Indian Wedding Gift Etiquette: What to Gift and When

Indian weddings are elaborate, multi-day celebrations with distinct ceremonies, each carrying its own gifting traditions and expectations. Whether you are attending a close friend's wedding or a colleague's family celebration, understanding the etiquette around wedding gifts helps you make a thoughtful and appropriate choice.

The engagement ceremony marks the beginning of wedding festivities. Gifts at this stage are typically from close family members and friends. A premium gourmet hamper is an excellent choice — it is celebratory without being too extravagant, and it can be enjoyed by the entire family as they begin wedding preparations.

For the mehndi and sangeet functions, gifts tend to be fun and festive. Gourmet treat boxes, artisanal chocolate collections, or beautifully packaged sweet assortments make wonderful gifts for these pre-wedding celebrations. These events are about joy and togetherness, and food gifts perfectly complement the mood.

The wedding day itself calls for your most significant gift. In many Indian traditions, cash in envelopes remains common, but gourmet gift hampers are increasingly popular as they offer a more personal touch. A luxury hamper with imported delicacies, premium wines or spirits (where appropriate), and artisanal treats makes a memorable wedding gift.

Trousseau gifts from the bride's family have a special significance in Indian weddings. These traditionally include household items and personal luxuries for the new couple. Premium food hampers have become a modern addition to trousseau — they represent hospitality, abundance, and the wish for a sweet beginning.

Budget guidance varies by your relationship to the couple and the scale of the wedding. For close friends and relatives, hampers in the ₹3,000-₹10,000 range are appropriate. For acquaintances and colleagues, ₹1,500-₹3,000 strikes a good balance. Remember, thoughtfulness matters more than price in wedding gifting.

For bulk wedding favours — gifts given to guests at the reception — we offer special pricing and customisation. Mini hampers, artisanal chocolate boxes, and gourmet treat bags can be customised to match your wedding colours and theme. Contact our team 4-6 weeks before the wedding for bulk favour orders.

A note on dietary considerations: Indian weddings often include guests from diverse backgrounds. When in doubt, choose vegetarian hampers, and avoid alcohol unless you are certain it will be welcome. Our gifting specialists can help you navigate these considerations with ease.