Weddings are expensive and the rigmarole of wedding etiquette is seriously ridiculous – and pretty outdated.

I think it’s perfectly fine to RSVP no if the bride or groom would be offended that you can’t afford much of a gift.

There are a few folks in my life that ascribe to such strict etiquette in these situations, that I am legitimately aware that if I could not “cover the cost of my dinner” with my wedding gift (keeping in mind that it’s likely to be a minimum of $150), then I ought to RSVP no. That isn’t to say that these friends don’t have other redeeming qualities, but it also is what it is with them.

The majority of my better friends could care less about whether I can shell out enough to cover my dinner and prefer that I share the day with them either way.

There was also a transitional period during college/right after college where I was still invited to family and friends of family weddings on the same invitation as my parents.

In both of these situations (being broke and being young), I think that thinking outside the box a little and finding a fun, personalized gift in your budget range can make you feel a little better about attending and look a little less tacky than a twenty crammed in a homemade wedding card.

One option is to go the DIY route. You may be awesome at creating personalized items with a Silhouette or Cricut machine. You can put together a really cool present for just a few dollars using free svg designs and putting them on inexpensive items like mugs, plates, shirts, etc.

I also think it doesn’t hurt to check out the couple’s registry. You might not be able to afford something expensive, but they may still need a few kitchen knickknacks that fit your budget and are still definitely something they want.

When looking for something unique and personalized these days, I always turn to Etsy.

Under $20

Personalized Self Inking Return Address Stamp – $15

Mrs. and Mrs. Sign – $16.95

Personalized & Engraved Christmas Ornaments – $17.95

Burlap Monogram – $18

His & Hers Key Holder Sign – $19.99

Under $35

Six Custom Wine Labels for First Married Moments – $15 (but you ought to get some wine to put them on – or you can raid your own stock and keep it under $35).

Custom Laser Engraved Cutting Board – $20.47

Mr and Mr Pillowcase Set – $22

Alphabet Letter Photography – $29.95

Unique Voice Sound Wave Recording 8 X10 – $35 (assuming you can capture your friend’s voice – maybe they just won’t ask any questions)

 

Under $50

Engraved Pyrex Pan – $36

Anniversary Wine Box – $37.74

Tea Towel Sets – $38

Song Lyric Art – First Dance 11 X 14 – $40

Love Wins Sign – $48.95

If think that once you can cross a $50 threshold, it’s better to switch to cash or a check. The amount may be a little low, but weddings are really expensive and every little bit helps to pay them off – or to help the new couple get a head start on saving for the future.

Have you ever attended a wedding when your funds were really tight? What did you give as a gift?