Bridal shower etiquette

I have received 2 invitations, and I have heard there is possibly a 3rd, to a close friends daughter's bridal showers. My daughter is also in the wedding and has received the same invitations. What is proper? I don't want to appear "cheap", but with the bridesmaids expenses added to the wedding gift, and now the showers I am feeling pinched. Can my daughter and I put both of our names on the gifts? One of the showers is a couples shower, to add insult to injury, so I feel obligated to buy his and her gifts. In addition to being in the wedding, is my daughter required to buy a gift? Sorry to be such a sour puss, but I am a little frustrated. Thanks for your advice.

Sept 09, 2011
Giving Gifts When Overwhelmed With Invitations
by: Kevin (Modern Manners and Etiquette)

You pose a great question and I certainly understand your frustrations. That is a whole lot of showers/weddings to attend. Many families are feeling the financial pinch as of late, so let's review some thoughts on this.

First of all, the bottom line is that you can only do what you can do financially. Regardless of the situation, you can only use what you have to make the best of these situations.

Secondly, there is nothing wrong with putting both of your names on the gift. Generally speaking, when people put their names on the gift, they will purchase something more expensive to give the appearance that you put your money together to purchase it. I know that seems counter-intuitive to what you are trying to accomplish...which leads me to the third point.

There are so many businesses that are competing for your money that it is easy to find great deals on presents for people. If you do some searching, you can find some great items at very low costs. Sure, there are always sales at local stores around you, or you can find businesses that are going out of business and they are liquidating everything.

Another option would be to shop online as much as possible. I have found so many great deals online that would make wonderful presents without breaking the bank. If you do some searching, you can give great gifts without it sucking the bank account dry.

I hope some of these thoughts are helpful so that you can make a little go a long way without feeling "cheap."