Creating A Money Tree For A Wedding Shower

A wedding money tree is a centerpiece where guests can pin or clip cash onto a tree as a gift to the happy couple. They can be made from wire or real wood, and decorated with pins, paperclips, clothespins, or ribbons. Couples may also choose to provide small envelopes so guests can give gifts more discreetly. A money tree is a great way to allow guests to leave money for the couple if they choose to do so, especially if the couple already has everything they need.

Choosing a tree type: pine, palm, ficus, grapevine, or miniature arbor

When it comes to choosing a tree type for your wedding shower money tree, there are a few popular options to consider, each offering a unique look and feel. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Pine Tree: A pine tree money tree is a great option for winter weddings. Its lush, green foliage and classic shape make it an elegant choice. You can decorate it with white lights and ornaments to match your wedding colours or theme.
• Palm Tree: If you're having a beach wedding, a palm tree money tree will fit right in. Go for a tropical feel with this option, and consider adding some fun, beach-themed decorations to the tree.
• Ficus Tree: Ficus trees have a sophisticated and elegant look, with their dense foliage and graceful branches. They can work well with a variety of wedding themes and are especially suitable for indoor weddings.
• Grapevine Tree: For a rustic or outdoor wedding, a grapevine tree can be a beautiful choice. Its twisting branches and natural texture will give your money tree a unique, organic feel.
• Miniature Arbor: If you're looking for something a little different, a miniature arbor can be a charming option. These small, delicate trees can be decorated with lights and ornaments to suit your wedding theme and will add a whimsical touch to your celebration.

Remember, when choosing your tree type, consider the overall theme and style of your wedding, as well as the practicalities of the venue. You want your money tree to enhance your decor, not detract from it, so choose something that will fit seamlessly into your special day.

Decorations: ribbons, fairy lights, and small ornaments

Decorating your wedding money tree with ribbons, fairy lights, and small ornaments will make it a beautiful and subtle option for guests to pin their cash gifts. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Ribbons:

• Choose ribbons that complement your wedding colour palette or theme.
• You can tie ribbons in bows around the branches of the tree or let them drape gracefully for a romantic touch.
• Consider using ribbons with wired edges, as they are easier to shape and manipulate.
• Mix and match different widths and textures of ribbons to add visual interest.

Fairy Lights:

• Small fairy lights can be wrapped around the branches of the tree to add a whimsical and elegant touch to your money tree.
• Opt for warm white or coloured fairy lights, depending on your wedding theme and colour scheme.
• Battery-powered fairy lights are a safe and convenient option, ensuring there are no messy cords.

Small Ornaments:

• Choose ornaments that reflect your style and wedding theme. For example, you could use miniature hearts, flowers, or even small decorative items that represent your hobbies or interests.
• Hang the ornaments from the branches using ribbons or clear fishing line to give the illusion that they are floating.
• Consider personalising the ornaments with your names or wedding date to make them even more special.

Remember to keep the overall look elegant and subtle, ensuring the decorations complement rather than overwhelm the money tree. Happy crafting!

Clips: pins, paperclips, clothespins, or ribbons

Clips are an essential component of a wedding money tree, allowing guests to attach their monetary gifts to the tree. Here are some ideas and instructions for creating a charming and elegant money tree using clips:

Types of Clips

You can use various types of clips to decorate your money tree and provide a means for guests to attach their cash gifts. Here are some options:

• Pins
• Paper clips
• Clothespins
• Ribbons

Instructions for Using Clips

Follow these steps to incorporate clips into your wedding money tree:

• Prepare the clips: Ensure you have enough clips for guests to attach their gifts. You can place the clips on the tree or set them nearby for guests to use.
• Decorate the tree with clips: Use ribbons or other decorative accents to add visual appeal to your money tree. You can tie or glue the ribbons to the branches, creating a festive look.
• Instruct guests on clip usage: It is essential to provide a lighthearted poem, verse, or sign near the tree explaining its purpose. Let guests know that cash gifts are optional and that they can use the clips to attach their contributions to the tree.
• Add envelopes and notepads: Consider providing small envelopes near the tree to give guests the option of discreet cash gifts. Notepads and pens will also allow guests to attach wedding wishes or messages to the tree.
• Create a subtle display: Place the money tree near other gifts, but avoid making it the centre of attention. This ensures that guests understand monetary gifts are optional.

By following these instructions and using clips creatively, you can make a tasteful and elegant money tree that adds a unique touch to your wedding shower.

Envelopes: small envelopes for discreet cash gifts

Small envelopes are a great way to allow guests to give cash gifts discreetly at a wedding shower. Here are some tips and ideas for using envelopes for cash gifts at your wedding shower money tree:

Choosing the Right Envelopes

Select envelopes that are small enough to fit on or near your money tree without overwhelming it. Standard small envelope sizes range from 3 x 7 inches to 3.5 x 6.5 inches. Choose envelopes made from lightweight paper, such as kraft paper, which will be easy for your guests to write on. You can also opt for more decorative envelopes with laser-cut designs or gold foil plating.

Envelope Design and Colour

When it comes to the design and colour of your envelopes, there are many options to choose from. You can go for a simple and elegant look with white or cream-coloured envelopes, or add a touch of glamour with gold or silver envelopes. If you want to incorporate your wedding colours, choose envelopes in those shades or select envelopes with a colourful lining. For a playful touch, consider envelopes with a festive or themed design, such as a wedding cake or a pair of love birds.

Providing Instructions for Guests

To ensure your guests know how to use the envelopes, provide clear and concise instructions. You can include a short note or sign near the envelopes that says something like, "Please place your cash gift in an envelope and attach it to the tree." You may also want to provide pens or markers so guests can write their names or a special message on the envelopes.

Amount to Put in Each Envelope

It is generally considered polite to allow guests to give whatever amount they are comfortable with. However, if you are concerned about the envelopes being too small for larger bills, you can include a note suggesting a dollar amount that will fit comfortably in the envelopes. For example, you could say, "Please use the envelopes provided for gifts of $50 or less."

Where to Place the Envelopes

Place the envelopes in a visible location near the money tree, such as on a nearby table or attached to the tree itself. You can simply place a stack of envelopes on the table or put them in a decorative container, such as a basket or box. If you want to encourage guests to use the envelopes, you can even attach a small envelope to each branch of the tree with a ribbon or string.

Location: place the tree near other gifts, but not front and centre

When it comes to the placement of your wedding money tree, it's important to strike a balance. You'll want to put it near the other gifts so that guests can easily find it if they wish to contribute. However, avoid placing it front and centre as this may give the impression that a monetary gift is expected from everyone.

Instead, opt for a more subtle approach by situating the money tree alongside other gifts, perhaps in a corner or to the side of the main display. This way, guests can discover it organically as they peruse the other presents. It also allows those who prefer a more discreet approach to gifting to do so without feeling too exposed.

If you're concerned about guests not noticing the money tree, consider adding a lighthearted poem or verse nearby. This can serve as a subtle hint and an explanation for those unfamiliar with the concept. Just be sure to emphasise that cash gifts are entirely optional.

Remember, the key is to make the money tree feel like a natural part of the gift display, rather than the main attraction. This will help ensure your guests feel comfortable and respected, regardless of their gifting preferences.

Frequently asked questions