How Much Should You Spend on Groomsmen Gifts? A Guide

 

Let’s get real for a second. Weddings are expensive. Between the venue, the food, the suit, and the photographer who has to get your good side, your wallet’s probably already sweating. And just when you think you’ve crossed everything off your list—bam. Groomsmen gifts.

And here comes the question that no one really teaches you how to answer: How much should you spend on groomsmen gifts?

If you’ve Googled this in a mild panic between tux fittings and cake tastings, you’re not alone. The good news? There’s a sweet spot between meaningful and budget-friendly. You don’t have to drop a hundred bucks per guy to show your crew you appreciate them—especially when the best budget gifts for wedding party members often come down to thoughtfulness, not price tags.

So let’s break it down—what’s expected, what’s smart, and what’s going to make your guys feel genuinely appreciated (without leaving you financially wrecked before the honeymoon).

Wait, Do You Have to Get Groomsmen Gifts?

Short answer: yes.

Longer answer: It’s not legally required, but skipping it is kind of like forgetting to thank someone who helped you move. It’s tradition, sure—but it’s also just good gift etiquette.

Your groomsmen are usually your best friends, brothers, cousins, or that one college roommate who saw you through some questionable haircut choices. They’ve stood by you, planned the bachelor party, maybe even helped wrangle family members on the big day. A little thank-you is the least you can do.

And no, it doesn’t have to be over the top. Even affordable groomsmen gifts can go a long way if you choose right.

The Golden Rule: The Groomsmen Gift Budget Sweet Spot

Alright, let’s talk numbers.

The general rule of thumb? Spend $25 to $100 per groomsman. That’s the range most people land in.

But here’s the thing: your groomsmen gift budget should reflect three things:

1. Your overall wedding budget: If you’re ballin’ on a backyard BBQ wedding, $30 per gift is totally fair. If you’re going full black-tie gala, maybe aim closer to $75.
2. What your groomsmen spent on you: Did they shell out for a destination bachelor trip, suits, or flights? Consider that when deciding how much to give back.
3. How many guys you have: Got 3 groomsmen? Splurging a little may be doable. Got 10? Time to get creative.

And remember: more expensive doesn’t always equal more meaningful. A custom flask they’ll never use? Meh. A handwritten note paired with a useful gift? Priceless.

Real Talk: Don’t Try to “Win” Groomsmen Gifts

There’s always that one couple who drops hundreds on engraved watches and luxury grooming kits like it’s a high-end product launch. If that’s your vibe and you’ve got the budget, cool. But don’t fall into the trap of trying to impress your friends with price tags.

This isn’t a competition. It’s a thank-you. And the best budget gifts for wedding party members are often the ones with personality, humor, or utility.

Think:

• Something they’ll actually use
• Something that fits your vibe as a group
• Something they’ll remember you by (in a good way)

Try to match the gift to the friendship, not a trending Instagram post.

Affordable Groomsmen Gifts That Don’t Feel Cheap

You want to stay within budget. But you also want your guys to feel like they matter. Here are a few tried-and-true winners that check both boxes:

1. Personalized Pocket Knives or Multi-Tools

Classic, practical, and very “I’ve got your back, bro.”

2. Custom Whiskey Glasses or Beer Mugs

Pair with a mini bottle of their favorite spirit and you’re golden.

3. Engraved Leather Dopp Kits

Looks luxe, feels practical. Plus, it encourages them to travel like grown-ups.

4. Socks, Ties, or Cufflinks (They’ll Actually Wear Again)

Bonus points if they match the wedding colors.

5. Funny T-Shirts or Hats

Inside jokes = perfect personal touches.

6. Handwritten Notes or Cards

Add one to any gift. Seriously. It’s the most memorable part.

If you’re feeling extra organized, create a little groomsmen gift bag with 2–3 small items that feel curated just for them.

Read More: Selecting the Perfect Luxury Wedding Venue in the USA

When to Give the Gifts (Yes, Timing Matters)

Typically, you’ll want to hand out the gifts at one of these key moments:

• At the rehearsal dinner: Great timing for a low-key, heartfelt moment.
• The morning of the wedding: Perfect if you’re all getting ready together—plus it makes for great photo ops.
• At the bachelor party: If your gifts are more on the fun or functional side (like sunglasses or flasks), this works too.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a moment. Don’t just toss it at them on the way to the ceremony.

Should Everyone Get the Same Thing?

Not necessarily.

Uniform gifts are easy (and definitely popular), but if you’ve got the time and energy, tailoring gifts to each guy’s interests can be a total win.

Example:

• Your outdoorsy friend? A custom multitool.
• Your craft beer nerd? A personalized pint glass.
• Your gamer buddy? A funny controller skin or retro merch.

Even if you go with the same type of gift (like matching bags), you can personalize each with initials or inside jokes to make it feel one-of-a-kind.

What About the Best Man?

If your best man went above and beyond (read: organized a wild bachelor weekend and wrote a speech that made you cry), it’s common to give him a little extra.

Think of it as a bonus thank-you.

Add $20–$50 more to his groomsmen gift budget and maybe throw in something unique—like a personalized watch, nicer liquor, or tickets to something he loves.

It doesn’t have to be flashy. Just intentional.

Groomsmen Gift Don’ts (Avoid These, Please)

Let’s do a quick hit list of what not to do:

• Don’t go overboard trying to look rich – They know your wedding budget’s tight. Be real.
• Don’t give random filler items – If it doesn’t have a purpose or meaning, skip it.
• Don’t forget the packaging – Presentation matters. A $20 gift looks like $50 in a nice box or bag.
• Don’t procrastinate – Last-minute Amazon scrambles? Not the move.

Be thoughtful. That’s the only non-negotiable.

But What If You’re on a Really Tight Budget?

First, take a breath. It’s okay.

Affordable groomsmen gifts can still be incredibly meaningful. If money is tight, go for one great gift under $25 and add a handwritten note. Or skip the product and gift an experience instead—a planned post-wedding hangout, a framed group photo, or a playlist that brings back all the memories.

If your guys know you and love you, they’ll appreciate the effort more than the cost.

This is about gratitude, not grandeur.

Here’s the Gift-Giving Recap:

• Spend what you can afford. Most people land between $25–$100 per groomsman.
• Think practical + personal. It’s not about the price—it’s about meaning and use.
• Don’t skip it. Gifts are part of good gift etiquette and go a long way.
• Personalize where you can. Names, inside jokes, favorite hobbies—it all matters.
• Presentation counts. Even affordable groomsmen gifts feel luxe when they’re well-wrapped.

Read More: Beach Honeymoon: Newlywed Travel Packages for Ocean Lovers

Conclusion: Key Takeaway

You don’t need to break the bank to say “thank you” like you mean it. A smart groomsmen gift budget, a little thought, and some personalized touches go a long way. Whether you’re splurging or saving, the goal is simple: show up for the guys who showed up for you. Because when it comes to gift etiquette, it’s not about what you spend—it’s about how well you mean it.

This content was created by AI