Show me the money: How much should you give at a wedding?

It’s an awkward question we have all asked ourselves at some point. You’ve got the wedding invite, you’re going to the wedding but just what kind of gift will you give the happy couple? And if you have opted for cash instead of a present, an even more awkward question remains, just how much money is enough?

It's important to keep in mind that there are no strict rules when it comes to wedding gifts, and what matters most is your thoughtful gesture and best wishes for the newlyweds. But typically, wedding guests in Ireland offer cash gifts ranging from €50 to €200.

According to Irishfinancial.ie: “As a basic rule of thumb that is often used for wedding gifts in Ireland, the gift should be enough to cover the price of your meal (if you can afford it). Depending on the venue, the price per head may be anywhere from €60 to €150 per head.”

However, the amount of money that’s appropriate for a wedding gift in Ireland can vary widely depending on your relationship with the couple and your personal financial situation. If you are a family member or are very close with the couple, €150-200 would be common, but €100 would be a safe bet.

Another important consideration is your type of wedding invitation: whether you were invited to the entire wedding celebration or just the evening reception (afters). If your invitation-only covers the afters, it's generally more suitable to give a smaller gift.

Given the current cost of living crisis, it's clear that not everyone is in a position to provide a cash gift. A heartfelt and considerate present, or something crafted personally, will always be warmly received. The key is to contribute what you're comfortable with and can afford.

Some guests may choose to give more or less based on their individual circumstances. Ultimately, the most meaningful gift is one that comes from the heart.