Experts reveal Wedding Gifts Couples Secretly Don’t Want

In the weeks following Valentine’s Day, newly engaged couples start planning their weddings and guests begin quietly doing the maths on a year full of invites. With wedding gift etiquette still causing confusion, gift-giving experts at Personalised Bee have shared their guide on which presents are best avoided and what is more likely to earn a genuine smile on the big day.

Despite rising costs, Brits still spend an average of £65 on a wedding gift, although that figure drops significantly for evening-only invitations. At the same time, uncertainty around gifting remains high, with research suggesting that almost a quarter of engaged couples do not expect a gift at all, instead prioritising the presence of friends and family on their big day.

But for guests who do want to mark the occasion, Prashant Patel, gift-giving expert and owner of Personalised Bee, says knowing what not to buy is just as important as knowing what to give:

• Cash: While cash can feel practical, it often lacks the personal touch couples appreciate. Unless it’s specifically requested, most couples prefer something thoughtful that shows effort.

• Re-gifted items: Unless it’s genuinely sentimental or completely unique, re-gifting can feel impersonal and rushed.

• His & hers gifts: Matching shirts, robes or tools might seem cute, but they can come across as outdated or stereotypical.

• Perishable items: Food hampers or fresh goods can spoil if the couple are away on their honeymoon when gifts arrive.

• Gifts for future children: Even if you assume they’ll have kids, baby-related gifts are best saved until an announcement is made.

• Alcohol: A bottle of wine isn’t always a safe bet — tastes vary, and some couples don’t drink at all.

 

How much should you spend on a wedding gift? 

With wedding-related costs continuing to rise, many guests feel pressure to spend generously on gifts. But according to Prashant, couples are far more understanding than people realise.

“Spending between £50 and £100 is generally appropriate, but it should always reflect your relationship with the couple and your own circumstances. Close friends or family may choose to spend a little more, while colleagues or evening guests can spend less without any awkwardness. By the time people factor in travel, accommodation, outfits and time off work, attending a wedding can already cost hundreds of pounds. Most couples don’t expect anyone to stretch themselves financially just to meet an unspoken gifting rule.”

Wedding Gift Ideas Couples Will Actually Appreciate:

For guests unsure what to buy, Prashant suggests focusing on gifts that feel thoughtful, shared or personal.

• Experiences

Experience gifts such as a hot air balloon ride, a cooking class or a weekend getaway allow couples to spend quality time together and create lasting memories, rather than adding to household clutter.

• Personalised gifts

Items that have been customised for the couple often feel more meaningful. A custom-made game featuring their surname or initials, a framed engagement print or a personalised print can become keepsakes they enjoy for years.

• Subscription boxes

Subscription gifts offer something to look forward to long after the wedding day. From craft beer and gourmet food to beauty products, choosing a box that reflects the couple’s interests means they will receive a thoughtful surprise each month.