Navigating bridal shower gift etiquette doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re the bride’s lifelong friend, a future in-law, or a coworker along for the celebration, knowing what to give—and how to give it—can make the moment even more meaningful. Bridal showers are all about honoring the bride and helping her prepare for the next chapter, so showing up with a thoughtful, well-timed gift is part of the joy. From how much to spend to when to give it, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to handle bridal shower gifting with confidence and grace.
Jump to a specific section to answer your question:
- What is a Bridal Shower?
- How Much Should You Spend on a Bridal Shower Gift?
- Is Cash Acceptable as a Bridal Shower Gift?
- What to Do If You’re Not Attending
- Can I Give Funny Bridal Shower Gifts?
- Bridal Shower Gift Ideas
What’s a Bridal Shower?
A bridal shower is a pre-wedding celebration that brings together the bride’s close friends and family to honor her upcoming marriage. Traditionally hosted by a friend or relative, the event typically includes food, games, and gift-giving. The purpose of a bridal shower is to help the bride prepare for married life with thoughtful gifts, advice, and well wishes. While bridal showers were once formal affairs limited to women, today they range from elegant luncheons to casual backyard gatherings and often include guests of all genders.
Bridal Shower Gift Etiquette
Before you start wrapping presents or clicking through a registry, it’s important to understand the basics of bridal shower gift etiquette. From how much to spend to whether you need to bring a gift if you’re in the wedding party, there are a few social norms to keep in mind. These guidelines help make the celebration feel thoughtful and respectful, both for the bride and her guests. The sections below will walk you through the dos and don’ts so you can arrive with confidence—and the perfect gift in hand.
Do You Bring a Gift to a Bridal Shower?
In short, yes. If you’re attending a bridal shower, you should always bring a gift with you to congratulate the bride. This is considered good bridal shower etiquette. Even if you’re a part of the bridal party or wedding party, a gift is still necessary. The only time you don’t have to prepare a bridal shower gift is if the bride has requested “no gifts.” Also, keep in mind that your bridal shower gift is separate from your wedding gift.
How Much Should You Spend on a Bridal Shower Gift?
The standard amount to spend on a bridal shower gift is around $50-$75. If you’re invited to a bridal shower but not particularly close with the bride, expect to spend at least $25. Regular friends, co-workers, or distant family members should consider spending up to $75 if they have the budget to spare. Close friends or family members should consider spending anywhere between $75-$150 for a bridal shower gift.
If you’re attending the bridal shower and the wedding, plan ahead. Decide on gift amounts ahead of time for both occasions to stay within your overall budget.
Is Cash Acceptable as a Bridal Shower Gift?
While cash is acceptable as a wedding gift, do your best to pick out a gift for the bridal shower. Taking the time to choose a gift for the bride-to-be shows your care and thought, which she’ll appreciate afterwards. Start with looking at her bridal or wedding registry to make the gift selection process quicker.
What to Do If You’re Not Attending
If you’re not attending the bridal shower but have been invited, be sure to send a bridal shower gift in the mail as proper etiquette. If you’re unable to send a gift, you should send a handwritten note congratulating the bride-to-be on her upcoming day. For help, check out our resource on what to write in a bridal shower card.
Can I Give Funny Bridal Shower Gifts?
Avoid gifting the bride with inappropriate items at her bridal shower since a variety of family members will probably be attending. However, if you’re familiar with the bride and her family’s sense of humor, you can use your own discretion. Keep in mind that some gifts are more suited for her bachelorette party.
Bridal Shower Gift Ideas for 2025
Once you’ve checked the registry and chosen something practical, it can be fun to add a more personal touch alongside it. A thoughtful, customized gift—like a photo keepsake or something made just for the bride—can complement what she’s already asked for without straying from etiquette. Whether you’re close to the bride or just want your gift to stand out in a meaningful way, these personalized bridal shower gift ideas offer something unique to pair with a traditional pick or give on their own if no registry is provided. From custom home decor to one-of-a-kind accessories, each option is designed to feel personal, memorable, and perfectly shower-worthy.
1. Photo Book
Capture the couple’s love story in a beautifully bound photo book filled with engagement pictures, dating memories, and messages from friends and family. Choose elegant layouts, luxe binding options, and customizable covers to make it truly one of a kind.
2. Personalized Cutting Board
A custom cutting board etched with the couple’s last name, wedding date, or a meaningful phrase adds a personalized touch to their kitchen. It’s both a display-worthy keepsake and a functional piece for everyday use or hosting dinner parties.
3. Monogrammed Wine Glasses
Toast to the future with a set of monogrammed wine glasses. Customize them with the bride and groom’s initials or a fun design that matches their wedding theme. Perfect for newlywed dinners or relaxing evenings at home.
4. Custom Candle
A personalized candle makes a beautiful keepsake the bride can display at home or in her getting-ready space. Add a favorite photo of the two of you, a meaningful quote about love, or the couple’s names to the label for a gift that feels thoughtful and intimate. It’s a simple but elegant way to commemorate this special time in her life.
5. Personalized Jewelry
Surprise the bride-to-be with a piece of personalized jewelry, such as a necklace or bracelet, engraved with her name, initials, or wedding date.
6. Photo Blanket
Cozy up their space with a plush photo blanket printed with favorite snapshots, engagement photos, or a collage of shared memories. It’s a sentimental piece that doubles as comfy decor.
7. Custom Recipe Book
Collect family recipes or crowdsource favorites from bridal shower guests and turn them into a custom recipe book. Add photos, handwritten notes, and cooking tips for a deeply personal and practical gift.
8. Personalized Luggage Tags
Help the couple travel in style with a set of custom luggage tags. Add names, contact details, or honeymoon-themed designs so they can easily spot their bags—and take a little love on the road.
9. Glass Photo Print
Celebrate a special moment—like the proposal or a favorite engagement photo—with an elegant glass photo print. Customize it with a date, location, or short message for a timeless, high-quality gift.
10. Photo Calendar
Keep their first year of marriage organized and full of memories with a personalized photo calendar. Include important dates like anniversaries and birthdays, and fill each month with favorite images to make planning fun.
11. Custom Wall Art
Design a piece of custom wall art like canvas prints or framed prints featuring a favorite engagement photo, a romantic quote, or a collage of their relationship milestones. It’s a meaningful way to help the bride turn cherished memories into stylish decor.
12. Personalized Stationery
Create a set of personalized stationery that feels uniquely hers, whether it features her new last name, elegant monogram, or a motif that reflects her wedding theme. It’s the kind of gift that’s both refined and useful for post-wedding thank yous.
Related Resources on Bridal Shower Gift Etiquette
Remember, the most important aspect of any bridal shower gift is the thought and effort you put into it. Whether you choose a heartfelt, personalized item or a carefully selected registry gift, your kindness and support will undoubtedly make the bride feel cherished and appreciated on her special journey.
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