What is considered to be a reasonable amount of
cash to give a co-worker for a wedding gift?
"Reasonable" is always a tricky thing to estimate-- and
unfortunately, the amount considered appropriate for a cash gift
depends on a number of
factors. The main factors include:
~ your relationship to the co-worker
~ the length of time you've known the co-worker
~ your age in relation to theirs
~ your financial status in relation to theirs
~ your region of the US
~ your general social circle (and expectations, to some extent)
~ your general gift-giving practices
In the West, where I live and work, I would say that at the
average middle income wedding, the average gift for a person with
whom the giver has a limited relationship (co-worker,
out-of-state relative, etc.) probably ranges between about 25 and
50 dollars.
For upper income social circles, the numbers are probably more
like $50 - 100. In eastern and southern US cities, the average
amounts seem to be a bit higher. Also, the general gift-giving
etiquette appears to be a bit more strict.
A special relationship between you and the bride or groom might
suggest a slightly higher gift amount. Also, a general habit on
your part of giving larger gifts would also need to be considered.
The one other method I have heard for determining the amount of a
wedding gift is to double what you would give if you were giving
this person a birthday gift.
This is not a formal etiquette rule, but something I have seen in
use by guests, and it seems pretty reasonable to me. Not all of
us have the same gift giving practices-- or the same finances-- so
a one-size-fits-all amount has never seemed appropriate to me.
A rule of thumb like this "double a birthday" amount makes sense
because it allows for the gift giver's personality and budget, as
well as the social practices of their area and social circle.
For some people, it's easier to consider how much they would be
willing to spend on an actual present. However, if you are a
thrifty person, like me, this doesn't work because I either make
or shop very carefully for presents-- so for them to buy the same
thing would cost more.
I wish I could give you a specific range, but hopefully these
considerations will help you decide what you'll feel comfortable
giving.
Best wishes to you and to the bride and groom--
Sara Ambarian --Staff expert-- Foreverwed.com
author of "A Bride's Touch: A Handbook of Wedding Personality and
Inspiration"/
creative consultant/custom bridal designer
mailto:sara@foreverwed.com
For more wedding information:
http://www.foreverwed.com/~sara
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