Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I think the tradition is cash gifts in multiples of $18. As the pp mentioned there will likely be a gift table. I'd do $36 or $54.
i would do more to at least cover the cost of the luncheon. DD often would also give a star of David necklace to girls
First, a gift is never expected to cover someone's meal--that's ridiculous. Many of our wedding guests did not give us a gift that covered the cost of their attendance, nor did we expect them to. A gift is just that--a gift. That said, even if you did feel inclined to cover the cost--this is a luncheon at the temple. $36 probably
does cover it.
OP, I would always give a gift at any mitzvah. Party or not. But the luncheon here IS the party. Not the DJ-hosted dance party many are, but a luncheon is still a party of sorts.