Warmer weather is kicking in, which means wedding and party season is fast approaching, and with it, expensive shelling out on gifts.
While it's always exciting to get invited to a friend's wedding, it can also send your spending into overdrive, as you shell out for a pricey present for the engagement party - the bridal shower, and of course, the main event - not to mention a new outfit for the occasion.
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It means it's definitely worth it to cut costs where you can - so do you really have to bring a gift to the engagement party?
Good news! According to the wedding experts at Brides.com, it's not mandatory.
"Engagement gifts are not required, no matter how fancy the celebration," they said.
"Nowadays, it's common for guests to bring a gift to an engagement party, but it's usually something small and sentimental. Don't feel pressured to give an elaborate or expensive gift."
There's also some flexibility on the gifting - you might want to send flowers or champagne to your friends as soon they reveal they're tying the knot (or you see that inevitable Instagram post).
According to writers at wedding website The Knot, the formality of the occasion also plays a part.
"If your friend just got engaged and texted you about impromptu celebratory drinks at a local bar the next weekend, you probably don't need to come bearing gifts," they said.
"A gesture of congratulations, like a bottle of champagne or even a nice card, wouldn't be out of place, but don't worry about schlepping a toaster oven to drinks.
"If an engagement party is giving off more formal vibes, either consider asking around to see what other guests are thinking of doing, or go ahead and bite the bullet and bring something with you."
But consider your budget as well - with Auckland rent prices being what they are, we can't be shelling out slow cookers and cutlery sets five times a year.
If it seems like everyone else is giving a gift, why not go in with some friends and get the newly engaged pair a voucher for a couple's massage, or for a food subscription box as they get closer to the big day (aka Stressville).
Newshub.
