Wedding Gift Amount Calculator

Calculate the right wedding gift amount based on your role, venue, and etiquette guidelines.

Frequently Asked Wedding Gift Questions

For cousins, the 2026 guideline is typically between $105-$140 and $180-$240. For casual weddings, $105-$140 are common, for standard venues $140-$190. For very close family bonds, $150+ is also possible.

Guests who join after dinner ("evening guests") typically give less. An amount between $70-$90 per person is considered appropriate here and usually covers the drink costs.

In many regions, guests orient themselves by the costs they incur. Currently, location, catering, and drinks for a classic wedding cost about $90-$160 per guest. The goal is often to cover this amount with the gift.

Cash gifts are most popular for weddings since the couple can buy exactly what they really need. Physical gifts are only recommended if you know their specific wishes.

As best man or maid of honor you already invest time and often money in planning and the bachelor or bachelorette party. A cash gift is still common. A practical range is $210-$280. The calculator accounts for that effort so the envelope alone does not need to be huge.

In the United States, annual exclusion limits govern tax-free gifts to individuals, while lifetime exemptions protect much larger transfers. Typical guest wedding gifts are usually far below these reporting thresholds. This is general orientation only, not legal or tax advice.

As a couple the amount does not simply double, but it tracks two guests. For friends, $210-$280 is a common floor. Closer friends or relatives often give $330-$450 as a couple.

Yes, that is widely accepted. If you travel far and pay for your own hotel, you can usually reduce the gift by about $10. Couples appreciate the effort of showing up.

A Gentle Reminder

This recommendation is based on current social etiquette guidelines and regional gifting traditions.

Please remember: these numbers are a guide, not a rule. Your presence and the memories you make together are what truly matter. Financial abilities vary for many reasons, and a thoughtful gesture always outweighs a price tag. Choose the amount that aligns with your comfort and celebrate the love.

Note: Because social etiquette is subjective and trends evolve rapidly, these figures are estimates and may not perfectly reflect current norms, specific local traditions, or individual expectations.