My husband and I certainly try to give enough to “cover the expenses,” and here on Long Island, believe me, “the expenses” are tremendous. (Even if you try to do in on the cheap.)
If the bride has registered for a china pattern or a silver pattern, we usually give those. If we give cash, though, we typically give at least $250 if it’s just the two of us going. If our two kids went as well, that number bumped up to at least $350. The kids are grown now, and usually receive their own invitations to such events. They also give their own gifts.
Regards,
Ouch, don’t expect me at any NY weddings.