Ive them a gift you can afford

Dear Heloise: How much should I spend on a wedding gift? My sister is getting married, and I’m not sure how much to give to the bride and groom. They really prefer cash because they’ve lived together over two years.

I’m in my third year of college, and as a student living on a very strict budget, I can’t give much. My sister knows this, but she still expects a gift of some kind. My mother said I should at least give the cost of my dinner at the wedding, but the cost is $150 per person. I don’t have an extra $150! What should I do? — Kevin C., Mineola, New York

Kevin, no, you don’t need to give the cost of the dinner. It should be based on what you can afford. I was once a college student, and I know funds are limited. Tuition, books and lab fees are increasing all the time.

So, if funds do not permit you to make a monetary gift, ask if there is something you can do to help with the wedding. After all, your time and labor are valuable. Can you run errands for your sister, pick up people from the airport, help with decorations, or make centerpieces?

After you graduate and have a job, perhaps you can take them out to dinner to celebrate their wedding anniversary. — Heloise

She’ll only wear it once

Dear Heloise: My oldest daughter is getting married, and we’ve just started looking for bridal gowns. The prices have increased significantly since I was married nearly 30 years ago! Why are these dresses so expensive? — Janette P., Amherst, Ohio

Janette, I agree. Wedding dresses are expensive. Many have hand beading, expensive lace and rich materials, and they are usually custom fitted. All of this adds to the price.

However, there are shops that resell gowns that were only worn once. These are less expensive, and of course, many bridal shops offer sales to make room for newer merchandise. If you let the salesperson know what your limit is, they can usually find something pretty. — Heloise