This is a contributed article by Sharon Schweitzer.

Wedding guests play a pivotal role in orchestrating a fun and flowing wedding. From warm smiles to setting the tone of the environment, wedding guests need to know what is expected of them for the event.

Consider the following five wedding culture insights to make your wedding gift-giving top-notch, yet reasonable:

A gift is always necessary.

It doesn’t matter what your relationship to the individual, a wedding gift is expected. Due to the nature of tradition, you must give a gift whether you attend the wedding or not. Couples embark on the new adventure of marriage, and sending a gift is a sign of well-wishes in the next steps. Work within your means, and strive to put your best guest foot forward with a thoughtful and practical gift for the newlyweds.

Do your homework for destination weddings.

Destination wedding pose many questions for attendees. Many consider where to send the gift and how much to spend considering the travel variable. Ship the gift to the couple’s home, not the location of the destination nuptials. No one wants to lug gifts on a plane. Couples understand that planning, saving, and preparation go into destination weddings. With the greater travel expense included, they are more understanding with presents. Rather than settle for a less special present, consider sending your gift significantly before or after the wedding ceremony.

Don’t break the bank.

Express your genuine care for the husband-and-wife-to-be. Be creative, personal, and use the registry to purchase gifts the happy couple truly wants and will use throughout their married life. This doesn’t mean emptying your savings account. Add sentimental touches like handwritten notes. Plan ahead to save, and express your affection for the couple with a beautiful gift.

Don’t ignore the registry.

If a registry is present, a selection from there is preferred to cash or gift cards. If you want to select your own gift, pair it with something from the registry for a combination gift they will undoubtedly adore.

Do recognize the relationship.

Wedding gifts can vary depending on your relationship with the soon-to-be-spouses. On average, research reveals how much is spent on gifts. These relationships on average, spend the following on wedding gifts:

• Family Member: $127
• Supervisor: $115
• Colleague: $63
• Friend: $99

Selecting a wedding gift is a personal choice. These numbers are provided as a guide.

All weddings come with a price tag; not only for the spouses-to-be in organizing it, but also the wedding guests. If it’s a local wedding, perhaps your gift can be more elaborate. If it’s a destination wedding, travel expenses are considered. However, that shouldn’t stop you in purchasing a special and meaningful gift for the couple. Find a gift using the registry as a guide to contribute to the beautiful event.

About the author: Sharon Schweitzer is an international etiquette expert, author, and the founder of Access to Culture.  www.protocolww.com