Lyla Dejesus
Planning a wedding can be expensive, and with the average American wedding costing around $35,000, it's no surprise that many couples are looking for ways to save money on their honeymoon. While traditionally the groom's family would pay for the honeymoon, this is no longer expected, and modern couples often pay for their own honeymoons or receive financial contributions from a variety of sources, including family, friends, and even wedding guests. So, how can you get your honeymoon paid for? One option is to set up a honeymoon fund or registry, where guests can contribute to specific expenses such as airfare, accommodations, or activities. Another strategy is to take advantage of credit card rewards and sign-up bonuses to earn free flights and hotel stays. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can make your dream honeymoon a reality without breaking the bank.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who pays for the honeymoon | Groom's parents, bride's parents, grandparents, great grandparents, extended family members, close friends, or the couple themselves |
| Honeymoon fund | Set up a honeymoon registry or cash fund where guests can contribute to specific honeymoon expenses |
| Credit cards | Use a travel credit card to earn points and rewards that can be redeemed for free flights and hotel stays |
| Wedding registry | Instead of a traditional registry, create a cash fund to receive monetary gifts from guests |
| Planning | Discuss expectations and preferences with those contributing financially to the honeymoon, and decide on a budget |
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What You'll Learn
Ask your family to pay
Asking your family to pay for your honeymoon can be a tricky conversation to navigate. While it is a generous gift that you will be forever grateful for, it is important to remember that not everyone will be able to afford it, especially during times of economic hardship.
Traditionally, the groom's family was responsible for funding the honeymoon, but these days, there are no set rules about who pays. It is not uncommon for couples to pay for the honeymoon themselves, or for one set of parents, or both, to offer to pay for the trip. If you are considering asking your family to pay for your honeymoon, it is important to have an open and honest conversation with them about it. Discuss your expectations and preferences, and be prepared to compromise if necessary. It is also a good idea to give them plenty of notice, so they have time to save up and plan if they wish to.
If you are unsure about asking for a fully-funded honeymoon, you could suggest a honeymoon fund. This is where guests, friends, and family can contribute cash gifts to help pay for your honeymoon. It is a convenient way for your family to contribute to your trip without having to pay for the entire thing. You can set up a honeymoon fund online and include the link on your wedding website and invitations. This option also gives your family the opportunity to surprise you with a larger contribution if they wish.
If you are set on asking your family to pay for the entire honeymoon, it is important to be mindful of their financial situation and expectations. Be prepared to have an open conversation about budgets and what is achievable. It is also a good idea to discuss the type of honeymoon you are hoping for, as this will impact the overall cost. For example, are you planning on a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure? Be mindful of any activities or destinations that may be outside of your family's budget and be prepared to compromise or adjust your plans accordingly.
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Set up a honeymoon fund
Setting up a honeymoon fund is a great way to get your dream honeymoon paid for. It is a modern way to ask for money as a wedding present, without actually asking for money. Instead of homeware or other traditional wedding gifts, guests can contribute to your honeymoon experiences and activities.
There are several honeymoon fund websites to choose from, such as Honeyfund, The Knot, and Traveler's Joy. Honeyfund is free for both couples and guests, with no set-up charges or fees. The Knot also has no set-up fees and allows couples to continuously check their progress towards their goal. Traveler's Joy has no sign-up or upgrade fees and offers 100% free gift redemptions in the US.
When setting up your honeymoon fund, it is important to include a welcome and a thankful message to your guests. You can also include a link to your wedding website. You can then add all of your gifts, which should correspond to a honeymoon expense, such as dinner, tours, and other excursions. You might want to include a range of options, from cheaper items like train tickets to more expensive experiences like hotel stays. You can also give guests the option to contribute a set amount of their choosing.
It is also a good idea to connect your honeymoon fund to your wedding website and include the link on your invitations, so guests know where to find it when they are ready to buy you a gift.
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Use credit card points
Using credit card points to fund your honeymoon can be a great way to save money and enjoy a dream getaway at an incredible value. Here are some tips to help you maximize your credit card points for your honeymoon:
Choose the Right Credit Card
The first step is to select a credit card that offers rewards and bonuses that align with your honeymoon goals. Consider whether you want free flights, hotel stays, or a combination of both. Look for cards with welcome bonuses, high points multipliers for booking flights and hotels, and the ability to transfer points to travel partners. If you plan to fly with a specific airline, consider applying for their co-branded card. Also, keep an eye out for cards with benefits like free nights, concierge services, and no foreign transaction fees if you're travelling internationally.
Start Earning Points Early
Open your chosen credit card as soon as you start planning your wedding to maximize the number of points you can earn. Use this card for all your wedding-related expenses, from the dress and invitations to vendor payments. By doing so, you can quickly accumulate points and take advantage of signup bonuses.
Maximize Your Points Redemption
When it comes to redeeming your points, strategize to get the most value. Consider whether you want to splurge on first-class flights or luxury hotels for a few nights, or if you prefer a longer trip with more modest accommodations. Look for hotels that offer deals like a “fourth night free" or "fifth night free" with certain credit cards. Also, keep an eye out for other perks like rental car upgrades or dining credits.
Combine Points with Miles
In addition to credit card points, you can also take advantage of airline miles programs. Many credit cards allow you to transfer your points to major airline loyalty programs. By combining points with miles, you can increase your purchasing power and get even closer to your dream honeymoon.
Practice Responsible Credit Card Usage
It is crucial to use credit cards responsibly. Ensure that you pay off your balance in full every month to avoid accruing debt and paying high-interest rates. Only consider opening multiple credit cards if you can commit to responsible usage and have a good credit score (ideally above 700). By practicing healthy credit card habits, you can improve your credit score and take advantage of the rewards without falling into debt.
By following these tips and strategies, you can turn your credit card points into a memorable honeymoon experience without breaking the bank.
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Ask for cash wedding gifts
Asking for cash wedding gifts can be a sensitive topic, but there are ways to do it politely and respectfully. Here are some tips to help you ask for cash to fund your honeymoon:
Be Subtle and Polite
It is important to remember that wedding gifts are optional, and guests should not feel obligated or uncomfortable about what they give. Requesting cash gifts should be done tactfully and without coming across as demanding or entitled. You can use phrases like, "Your presence at our wedding is gift enough, but should you wish to give a gift as well, a cash contribution towards our honeymoon would be greatly appreciated." You can also include a poem with your request to take the sting out of asking for cash. For example, "If a gift is on your mind, a contribution would be kind. It will help us more than words can say, to celebrate our special day!"
Provide a Secure Way to Contribute
Set up a wedding website where guests can securely and easily make cash contributions. Websites like Zola, Honeyfund, and The Knot offer cash gift options and can simplify the process for both the couple and their guests. You can include the link to your wedding website on your invitations so guests know where to go when they're ready to give a gift.
Explain What the Cash Gifts Will be Used For
It is a good idea to explain to your guests what their monetary gifts will be used for. This can be done on your wedding website or in your invitation. For example, you can specify that the cash will go towards your honeymoon or be put into a fund for your future together, such as saving for a house.
Offer Traditional Gift Options
While you may prefer cash gifts, some guests may still want to give a physical present. Including a small registry with traditional gift options will make your guests who want to go the more conventional route feel appreciated and respected.
Spread the Word Casually
You can rely on your parents and bridal party members to casually spread the word about your preference for cash gifts. However, this method only works if guests reach out to your chosen representatives for gift advice.
Remember to always express your gratitude for any gifts received, whether they are physical presents or cash contributions. Sending a thank-you card within a few weeks after the wedding is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.
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Friends and family crowdfund
Asking friends and family to crowdfund your honeymoon can be a great way to make your dream trip a reality. However, it's essential to consider etiquette and the potential for discomfort when asking for money.
Firstly, it's becoming more common for couples to opt for honeymoon registries, where guests can contribute to specific experiences, such as a romantic dinner or a couple's activity, rather than giving traditional wedding gifts. This approach can make guests feel like they are gifting an experience rather than just handing over cash. Sites like Honeyfund, Zola, and Hitchd offer free honeymoon registries, allowing you to create a personalised campaign with details like your love story and photos.
When creating your registry, it's important to provide a range of options for different budgets to ensure all your guests can participate comfortably. You can include various expenses, such as airfare, accommodations, meals, and excursions. This way, your guests can choose what they want to fund specifically, making their contribution more meaningful and personal.
To promote your honeymoon registry, it's best to spread the word through your wedding website and word of mouth rather than directly asking for money. You can also connect your registry to your wedding website and include the link on your invitations, making it easily accessible for guests who want to purchase a gift.
While crowdfunding your honeymoon can be a viable option, it's essential to be mindful of potential challenges and ensure you don't place any obligation on your guests to contribute. Ultimately, the decision to crowdfund or not is a personal one, and you should choose what feels most comfortable and appropriate for you and your partner.
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Frequently asked questions
The groom's family is expected to pay for the honeymoon, while the bride's family pays for the wedding. However, this tradition is becoming less common as couples increasingly pay for their own honeymoons.
You can set up a honeymoon fund or registry, where guests can contribute to specific honeymoon-related expenses, such as activities, meals, or accommodation, instead of giving physical gifts.
Yes, you can get a travel credit card with rewards and incentives, such as points that can be redeemed for free flights or hotel stays. You can also ask family members or close friends, who may surprise you with the trip of a lifetime. Alternatively, you can opt for a cheaper option like a minimoon or travel during quieter times of the year.
