Writing A Wedding Check: A Gift-Giving Guide

Writing a cheque as a wedding gift can be a tricky business. It's important to get the names right, and to use the conjunction or instead of and between the names of the couple. This is because using and means that both people will need to endorse the cheque, whereas using or means that either person can deposit it. It's also a good idea to use the couple's pre-marriage names, as it can take a while for name changes to go through.

Use or instead of and between the couple's names

When writing a cheque as a wedding gift, it's important to use the word "or" instead of "and" between the couple's names. This is because using "or" allows either person to deposit the cheque into their individual bank account, whereas "and" would require both of them to be present at the bank or for the account to be in both their names.

For example, if the couple's names are Kim Jones and Jackie Garcia, the cheque should be written as "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia". This way, either Kim or Jackie can endorse and deposit the cheque without the other person being present.

Using "or" is especially helpful if the couple does not have a joint bank account or if one of the spouses has not yet changed their last name. It gives them the flexibility to handle the gift as they see fit, without having to wait for new bank accounts or legal name changes to be processed.

Additionally, when writing a wedding cheque, it's essential to use the couple's full, pre-married names. Even if one or both spouses plan to change their names after the wedding, using their pre-married names ensures they can cash the cheque before any paperwork is filed. It also avoids any potential issues with the bank if the new name has not yet been officially updated in their system.

In summary, when making out a wedding gift cheque, use the word "or" between the couple's names and always use their full, pre-married names to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process for depositing the gift.

Use their pre-wedding names

When giving a cheque as a wedding gift, it's important to use the couple's pre-wedding names to avoid any issues with name changes. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this:

Firstly, it's essential to use the couple's full, legal pre-wedding names. Avoid using any honorifics such as "Mr." or "Mrs." and stick to their first and last names. This ensures that the cheque can be easily deposited into their respective accounts.

Secondly, when writing out the cheque, use "or" instead of "and" between the names. For example, write "John Smith or Jane Doe" instead of "John Smith and Jane Doe". This allows either person to endorse and deposit the cheque into their individual accounts without requiring a joint account. This is especially helpful if the couple hasn't set up a joint account yet.

Thirdly, if you know that one of the individuals is changing their last name after the wedding, use their maiden name on the cheque. Name changes can take time to process, and using their pre-wedding name will enable them to cash the cheque without delay.

Finally, consider writing the cheque to just one person instead of both. This way, they won't have to wait for a joint account to be set up before depositing the gift. You can choose to address the cheque to the person you feel closest to or opt for the traditional approach of addressing it to the bride.

Remember to include a meaningful note with the cheque, expressing your congratulations and best wishes. You can also add a personal touch by referencing a shared memory or experience.

Include a memo

Memos are optional, but they are encouraged. If you are addressing the cheque to only one half of the couple, you can use the memo to indicate that the cheque is a wedding gift for both parties. For example, you could write "To the newlyweds!". This reinforces the idea that the gift is for both the bride and the groom.

If you are addressing the cheque to both people, you can still use the memo to add a personal touch. For example, you could write something like "Congratulations on your special day!".

If you are giving a specific amount of money, you can explain the significance of the sum in the memo. For example, if you are giving them enough money to have dinner at your favourite restaurant, you can write this in the memo.

Gift-wrap the cheque

If you want to gift-wrap a cheque for a wedding, you can follow these steps to make sure it's done tastefully and thoughtfully.

Firstly, find a small box that will fit the cheque inside. You could also include a note card with a personal message to the happy couple. It's a good idea to include a handwritten message in the card, congratulating the couple and sharing a memory or something meaningful. This will ensure your gift doesn't come across as impersonal.

Then, wrap the box in some nice paper and finish it with a ribbon. This fancier presentation will make the gift feel more special. It's also a good way to ensure the cheque doesn't get lost, as envelopes can sometimes be misplaced or accidentally thrown away.

If you're travelling to the wedding, it's worth considering giving a cheque as it's much easier to transport than a bulky gift. It's also a good idea to mail the cheque if you're not attending the wedding, as this will avoid any confusion or the risk of it being misplaced during the reception.

Mail the cheque

Mailing a cheque as a wedding gift is a great option if you're travelling to the wedding or if you want to avoid the risk of losing your gift at the event. It's also a good idea to mail a cheque if you want to avoid the hassle of bringing a large, bulky gift with you. Here are some tips for mailing a cheque as a wedding gift:

Timing

It is considered good etiquette to mail a cheque any time before the wedding or shortly after the wedding. It is recommended to not wait more than three months post-wedding to mail the cheque. This is because the couple can use the funds for their honeymoon or other expenses soon after the wedding. Additionally, the funds in the giver's account may fluctuate, so it's best to cash the cheque within a few weeks. Banks are only legally required to honour a cheque for six months after the date of issuance, so keep that in mind as well.

Addressing the Cheque

When addressing the cheque, use the couple's full legal names. Avoid using honorifics like "Mr." or "Mrs." and do not assume that the couple will share a last name. It's best to use their pre-wedding names to avoid any issues with name changes. If you are writing the cheque to both members of the couple, use "OR" between their names instead of "AND". This will allow either person to deposit the cheque into their account without requiring multiple signatures. For example, write the cheque to "Stella Whitbey or Alex Umar" instead of "Stella Whitbey and Alex Umar".

Mailing Process

When mailing the cheque, use a permanent ink pen and make sure that the words and numbers match the written amount. Address the envelope to a permanent address where you know one or both members of the couple will receive the cheque. Consider including a greeting card with a personal message to add a thoughtful touch. You can also gift-wrap the cheque and put it in a small box to make it feel more special. Don't forget to include your name and address on the envelope and card so that the couple knows who to thank!

Frequently asked questions