How much cash do you give to the newlyweds?
Anyone who has been to a wedding in the past couple of years has faced the debacle of how much money to put in the card.
You’ll likely spend a few hundred before even attending the wedding so putting an additional €200 in the card can cause even more financial pressure for guests.
But the days of gifting kettles, lampshades, and towels from Arnotts are gone.
There is an assumption that guests will give the newlyweds a couple of bob on their card on their big day with €200 being the average amount.
However, Irish wedding expert Sara Kennedy said wedding guests are feeling the pinch.
“People are spending over €1,000 to just attend a wedding so it’s a huge undertaking.”
“Even though it is expensive, it isn’t deterring people from attending weddings.”
Sara explained to Her.ie that some couples are attending up to ten weddings per year, as well as planning their own.
“There’s almost an assumption there, but it is a lot of money.”
“They’re trying to get married or buy a house so they end up having to take out loans so they’re able to attend weddings, which is very tough going on people. It is an awful lot of pressure.
“It’s the done thing nowadays. There’s almost an assumption there, but it is a lot of money.
“We have to be aware that it isn’t just €200 in a card for guests. It’s the accommodation, the travel, the outfits, going abroad, and the hens and stags before that.
“It’s not just the €200 in the card but everything else in the lead-up to it.
As difficult as it can be for guests, there’s no doubt the newlyweds are grateful for whatever they’re given.
“Couples really appreciate the cash but they do understand how hard it is. It is well-earned money that is going into the card and they’re so overwhelmed by how generous people are.
“Some people are putting in way more than €200, especially close friends and family.”
“A lot of the time they are so overwhelmed by just how generous people are. Many couples can’t believe it when they open their cards and see how much people have given.”
