How much money will you give your son when he gets married?
Your son's wedding is a momentous occasion, and as a parent, you want to support him on this special day. One of the most important questions you ask yourself as a parent is, ‘How much money do I give my son when he gets married?’ Let's answer this question in detail.
General guidelines for wedding gifts
There is no set rule for how much money you should give as wedding gifts. However, experts recommend starting at €100, which can be adjusted up to €500 depending on factors such as your relationship with the couple, your budget and the cost of your attendance at the wedding. Above all, try to do this on good sense; you are the person who decides how much to give.
Is it acceptable to give less if I already have a lot of expenses for the wedding?
Yes, it is important to consider your own financial situation. If you have already incurred significant costs, such as travel expenses or buying a new wedding suit, you can adjust the amount of the gift accordingly. Want to know more about buying wedding suits? Then also read the article: Who pays for the groom's suit?
Traditional contributions from parents
Traditionally, parents offer a more sentimental gift on the wedding day, such as a family heirloom. This symbolises welcoming the spouse-to-be into the family. In addition, parents sometimes cover the cost of specific parts of the wedding, such as the rehearsal dinners, transportation on the wedding day, or even the honeymoon.
Should we still give a gift if we are already paying for part of the wedding?
Although it is not compulsory, giving a separate gift, even if you are already contributing to the wedding, is often appreciated as a personal gesture to the couple. Of course, you only do this if you can. Always consider your own financial situation.
Personalised and creative gifts
A personalised photo album or a framed picture of a precious moment can be a timeless and sentimental gift. Consider a gift that reflects the unique bond you have with your son, such as a custom-made watch with a heartwarming message. A personalised gift can be just as valuable, if not more valuable, than a cash gift. It shows deep personal commitment and love.
Factors that influence the gift amount
The amount of money you give can depend on several factors:
- Your relationship with your son and his partner: The closer you are to them, the more generous the gift could be.
- Your own financial situation: Give what fits within your budget without burdening yourself financially.
- Regional and cultural norms: These can vary, so it is important to be aware of the expectations within your community.
How can I best determine how much to give?
Consider all the above factors and be honest about what is feasible for you. It is more important that the gift comes from the heart than that it reaches a certain amount.
The meaning of the gift
Consider a gift that has special significance in your family history. This could be an inherited ring or a piece of art that has been in the family for generations. Such a gift carries not only financial value, but also an emotional and historical charge that your son will cherish throughout his life.
Budget-friendly alternatives
If your budget is limited, think of creative ways to give something meaningful. This could be a handmade item, such as a knitted scarf or a homemade photo album. These gifts show your personal effort and care, which is often more appreciated than the amount you spend.
The importance of communication
Consult with your son; communication is key. Discuss with your son what he and his partner need or want. Sometimes a contribution to their honeymoon or to a bigger cause, such as a house, can be more appreciated than a traditional gift.
