Hi, My name is XXXXX XXXXX X am your Etiquette Expert.

Many thanks for your question.

Your note mentions two showers and the wedding itself. For the showers this is a case of where it is better to be safe than sorry. Unless the organizer specifically calls everyone and lets the know that one gift is acceptable for the two showers I would plan to play it safe. What you could do is to speak to others who are also invited and see if they are planning to bring a gift per shower or one gift. This is a case where you likely want to follow the pack - but ideally the host should set the expectations on this.

Usually, wedding gifts for the couple are bought from the couple's registry. But the shower gift(s) can be for either the couple or for the bride alone, and don't need to come from the registry. This web site has great bridal shower gifts: http://www.gifts.com

A gift is given from the heart, not because one is obligated. So if this is a close friend or a relative, and you are going to the wedding and reception, then you probably want to give a wedding gift, too. A courteous couple will list both expensive and inexpensive gifts in their registry to accommodate everyone. And a thoughtful guest will not bring the wedding gift to the wedding, but will send it to the couple a week or so before. They have enough to do during the few days before the wedding besides receiving and opening gifts!

Good luck with this. If you have any related follow up questions please let me know and I will be happy to answer them for you.