How to Ask for Money Instead of Wedding Gifts

The best way to ask for money is to be direct but warm. Start by saying how much their presence means, then explain what the contribution will be used for. Avoid long lists of dos and don'ts. Keep it simple.

A good structure is: thank them for coming, mention that you already have a home full of things, and say you are saving for something special. For example: "Your presence is the greatest gift, but if you would like to give something, a small contribution towards our honeymoon would mean the world to us."

You can also say you are saving for a deposit, renovating your home, or starting a family. The more specific you are, the more guests will understand and feel happy to give.

If you have no gift list at all, say so clearly. On your wedding website, write a short paragraph under a heading like "Gifts" or "Your Presence is Enough". For example: "We have lived together for years and have everything we need. If you wish to give a gift, we would be grateful for a contribution towards our honeymoon in [destination]."

If you are using a honeymoon fund service, you can list specific experiences, such as a meal, an excursion, or a spa day. That way guests can choose something that feels personal. You can also say: "We have set up a small fund for our future together. Any contribution, no matter the size, will be used to make memories."

Avoid the word "money" if it feels blunt. Use "contribution", "gift of experience", or "honeymoon fund" instead.

A short rhyme can soften the request. Keep it light and friendly. Here are a few examples you can adapt.

"We've lived together for a while, and have every pot and pan. So if you'd like to give a gift, a contribution's our plan."

"Your presence is the gift we prize, but if you'd like to do more, a little something for our honeymoon is what we're saving for."

"We have no list, no china, no glass, just memories we hope will last. So if you'd like to give, we'd be thrilled, with a contribution to our fund, we'll be filled."

Use these on your wedding website, on a sign at the entrance, or in a small card with your invitation. Make sure the tone matches your personality. If you are not poetic, a simple heartfelt sentence works just as well.

Your wedding website is the best place to explain your gift preference. Write a dedicated page or section. Start with a thank you, then explain, then give clear instructions.

Example: "Thank you for being part of our day. We are lucky to have a home full of everything we need. If you would like to give a gift, we would love a contribution towards our honeymoon. You can find the details below. We cannot wait to celebrate with you."

If you are not using a fund service, you can simply say: "A card with a contribution is welcome, but please do not feel obliged." Always include a way to give, such as a bank transfer or a link to your fund. Make it easy for guests.

Also mention that you will send thank-you notes for every contribution, no matter the amount. This reassures guests that their gift is appreciated.

On the day, a sign near the gift table or card box can politely guide guests. Keep it short and warm. For example: "We have everything we need, but if you wish to give, a contribution towards our future adventures would be lovely. Thank you for being here."

Another option: "Your presence is our present. If you would like to give a gift, we are saving for a home deposit. A card with a contribution would be perfect."

If you have a card box, label it clearly: "Cards and contributions". This avoids confusion. You can also place a small note inside the box saying thank you.

Remember that some guests may still bring physical gifts. That is fine. Accept them gracefully and thank them warmly. Never make anyone feel awkward.

In the UK, giving cash as a wedding gift is common and appreciated. There is no set amount, and you should never ask for a specific sum. Guests give what they can afford. As a host, you should not mention amounts or suggest a minimum.

If you receive cash, thank the guest personally. Write a handwritten thank-you note within a few weeks of the wedding. Mention how you plan to use the gift, such as "we will put this towards our honeymoon" or "this will help with our new sofa". This makes the gift feel personal.

For guests, if you cannot attend but still want to send a gift, it is polite to send a card or contribution. There is no rule. For a second wedding, many couples ask for no gifts at all, but if you do receive contributions, thank them just as warmly.

Remember that gifts are not a tax issue. In the UK, you can give money to anyone at any time. There is no limit on wedding gifts. If you have questions about tax, check GOV.UK.

Creating a honeymoon fund is simple. You can use a dedicated online service, or you can set up a bank account and share the details. If you use a service, you can list specific experiences or a general fund. If you use a bank transfer, make sure to provide your sort code and account number securely.

On your wedding website, explain how it works. For example: "We have set up a honeymoon fund. If you would like to contribute, you can do so via the link below. We will use your gift towards our flights, hotel, and a special meal."

You can also have a card box with a note saying "contributions welcome". Some couples set up a QR code that guests can scan to give digitally. That is convenient and safe.

Make sure you thank every guest who contributes. Keep a list of who gave what so you can send personal notes. This is the most important part of the process.