When it comes to giving money at an Italian wedding, there are a few factors to consider. First, it’s important to note that Italian weddings are often lavish and extravagant affairs, with a strong emphasis on family and tradition. As a result, the expectations for wedding gifts can be quite high.
Typically, when attending a wedding without a date, the amount of money you give should be slightly lower than if you were attending as a couple. In my experience, an appropriate range for a wedding gift without a date is between $200 and $250. This is a respectable amount that shows your appreciation for the couple and helps to cover the costs associated with the wedding.
However, if you are fortunate enough to be chosen as the best man, the expectations for your gift are typically higher. As the best man, you play a special role in the wedding and are often responsible for various tasks and expenses. In recognition of this, it is common to give a more generous gift. In my experience, a suitable amount for a best man gift at an Italian wedding would be around $400. This demonstrates your close relationship with the couple and your willingness to go above and beyond for them.
It’s worth mentioning that Italian couples are known to keep a ledger detailing the gifts they receive at their wedding. This serves as a guide for future gift-giving occasions, ensuring that they reciprocate appropriately. While this may not be the case for every couple, it’s something to keep in mind when considering the amount of money to give. Giving a generous gift not only shows your support for the couple but also helps to maintain the tradition of reciprocity within the Italian wedding culture.
The amount of money to give at an Italian wedding can vary depending on your relationship with the couple and your role in the wedding party. When attending without a date, a range of $200 to $250 is usually appropriate. As the best man, it is customary to give a more generous gift, typically around $400. Ultimately, the most important thing is to give from the heart and show your support for the couple on their special day.