How Much Should You Spend on a Bridal Shower Gift?

Before the big day arrives, there are a variety of different pre-wedding events to participate in. And if you’re a close friend or relative of the bride, that will likely include attending her shower. Whether she chooses to celebrate her upcoming nuptials with brunch, afternoon tea, or a luncheon, the proper etiquette of the party remains the same—including how much you’re expected to spend on her bridal shower gift. 

Even though you’re likely attending the bride’s wedding—and planning on giving the newlyweds an item from their registry then—you’re still expected to purchase a gift for the bridal shower. “One of the exciting aspects of a bridal shower is when the bride sits and opens her gifts and the guests witness her reactions,” says Jackie Vernon-Thompson, an etiquette expert. “You don't want to be one who did not give a gift for her to open.” However, while giving a gift may be standard, the price point for such a present varies slightly. “The price of the gift depends on several factors,” says Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert. “First and foremost, your particular budget. Then, the relationship you have to the bride or groom, and how close you are to the couple."

Here, Vernon-Thompson and Gottsman walk you through everything you need to know about purchasing a bridal shower gift, including how much to spend, what to consider purchasing, and whether it's ever acceptable to forgo the present.

Do You Need to Bring a Gift to the Bridal Shower? 

Yes. You shouldn’t plan to show up to the shower empty-handed. However, it is acceptable to purchase a gift off of the registry and have it sent to the bride beforehand. Additionally, some brides may specifically request that guests don’t bring a gift. In that case, it’s okay to follow her wishes.

How Much Should You Spend on a Bridal Shower Gift? 

It depends on the role you play in the shower—and in the bride's life. “The person who coordinated and spent the money to host the shower is not obligated to give a separate gift,” Vernon-Thompson says. ”They have already contributed heavily.” However, if you still want to give a gift as one of the hosts, you can opt to do so. “You don’t necessarily have to spend more, but you may want to pull your resources with the rest of the hosts to purchase one gift,” Gottsman says.

Ultimately, how much you spend on your gift comes down to your relationship with the bride. “Each guest will consider their level of relationship with the bride to determine how much they will spend on the gift” Vernon-Thompson says. If you’re a bridesmaid, consider spending between $50 and $75 on a bridal shower gift. If you’re the maid of honor, you may opt to spend a bit more. And if you just consider yourself an acquaintance of the bride, you’re expected to spend at least $25 on a gift, Vernon-Thompson says. However, if you’re a close childhood friend or family member, you may spend up to $100 on a bridal shower gift—even if you're not part of the wedding party.

What to Consider Giving as a Bridal Shower Gift

Gottsman recommends turning to the registry to find the best present for the bride. “Although you may feel like you can give the bride something more specific, because you know her well, the registry is the best route to take because it is very specific on [the couple’s] needs,” she says. However, if you'd prefer to skip the wishlist, you can also opt to give the bride something personalized or sentimental. For example, if you know the couple’s wedding date or venue, order a watercolor illustration of the venue or a customized cutting board emblazoned with the date of their big day. Not only will these gifts add a personal touch to their home, but they'll also get the soon-to-be newlyweds even more excited for their upcoming nuptials.