Crafting A Money Tree For A Wedding Shower

A money tree is a fun and creative way to allow guests to give cash gifts to the happy couple at a wedding shower. It is a centerpiece where guests can pin or clip cash onto a tree. You can make a money tree from wire or real wood, and use decorations such as ribbons, pins, paper clips, or clothespins to provide a means for money to be attached. Some couples choose to provide small envelopes for more discreet cash gifts, along with notepads and pens for guests to add their wedding wishes. You can also add a lighthearted poem or verse to explain the tree's purpose and make it clear that cash gifts are optional.

Decorate the clay pot and fill it with sand, marbles or floral foam

Now it's time to decorate your clay pot and fill it with sand, marbles, or floral foam to hold the branch in place. If you're feeling creative, you can paint the pot with colours or patterns that match your wedding theme. Alternatively, you could wrap the pot in fabric or ribbon for a unique look.

If you're using sand or marbles, fill the pot about halfway, then place the branch in the centre and continue filling until it's sturdy. If you're using floral foam, start by inserting the foam into the pot, then place the branch into the foam. Ensure the branch is secure and won't topple over.

Floral foam is a great option if you want to cover the base of the branch, providing a cleaner look. You can also add moss or other decorative elements to conceal the foam. This step is crucial in ensuring your money tree looks elegant and presentable.

At this point, you can also add some decorations to the tree itself. Consider wrapping fairy lights or ribbons around the branch for a whimsical touch. You could also hang small ornaments or decorations that match your wedding colours or theme. Just remember to leave some space for the money to be attached!

Secure the branch with glue and spray paint it

To secure the branch, you can use hot glue. This will ensure that the branch stays upright in the pot and doesn't wobble or fall over. It is important to fill any gaps or spaces between the branch and the pot with glue to create a strong bond. Once the glue has dried, you can further stabilise the branch by filling the pot with sand, marbles, or floral foam. This will also add weight to the base and make it less likely to tip over.

Spray paint is a great way to add a uniform colour to the branch and pot. It can be used to cover any imperfections or uneven areas, creating a smooth and polished finish. Choose a colour that coordinates with your wedding theme, such as white, gold, or silver. You can also get creative and use multiple colours to create a unique design. When spray painting, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage and safety. It is generally recommended to apply light, even coats, rather than a single heavy coat, to avoid dripping or an uneven finish. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling or adding any additional decorations.

Add ribbons and decorations

Now it's time to add some ribbons and decorations to your money tree! You can use ribbons, fairy lights, or small ornaments that match your wedding colours or theme. If you want to add a bit of sparkle, consider a string of fairy lights.

If you're feeling creative, you could make your own decorations to hang from the tree. For example, you could cut out small shapes from coloured paper or card, or even make little origami decorations. You could also hang small, personalised cards or tags from the tree, with messages for the happy couple.

If you want to stick with a more natural look, you could add some small flowers or leaves to the tree, either real or artificial. You could also wrap the trunk of the tree with ribbon or twine, securing it with glue or tape.

Don't forget to add some clips or pins to the tree, so that guests can attach their envelopes of money. These can be decorated too – try gluing on small beads, fake gems, or buttons.

Include clips, envelopes and notepads

When creating a money tree for a wedding shower, it's important to include clips, envelopes, and notepads to ensure the activity is interactive, organised, and enjoyable for guests.

Clips are essential for allowing guests to attach their monetary gifts to the tree. They can be as simple as paperclips or clothespins, or you could opt for more decorative options such as small clothespins with floral designs or colourful paperclips. These clips can be placed near the tree for guests to use.

Envelopes add a discreet element to the activity, as some guests may feel more comfortable placing their gift inside an envelope before attaching it to the tree. Small, lightweight envelopes in colours that complement the wedding theme or decorations are ideal. You could also include a variety of envelope sizes to accommodate different types of currency or gifts.

Notepads are a thoughtful addition, as they allow guests to write their wedding wishes or messages to the happy couple. Small notepads with pens placed near the tree will encourage guests to participate. The notepads could be plain or decorated with a small design or motif that ties into the wedding theme.

By providing clips, envelopes, and notepads, you are offering guests a fun and interactive way to contribute to the money tree while also providing an opportunity for them to express their well wishes in a thoughtful and personalised manner.

Explain the tree's purpose with a poem

A money tree is a thoughtful way to celebrate

And a gift that's practical, too.

It's a fun and subtle way to ask for cash

So we can buy that something new.

We don't need another toaster or blender,

And we have enough photo frames.

But there's always something else that we could buy,

And money's a gift that never changes.

We know that gifts are never owed or expected,

But if you were thinking of giving us a present,

We'd be so grateful for a contribution

To our future, and our new life together.

So please don't feel obliged, we just want to celebrate with you,

But if you do wish to give, this is what we'd like to do.

Frequently asked questions