Etiquette Guide: Adding Monetary Gifts To Wedding Invites

It is becoming increasingly common for couples to ask for monetary gifts at weddings, but it can be tricky to know how to ask for money without causing offence. While it is generally considered rude to ask for money on a wedding invitation, there are other ways to let guests know that you would prefer cash. One option is to include a small section on your wedding details card or wedding website, explaining that you would appreciate a monetary contribution towards a specific goal, such as a honeymoon or house deposit. Another option is to set up a cash registry or honeymoon fund, which allows guests to contribute directly to your chosen cause. Word-of-mouth can also be an effective way to spread the message, by telling close friends and family members who can then pass on the information to other guests.

Monetary gifts are common in other cultures

While it is generally considered rude to ask for monetary gifts for your wedding, there are ways to politely signal your preference for cash over physical gifts. This is because, in many cultures, monetary gifts are customary and carry symbolic meaning.

For instance, in Korea, guests usually present envelopes containing money to the parents of the couple, who then pass on the money to the newlyweds. Similarly, at Chinese weddings, guests give the bride money in red envelopes to symbolise good luck. There is also a traditional Italian custom called The Grand March, where the wedding reception ends with a receiving line in which the couple gives each guest a sweet in exchange for an envelope of money. During the traditional Polish Dollar Dance, guests pin money to the bride's veil or dress as they dance with her. These customs indicate that monetary gifts are common in several cultures and are not considered offensive.

However, it is important to note that the way you ask for monetary gifts can significantly impact how your guests perceive your request. While it is acceptable to have a cash fund on your wedding registry, it is generally frowned upon to mention this on your formal wedding invitations. Instead, you can include a link to your wedding website on the invitation, where you can explain why you have registered for cash and how you intend to use the funds. This approach ensures that your guests understand your preferences without feeling pressured or obligated to contribute financially.

Don't ask for money on your wedding invitations

While it is acceptable to ask for money as a wedding gift, it is not okay to do so on your formal wedding invitations. Wedding gifts are technically not required from guests, so putting your gift information directly on your wedding invites can come across as greedy.

Instead, put information about your gift preferences on your wedding website and add a link to your wedding website on the invite or include an insert card with your wedding website address. This will indirectly guide them to your preferences, which can include a cash fund.

Your wedding website is a powerful tool for guests. It will include all of the important day-of details your guests need to know, giving them an easy point of reference. In addition to sharing things like transportation logistics and dress code details, you can also use your website to explain why you've registered for cash and how you'll use the funds.

Create a cash fund wedding registry

A cash wedding registry is a polite way to ask for money as a wedding gift. It is a simple way to ask for just one gift: cash. This type of registry is ideal for couples who want to steer guests towards giving money instead of gifts. It is also perfect for couples who want their family and friends to contribute to other future goals or adventures.

• Choose a cash registry website: There are several websites that offer cash wedding registry services, such as Honeyfund, Hitchd, MyRegistry, and Joy. These websites provide an easy and tasteful way to collect cash gifts from your guests.
• Set up your account: Sign up with the chosen website and create an account. Add an introduction and a photo of you and your partner. Some websites may provide templates to help you with the introduction.
• Design your cash fund: Decide on the specific cause or purpose for the cash fund. This could be for your honeymoon, a down payment on a house, furniture, a baby, or even a charity fund. Be clear and honest about how you'll use the cash.
• Link a payment method: Most cash registry websites integrate with popular payment methods such as PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App. You will need to connect your account to one of these payment methods to receive the funds.
• Launch your cash fund: Once you have set up your account and payment method, you can launch your cash fund and start sharing the website or link with your friends and family.

It is important to remember that some cash registry websites may charge a small fee for their services, so be sure to review their terms and conditions before signing up. Additionally, consider including a note with your invitations to explain what the cash gifts will be used for and to express your gratitude for their contributions.

Word your wedding website thoughtfully

Your wedding website is a powerful tool for guests. It includes all the important details your guests need to know, giving them an easy point of reference to answer their common questions. In addition to sharing things like transportation logistics and dress code details, you can also use your website to expand upon your cash gift requests.

Use your site to explain why you've registered for cash and how you'll use the funds. Attaching a cash gift request to a goal helps gift-givers feel like their money will carry more meaning. For example, you could say: "We are extremely lucky to have love, laughter and a house full of furniture, so if you'd like to help us celebrate with a gift, we've set up a honeymoon fund at [details here]."

• "Your presence at our wedding is enough of a gift, but should you wish to buy us something, we'd greatly appreciate a contribution towards our [insert cash fund]."
• "The most important thing to us is that you're able to come and celebrate our wedding. However, if you wish to give a gift, we would graciously accept a contribution towards our [insert cash fund]."
• "Thank you for being a part of our special day. If you feel inclined to give us a wedding gift, a contribution towards our [insert cash fund] would greatly help us start our newlywed life off right."

Designate a place for cards at your reception

It's important to remember that gifts are never required of wedding guests, and you should be grateful for whatever you are gifted. However, if you're looking to politely ask for money as a wedding gift, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, it is considered rude to ask for money on your wedding invitations. Instead, put information about your registry on your wedding website and include a link to your wedding website on the invite or an insert card with your wedding website address. You can also use your website to explain why you've registered for cash and how you'll use the funds. For example, you could write:

> "Your presence at our wedding is enough of a gift, but should you wish to buy us something, we'd greatly appreciate a contribution towards our [insert cash fund]."

Another way to ask for monetary gifts is to set up a wedding card box at the reception, often called a wishing well. This is a great way to keep track of all the monetary donations received on your wedding day so nothing is misplaced, and it will make writing thank-you notes easier.

When it comes to place cards, these are a great way to guide guests to their intended seats and ensure tablemates can remember each other's names. They usually go on your reception tables and can be made from paper (cardstock), acrylic, chalkboard, glass or other materials. They are often displayed with place card holders, but tent cards stand on their own.

Frequently asked questions