It's wedding season again. The wedding season is in full swing — and if you're invited as a wedding guest, the question quickly becomes: How much money do you actually give to the wedding?

In the past, people gave household appliances or crockery as gifts. Today, most couples want one thing in particular: gifts of money for the wedding — whether for a honeymoon, a house purchase or to finance the wedding reception themselves.

How much money is appropriate as a wedding guest?

There is no general answer — because the amount of the money gift depends on several factors. So that you can orient yourself, here is a practical guideline depending on the relationship with the bridal couple:

• Friends, colleagues: 30-50€
• Friends, close relatives: 50-€100
• Parents, siblings, maids of honor: €100 upwards

The guidelines are per person. It shouldn't be less than 30€ — after all, you will be cooked, served and entertained. A gift of money is therefore also a small thank you for the invitation.

Other factors for the amount of your cash gift

1. Travel and travel expenses

Is the couple celebrating in another city or region and you have to travel or stay overnight? You may then adjust the amount of money slightly downwards — for example within the lower limit of the recommended range.

2. Own financial situation

If you are currently in training, studying, or have recently married yourself — don't take over yourself. Even 30 to 50€ can be completely okay if they match the reality of your current life.

3. Costs of the wedding reception

A good clue: Ask yourself how much catering at the wedding would cost you — for example for food, drinks, location and music. In Germany, the average price per guest is around 120—150 €, even higher for upscale weddings. The aim is to contribute this amount at least on a pro rata basis.

Personal touch: creatively wrap gifts of money

An envelope with money can quickly look a bit careless. But don't worry—with a little effort, you can upgrade the gift:

• Voucher with dedication & photo
• Fold bank notes as origami (e.g. heart or ring)
• Mini treasure chest with gold coins (real & chocolate coins)
• Money tree or “financial garden” with banknotes and decoration
• Frame with custom message & banknotes as pictorial art

In this way, you show that you have thought things through — and remain positively remembered by the bridal couple.

Do's & don'ts for wedding money gifts

THU:

• Select the amount appropriate to the relationship & options
• Stylishly wrap money gifts
• Include a greeting card with a personal message

DON'T:

• Put uncommented cash in an envelope
• Round up and generalize the amount (“We always give 50€ — no matter who gets married”)
• Rely on gifts that are too expensive when it's not financially feasible

Alternatives & additions to cash gifts

In addition to pure cash, you can also give symbolic additional gifts — for example:

• A book about marital happiness or common goals in life
• A wedding candle with engraving
• A personalized photo frame with a wedding photo placeholder
• A small wedding basket with sparkling wine, glasses and a card: “For the first wedding evening for two”

These small gestures make your gift more personal — without burdening your budget.

Conclusion: Wedding gifts with heart and mind

Wedding gifts are standard these days — and even the preferred form of wedding gift for many couples. The amount depends on your relationship with the couple, your options and the type of celebration. With a little creativity, you can also make a smaller gift of money look big.

And in the end, the most important thing is: Your genuine joy about the wedding — and that you are celebrating this special day together.

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