Wedding gifting has evolved, and that’s a good thing. Today, generosity is less about checking boxes and more about intention, timing, and understanding what truly supports the couple you’re celebrating. Whether you’re attending one event or several, giving a gift should feel meaningful, not stressful. Here’s how gift-giving works now—and how to do it well.
for the couple
How Much to Spend
There’s no fixed number—and there shouldn’t be. What’s considered appropriate today is based on:
• Your relationship to the couple
• Your own financial comfort
• The type of celebration you’re attending
For most guests attending as a couple, $200–$400 total is considered thoughtful and appropriate. Close family and friends often give more. The goal isn’t to “cover your plate,” but to give in a way that feels genuine.
What to Give
They help couples pay for the celebration itself, start married life, or invest in what they truly need. Cash is practical, flexible, and widely appreciated.
Drink by Tapped Into The Catskills.
Photo by Anthony Shkraba Photography.
More than ever, couples are clear about what they want, and the best etiquette is to follow their lead.
• Cash gifts are now the standard wedding gift.
They help couples pay for the celebration itself, start married life, or invest in what they truly need. Cash is practical, flexible, and widely appreciated.
• Registries are best used for showers.
Physical gifts—especially home goods—are most welcome before the wedding, not on the wedding day itself. If a registry exists, it’s there for a reason. And if the couple requests cash, honoring that request is thoughtful, not impersonal.
Group Gifting
Pooling resources with friends or family remains a wonderful option, especially for higher-value or handcrafted items. This allows guests to give something lasting without overextending individually.
for the shower
The shower is where physical gifts shine. This is the perfect moment to give:
• Registry items
• Handmade or locally crafted home goods
• Jewelry, textiles, leather goods, or ceramics
Shopping locally for shower gifts supports artisans and gives the couple something personal and meaningful—often more special than mass-produced items.
Photo by Lucas T Photography.
Photo by Cottonbro Photography.
Photo by Bruna Fossile.
for the wedding party
Wedding party members give their time, energy, and often their own money. Thank-you gifts today are less about matching items and more about useful, wearable, or experiential gifts.
Thoughtful Options Include:
• Jewelry or accessories from local makers
• Gift cards for spa treatments or favorite local restaurants
• Leather goods, scarves, or handcrafted accessories
• Experience gifts (outdoor adventures, tastings, classes)
wedding favorsy
Favors are optional and increasingly minimal. When couples choose to include them, the best favors are:
• Edible or usable
• Locally made
• Thoughtfully simple
Ideas that work beautifully:
• Local confections
• Seeds or small plants
• A meaningful note in place of a physical item
Today’s couples are choosing quality over quantity, and guests appreciate it.
ADALAE ARTISTRY FLORAL PRESERVATION
Hudson Valley, 845-750-9442, @adalaeartistry, adalaeartistry.com
Hudson Valley artist Joan Richardson’s specialty is the delicate art of preserving flowers in their true form and casting them in resin to create timeless heirlooms to enjoy and admire for ages. If you’d like to keep your precious wedding flowers forever, Joan is the woman for the honor of that task.
CURRY SUBARU
Kingston, 845-960-0925currysubarukingston.com
Looking for a reliable Subaru dealership in the Hudson Valley or Catskills? Curry Subaru in Kingston, NY offers award-winning service, a transparent car-buying experience, and one of the most trusted vehicle brands in the Northeast. From snowy-road ready AWD vehicles to high-mileage performance, Curry Subaru is where Upstate NY shops for confidence on the road.
STONE RIDGE INSURANCE
Stone Ridge, 845-687-2828, stoneridgeinsurance.net
Since opening in 2009, Stone Ridge Insurance has taken pride in providing clients with outstanding service and a personalized experience every time. Owner Donald has grown into insurance education and helps people understand why they pay what they pay, to know how to be treated, and to help them protect themselves if they ever need it. Donald is an invaluable resource to his community and is always happy to share his knowledge of the insurance industry.
THE MAD HATTER CHIMNEY SWEEP
Accord, 845-687-4745, madhatterchimney.com
Now that you’re hitched, you may decide to purchase a new home. Make that new home warm and cozy with The Mad Hatter’s expert chimney and fireplace services. From chimney installation and ventilation to chimney cleaning and fireplace/chimney repair, they do it all. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, you can be sure that your home is in good hands.
ULSTER INSURANCE SERVICES
Hudson Valley, 845-338-6000, UlsterSavings.com/Insurance
You deserve personal service and expert advice for all your insurance needs. You may even save a bundle when you bundle auto and home insurance. Ask US for a free insurance review. We are a local and independent insurance agency conveniently located at Ulster Savings Bank.
ULSTER SAVINGS BANK
Hudson Valley, 845-338-6322, UlsterSavings.com
You deserve the very best when it comes to your financial future! This award-winning community bank is locally owned and has been serving the Hudson Valley for 174 years. Count on US for personalized, cutting-edge banking solutions, local expertise, and hometown service. It’s all right here…with US! Member FDIC.
