Wedding Invitation Wording For Cash Gifts: Tips And Examples

Asking for cash gifts for your wedding can be tricky, but there are ways to do it politely. While it's not appropriate to ask for money on your wedding invitations, there are other ways to let your guests know about your preference. Here are some suggestions:

- Include an insert card with your wedding invitation that directs guests to your wedding website, where you can explain your preference for cash gifts.

- Use a cash or honeymoon registry website, such as Honeyfund or Zola, where guests can contribute financially to your honeymoon or other long-term goals.

- Ask your family members and close friends to spread the word about your preference for cash gifts.

- Be specific about how you'll use the cash. For example, mention on your wedding website that you're saving for a down payment on a house or planning a honeymoon.

- Set up a card box at the reception for guests who prefer to bring cash or cheques to the wedding.

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 not required from guests, and 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 registry, which will help them see that you've registered for cash gifts.

• Word your wedding website thoughtfully: Explain why you've registered for cash and how you'll use the funds. For example, you could say, "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]."
• Let family and friends spread the word: Inform your close circle about your preference for cash gifts and why. They can then tactfully spread the word to other guests when asked for gift suggestions.
• Be specific about how you'll use the cash: Cash can feel impersonal, so letting guests know where the money will go helps them feel more connected to you and your plans. Share your goals on your wedding website, such as saving for a down payment on a home or funding your honeymoon.
• Use a cash or honeymoon registry website: Guests can contribute monetary gifts through popular sites like Honeyfund and Zola. These sites allow guests to designate their gifts for specific purposes, such as long-term projects, savings, or your dream honeymoon.
• Set out a box for cards at the reception: Not all guests will feel comfortable with digital cash gifts. Designate a card box at the reception for guests to leave congratulatory cards with checks or cash inside.

Use a cash or honeymoon registry website

When it comes to your wedding, it's important to communicate your wishes clearly and tastefully when asking for cash gifts. One of the most popular and effective ways to do this is by using a cash or honeymoon registry website. This option provides a convenient and modern approach to handling monetary gifts, and it can be done in a few simple steps.

Firstly, create an account with a reputable cash registry platform. These websites are designed specifically for wedding gift registries and provide an elegant solution for couples who prefer monetary gifts. You'll be able to customize your registry, adding personal touches and even specifying what the funds will be used for, whether it's your dream honeymoon or a down payment on a home. These sites also offer an easy way for guests to contribute, with secure online payment options and the ability to leave personalized messages for the happy couple.

Once your registry is set up, you can include the details on your wedding website or even provide the link directly on your invitation. It's important to word this request delicately; a simple note indicating that you are registered at a specific cash registry site will suffice. For example, you could say, "We are registered at Honeyfund for our dream honeymoon." This direct yet subtle approach respects your guests' intelligence and allows them to take the initiative to visit the site and contribute if they so wish.

To make it even easier for your guests, some registry sites provide options for creating a simple, personalized web page with your wedding details, which can include a brief message about your preference for monetary gifts. This page can then be shared with your guests via email or social media, providing them with all the necessary information in one place. Always remember to express your gratitude, whether through a simple "thank you" note on the registry site or by sending personalized thank-you cards after the wedding. Your guests will appreciate knowing that their contribution is valued and cherished.

Provide a link to your wedding website

Your wedding website is a powerful tool for guests. It's a place where they can find all the important details about your big day, from logistics to dress code information. It's also a great place to explain your preference for cash gifts and how you plan to use the money.

Include a "registry" section

Add a dedicated section for your registry, where you can explain your preference for monetary gifts and provide details about how the money will be used. This helps guests understand your wishes and feel more connected to your plans.

Share your story

If you're in the middle of a big project, like renovating your home or planning a dream honeymoon, share the story behind it on your website. Adding a personal touch will make your guests feel more invested in your plans and more inclined to contribute.

Be specific about your plans for the cash

It's a good idea to let guests know exactly how you plan to use their monetary gifts. For example, you could say something like: "Your presence at our wedding is a gift in itself. However, if you wish to give us something, we would greatly appreciate a contribution towards our dream honeymoon/new home/renovation project."

Use a cash or honeymoon registry website

While some guests may prefer to bring cash or a cheque to the wedding reception, others might appreciate the convenience of an online registry. Websites like Honeyfund and Zola offer popular cash registry options, where guests can contribute to your long-term projects, savings goals, or honeymoon plans.

Create a traditional registry, too

In addition to your cash registry, it's a good idea to create a small traditional registry with a few physical gift options. This caters to guests who prefer giving tangible presents, and it can also be a way to suggest specific items you truly want or need.

Provide regular updates

Keep your wedding website up-to-date, especially if your plans or goals change. For example, if you initially asked for contributions towards your honeymoon and then achieved your funding goal, you might want to update your website to reflect any new savings goals or projects.

Thank your guests

Lastly, don't forget to express your gratitude to your guests for their generosity. Whether they gave a monetary gift, a physical present, or simply their presence at your wedding, be sure to send them a heartfelt thank-you note within a few months of your big day.

Tell close friends and family members

It's perfectly fine to ask for monetary gifts for your wedding—it's all about how you do it. Here are some tips for how to ask close friends and family members for cash gifts:

Be Direct with Close Friends and Family

It's okay to be more direct with your close friends and family members about your preference for cash gifts. Tell them you'd prefer cash and explain why. For example, you might be saving for a new home, planning a honeymoon, or renovating your house. They can then pass this information on to other guests more subtly if they are asked for gift suggestions.

Share Your Story

If you feel awkward about asking for money, weave in some of your personal story. Explain that you already have all the household items you need, or that you're saving for a big project like your first home or a renovation. This helps guests picture what they're contributing towards and makes their gift feel more meaningful.

Set Up a Cash or Honeymoon Registry

Registering with a cash or honeymoon registry is a clear signal that you'd prefer cash gifts. It's also an easy option for guests as they can simply give money through the platform.

Provide a Link to Your Wedding Website

Create a wedding website and add a section that talks about your preferences for gifts. You can include a simple message like, "We'd be so happy if you considered giving money instead of gifts. We're saving for [project/trip/etc.] and would be so grateful for any contributions."

Have a Card Box at the Reception

Some guests will want to bring a card with cash or a cheque to the wedding. Set up a designated card box at the reception so they have somewhere safe and secure to leave their gift.

Don't Ask for Money on Your Wedding Invitations

While it's okay to ask close friends and family members for cash gifts, avoid asking for money on your wedding invitations. This can come across as greedy or presumptuous. Instead, include your wedding website on your invitations and share your gift preferences there.

Talk about how you plan to use the money

It is important to communicate how you plan to use the money you receive as wedding gifts. This helps your guests feel more connected to your plans and can encourage them to contribute. Here are some ideas for talking about how you plan to use monetary gifts:

Renovating or Buying a Home

"As we’re getting married, we thought it would be great to move into a brand new home—we really can't wait! As wedding gifts are bulky and we’re a little short on space, money would be the ideal gift to help us buy our place."

Honeymoon

"We are over the moon to be travelling to [location] for our honeymoon. If you’d like to help make the experience even more amazing, we’ve listed some details on our cash registry at [link]."

"We’d be over the moon if you’d consider giving money instead of gifts, which we will put towards our honeymoon."

Saving for the Future

"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 savings fund at [details here]."

"We are saving for our first home, so any contributions are hugely appreciated."

Charity

"We already feel well-equipped with traditional wedding gifts, so it's A-okay to think outside of the box. Cash funds are a great vehicle for funding your favourite charity."

Everyday Expenses

"There’s nothing better than dancing the night away with you. Don’t feel any pressure to bring a gift. If you’d like to contribute, we have a cash registry available at [link]."

Remember, it's best to avoid asking for money directly on your wedding invitations. Instead, include your wedding website on an insert card with your stationery suite and detail your registry preferences there. You can also let your close friends and family know about your preference for cash gifts, so they can spread the word.

Frequently asked questions