2009.06.22
Declined any wedding invitations lately?
This is the popular time of year for tying the knot. My mailbox is evidence of that, because I've received several invitations to weddings this season.
So far, I've purchased gifts for two weddings, though I've been more particular this year about how much I'm spending. I've actually split the cost with family members to save money and presented the couple with a joint gift.
Still, according to a poll conducted by AP and Brides.com, wedding guests aren't holding back too much on the cost of a gift for the bride and groom. They're also not declining invitations to out-of-town weddings, even if it's an expensive trip.
The poll reports that the median cost of attending a wedding is $200, which includes travel and lodging. That cost obviously would be higher if you're traveling by airplane.
As for the wedding gift, the median cost is $80, though the most popular price point falls between $100 to $199, according to the poll.
And some people said they are more likely to purchase a gift that they can't afford than to decline a wedding invitation altogether and share the reason with the bride and groom.
What's your take on this poll's findings? And do you have any helpful tips on finding inexpensive wedding gifts?
I always go to weddings. I havent turned any down. But this economoy has taken a hit on those in the wedding industry. Brides and Grooms are not spending as much as they use to.
Comment by Styree — June 22, 2009 @ 6:15 pm
I always try to get the bride and groom something they need the most. I also price match the items i'm looking at. I typically spend around $50.00 to $75.00 on items that would cost $100 or more. I do alot of shopping online and can find the same items for less.
Comment by Jess — June 23, 2009 @ 7:17 am
I try to go to weddings of closer friends & family, but instead of spending money on a fancy gift that might only get used at special occasions, I try to do something heartfelt & useful, like put together a homemade cookbook or anniversary journal that the couple can use every day/week/year and add to that thing and it gains meaning over time.
Comment by Laura — June 23, 2009 @ 10:01 am
I'm going to be invited to a December wedding in Florida. I'll probably just spend the money on a gift instead of the travel. I'm not much on traveling a long distance in a short time. I feel guilty because she did come to my wedding... but her drive was only three hours.
Comment by Dana — June 23, 2009 @ 10:55 am
Laura,
Your ideas are great for wedding gifts that an inexpensive, yet meaningful. What is included in the anniversary journal?
Comment by Jenny Kincaid Boone — June 24, 2009 @ 1:08 pm