Q: How much should you spend on a shower gift?

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A: For many of us, figuring out what to buy for a shower gift is the first thought that comes to mind upon receiving a shower invitation. It is important to remember that the amount you spend on a shower gifts is based on two factors: How close you are to the bride and groom and you entire gift budget for the engagement party, bridal shower and the wedding.

Traditionally, the focus of gift-giving at a bridal shower is to build up a collection of household items that the couple will need. For example, kitchen appliances are more appropriate than a cash gift. You can find shower gift ideas on the couple’s registry. Registries typically cover a wide range of prices from inexpensive tools and accessories like pizza cutters and vegetable skewers to the big ticket items such as china or stemware. The amount of money you spend on a gift will vary depending on your relationship to the recipient. If you are a close friend, you should splurge a little more. If you are a coworker, pooling your money together with office friends to purchase a larger gift is certainly acceptable. Whatever you decide to do,keep in mind that your shower gift should cost less than your wedding gift. If you’re on a tight budget, try to go for a more personal gift. Instead of simply gifting a picture frame from the bride’s registry, collect photos of the couple from over the years and create a unique photo display. You could also assemble a “wedding day emergency kit” with nail polish, bobby pins, a needle and thread, band-aids, etc. Or you could add on a promise a “Labor of Love” for the couples’ new home – volunteer to help out with tasks around the house such as painting or wallpapering. Some other suggestions for less expensive, but thoughtful, shower gifts are a bottle of wine or champagne, a cookbook or personalized stationary. Ultimately, it is completely up to you as to how much you spend on a shower gift. Make sure you do what feels right for you! Good luck!