Summer is here and your weekends are suddenly filled with back-to-back weddings. You’re happy to go, but you know it will cost you. Don’t worry; there are a few tricks for surviving wedding season without breaking the bank.
Shop Early and Smart
There are a couple of benefits to shopping for a gift early: For one, you’ll have time to stake out an item in the couple’s registry to see if it goes on sale. Another plus is there’s more variety on the registry so you can find those $30 teakettles or $50 sheets. Wait until the last minute and you may only find the big-ticket stuff.
Personalize It
Want to make a big impact with a small gift? Get creative. Find a small item on the couple’s registry that fits in your budget and then personalize it. If you purchased an inexpensive wine opener from the registry, consider including a list of great wines for the couple to try. Or upgrade a bakeware item by attaching a handwritten note card with one of your favorite recipes. This way, you’re adding a special touch to your gift without spending more.
Don’t Feel Obligated to Overspend (or Attend)
If you’re invited to a very lavish ceremony or a destination wedding, you might feel pressured to spend more. Don’t. Generally speaking, the closer you are to the couple, the more you should give—it’s not about the size of the event. You should never feel obligated to spend more than you can afford or, in extreme cases, attend a wedding that will cost you money you don’t have. If you’re unable to attend, be up front about it when you receive the invitation. Write a personal note with your regrets and send it back with your RSVP. It’s also perfectly acceptable to follow up with a polite phone call and send a small gift even if you’ve declined to attend.
Team Up With Other Guests
Give a group gift. Yes, even Peggy Post-types will tell you it’s okay to get together with a few other people to pitch in for a big-ticket item. Many couples even expect it, and that’s why they’ve put higher priced items on their registry.
-- Charli Penn
Jul 09, 2009
See More: Budgeting , Guests