How Much Should You Give for a Wedding Gift in Italy?

Calculate la busta — the perfect cash gift for an Italian wedding.

What's your relationship to the couple?

This has the biggest impact on the recommended gift amount

Wedding Gift Culture in Italy

Italian wedding culture places enormous importance on la busta — the cash envelope. Cash gifts are overwhelmingly preferred, and there's a strong expectation that your contribution should at least cover the per-person cost of the celebration. Italian weddings are famously lavish multi-course affairs, and the gift expectations reflect this generosity.

The typical wedding gift in Italy ranges from €100 to €500 per person, with Southern Italian weddings often having higher expectations than those in the North. Family contributions can be quite substantial — parents and close relatives may give thousands of euros. The couple's family will note every gift amount, as reciprocity is deeply embedded in Italian social customs.

At Italian weddings, the busta is typically handed to the couple or their parents during the reception, often during the buste collection. It's critical to write your name clearly on the envelope. Unlike some cultures, there's no tradition of wrapping money creatively — a clean envelope with the couple's names and a heartfelt note is the elegant standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I give for a wedding gift in Italy?

Italian wedding gifts (la busta) typically range from €100 to €500 per person. Close family gives €300–€1,000+, close friends €150–€300, colleagues €80–€150, and acquaintances €50–€100. Southern Italy generally expects more.

Should I cover the cost per plate at an Italian wedding?

Yes, this is a strong expectation in Italy. At minimum, your gift should cover the estimated per-person cost of the celebration. For a lavish venue, this could be €150+ per person. Going above this amount shows generosity.

Can I bring a physical gift to an Italian wedding?

Cash in a busta (envelope) is strongly preferred in Italy. Physical gifts are uncommon and may be seen as less practical. Stick with cash unless the couple specifically has a registry, which is rare in traditional Italian weddings.

Do Northern and Southern Italian weddings have different gift expectations?

Generally yes. Southern Italian weddings tend to be larger, more lavish, and have higher gift expectations. Northern Italian celebrations may be slightly more restrained, but cash gifts are standard everywhere in Italy.