The key is how you ask, not whether you ask.
1. Use Your Wedding Website
This is the most appropriate and low-pressure place to share your wishes. Create a page or section titled something like:
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“Our Honeymoon Fund”
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“Help Us Build Our Future”
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“Gifts Are Optional”
Include a short, polite message like:
“Your presence is the greatest gift of all, but if you’d like to contribute to our honeymoon or future together, we’ve set up a secure cash fund below.”
2. Choose the Right Platform
Use a secure, wedding-friendly cash registry like:
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Zola
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Honeyfund
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Joy
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The Knot Cash Funds
These platforms let guests contribute to specific goals (like airfare, excursions, or savings) and send money digitally with little to no awkwardness.
3. Avoid Mentioning It on Your Invitation
Traditional etiquette says never include “cash gift” language directly on your wedding invitation. Instead, direct guests to your website, and let family and the wedding party help spread the word when guests ask.
4. Offer Other Options
Not every guest will be comfortable giving money. If possible, keep a small traditional registry available—especially for older guests or those who prefer tangible gifts.
Sample Wording You Can Use
Here are a few friendly, non-tacky ways to ask for money as a gift:
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“We’re lucky to already have a home full of everything we need. If you’d like to help us celebrate, we’ve set up a honeymoon fund to make some unforgettable memories.”
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“Your love and support mean the world to us! In lieu of a registry, we’ve created a fund for future adventures and milestones.”
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“We aren’t registering for household items, but if you’d like to contribute toward our next chapter, we’ve made it easy to do so on our wedding website.”
Final Thoughts
Asking for money instead of gifts is completely okay—and increasingly common. The key is to be respectful, thoughtful, and make it easy for guests to give in the way that feels right for them. Most guests want to support you—they just appreciate knowing how.
Still deciding on the best way to build your registry or cash fund? Check out our recommended platforms and local planning tools to get started.