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Updated May 05, 2025Wait, Is It Bad to Show Up to a Wedding Empty-Handed?
Here's the truth about whether or not you *really* need to bring a card or a gift.
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To bring a card, or not to bring a card—that's the question. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned pro, navigating wedding guest etiquette isn't always easy. After all, being a wedding guest is often accompanied by quite a few questions. What does the intended dress code mean? How much should you spend on a gift? Can you just send cash? Do you bring a card to a wedding if you've already sent them something? The mere thought of showing up to a wedding empty-handed might sound like an etiquette nightmare, especially if you're preparing to attend your first one (or if you simply don't want to appear to have bad manners). Fear not: as your trusted source for all things wedding guest questions, we've got the answer for you.
Do You Bring a Card to a Wedding?
The truth is, if you already sent the couple a wedding gift (and a corresponding note) from their registry, there's no need for you to worry about bringing an extra something on the day of. In other words, unless you've heard otherwise from the couple or other guests, you shouldn't feel awkward about rolling up empty-handed.
Half the reason we've witnessed the dawn of the universal wedding registry is that not bringing gifts, cards, checks or cash to the actual event is more convenient for all parties. Guests don't have to lug presents there and the couple doesn't have to lug them home. After all, there's never really a great time to approach the couple and hand them something physical. Plus, with all the excitement on the wedding day, there's a chance that gifts or cards could be misplaced within minutes of receiving them. Even if the couple has a receiving line, they'll want their hands free to hug the rest of their loved ones.
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That said, if your style is to go above and beyond (and you'd feel awkward showing up with nothing), you can absolutely bring a card. While it's not required, it's always a nice gesture and will make the couple smile—and there's no harm in that. Some couples designate a table for cards and gifts, particularly for any guests determined to do things the old-fashioned way. Place your note on the table, within the designated card box, or slip it to an honor attendant who can make sure it gets into the right hands.
Do You Have to Bring a Gift to a Wedding?
The same etiquette rules apply to bringing a gift to the wedding. The beauty of modern wedding registries lies in their convenience. Shortly after getting engaged, most couples will create a wedding website and a digital registry for their guests to use. When you're ready to start shopping for a present, check their registry first—it'll be full of great gift ideas at all price ranges. Once you've found the perfect present, buy it directly from the registry and add a note sharing your well-wishes. (Pro tip: This part is crucial. Couples need to know who the gifts are from so they can properly thank you.) That's it! The item will get shipped directly to the couple's preferred address, and you don't have to worry about bringing it with you on the big day.
That said, there's no rule that dictates you need to send the gift ahead of time. (There is a rule, though, that says you should aim to send your gift within two months of the wedding date.) If you'd rather bring it with you on the big day to ensure it gets in their hands, that's certainly an option as well. While this may be the traditional way of doing this, we recommend using their registry first—the ease and convenience it provides will make your life so much easier.
