Are you planning your big day and wondering how to ask for money as a wedding gift? Here are some tasteful yet creative ways to express it. Image by Daniela Ortiz Photography.
Are you planning your big day and wondering how to ask for money as a wedding gift? You’re not alone! Many couples today grapple with the wedding gift dilemma. Whether you’ve been together for years, need no more kitchen gadgets, have limited space, or dream of a lavish honeymoon, sometimes all you really want is cash. Is it okay to seek money instead of traditional presents? The answer is a resounding yes, as long as you do it with finesse.
Your wedding should reflect your wishes, and there’s no rule against requesting cash. What matters most is how you make the request. So, if cash is your preference, here are some tasteful yet creative ways to express it, ensuring your guests feel appreciated and not offended.
When it comes to your wedding invitations, consider adding a line about gifts. It’s a direct approach and usually works best. If you phrase it carefully, it doesn’t have to appear pushy. We’ve crafted some options for you, from straightforward to subtle, formal to casual, so there’s something for everyone. Feel free to choose the wording that best suits your style and ensures your message is delivered with gratitude and sincerity.
Celebrating Your Presence: “Your presence at our wedding is the most cherished gift of all. However, if you’d like to honor us with a gift, a cash contribution would be greatly appreciated.”
Focus on the Celebration: “What truly matters to us is having you join our wedding celebration. Should you choose to give a gift, we welcome a small contribution to our honeymoon.”
Highlighting the Honeymoon: “We feel truly fortunate with love, laughter, and a furniture-filled home. If you’d like to help us celebrate, we’ve established a honeymoon fund at (details here).
Open to Cash Gifts: “Cash gifts are appreciated though not expected.”
Cash Gift for the Honeymoon: “While cash gifts are appreciated but not obligatory, they will be dedicated to our dream honeymoon.”
Emphasize Presence: “Cash gifts are a lovely gesture if you’d like to contribute to our honeymoon. However, your presence on our special day means the world to us.”
Simple Appreciation: “Simply being with us on our wedding day is a gift in itself. If you wish to give a present, a cash gift towards our honeymoon would be gratefully received.”
Important Tips to Remember on How to Ask For Money as a Wedding Gift
Be Genuine
When crafting your request for cash on your invitations or website, remember to be sincere and speak from the heart. Your family and friends know you well, so show gratitude for their consideration of a cash gift for your special day.
Keep It Simple
Tailor your message to match your guest list’s personality. If most of them prefer brevity, go with that, but keep it personal and warm. Sometimes, simplicity is key when asking for cash as a wedding gift.
Add Some Fun
If humor is your style, use it to your advantage! Just remember to keep it tasteful, as not everyone may fully embrace the idea of online cash registries.
Send Prompt Thank-You Notes
Traditional wedding etiquette allowed up to a year to send thank-you notes. However, for cash gifts, it’s best to send a personalized thank-you note as soon as possible, even before your wedding, if you can. This conveys your appreciation and gratitude for their gift.
When it comes to those post-wedding thank-you cards, we understand it can feel overwhelming. But we’ve got your back! We’re here to help you express your gratitude for their presence and presents with the perfect blend of heartfelt and straightforward messages. To make this task even easier, don’t forget to check out our guide to writing thank-you cards. This way, you can quickly check this post-wedding duty off your list and focus on what truly matters.
Even if you’re usually confident, bringing up the idea of a cash gift for your wedding might feel a tad tricky. But with these valuable tips and choice of words, it will be a breeze to share your preference with your dear ones in a warm and gracious manner.
At first, Alex and Marcus dreamed of having their wedding in a faraway, exciting place. But then they had a realization. They wanted their closest loved ones to be there, so they needed a spot that had a relaxed, tropical feel and was easy for both their Colorado and Kansas families to get to. Luckily, Marcus had been to Playa Del Carmen before, and they knew it was just the right spot for a timeless celebration. Playing off the natural and beautiful scenery, their Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen wedding balanced coastal vibes, a classic color palette, and modern style. It was everything they had ever dreamed of–a true tropical fairytale come to life.
They went all in, choosing the resort’s pool deck for their ceremony. Just imagine it: a flower-covered aisle leading to a lush arch while the ocean served as a stunning backdrop for their vows. After they became Mr. and Mrs., a private courtyard reception followed, where all-white tables with low centerpieces took center stage. Adding a touch of magic were glimmering disco balls and twinkling string lights. But the excitement didn’t end there. They set the right party vibe with confetti, marking the start of the all-night festivities.
If you’re all about achieving that effortless elegance in a tropical paradise for your wedding, don’t stop scrolling! These captivating images, beautifully captured by Junebug member Memorybox, are sure to inspire your special day.
The Intimate Morning Vows That Set the Tone to Their Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Wedding Day
Marcus and I began our wedding day uniquely. We woke up together in our PJs, brushed our teeth, brewed some coffee in our hotel room, and met his sister, Ashley, our officiant, at sunrise on the beachside deck. With our self-written vows and Ashley’s sermon, we had an intimate ceremony just for each other, free from cameras and onlookers. While it marked the start of our best day, our mornings usually start this way—comfy and quiet with coffee. We shared emotional vows that grounded us for the busy wedding day ahead. This private moment will forever hold a special place in our hearts as we reminisce about our wedding day.
Chic and Effortless Wedding Fashion Choices Complete With Dior Air Force Ones
I visited several bridal shops but had a clear vision: a simple, classic gown with minimal frills or embellishments, a low back for a touch of elegance and allure, and a square or high neckline. I found my perfect gown at Grace Loves Lace, paired with a cathedral-length veil. While considering changing into a reception dress, I decided my wedding dress was meant for that special day. My gown was so comfortable without any boning, and I added a hair change after the ceremony, opting for a bubble braid, a style I love, and some back jewelry. As for Marcus, he designed his custom wedding suit in Milan, Italy, by Virum Napoli. He wanted a light cream suit with a high-waisted side belt, aiming for a timeless, classic, and effortless look that would never go out of style. We both switched into our Dior Air Force Ones for the reception, ready to dance the night away.
How Setting Wedding Priorities Shaped Their Venue Search
Marcus and I took a moment to identify our top three wedding priorities. For me, it was marrying the love of my life, guest logistics, and creating a memorable party. On the other hand, Marcus valued having a stress-free wedding day, ensuring guest happiness, and having awesome music and fun. With these priorities in mind, we embarked on our venue search. We both wanted a resort catering to our core needs—easy access for our guests, a smooth journey from the airport to the venue, and a fantastic hotel and vacation experience. We found it all in The Grand Hyatt, offering a personalized, 5-star wedding experience without breaking the bank. Its modern bridal aesthetic, a departure from the typical beach or boho vibe, immediately resonated with me. This choice allowed us to make the most of our Mexican adventure.
Crafting Moments and Choosing Music to Personalize Their Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Wedding Ceremony
Our ceremony was highly personalized. Marcus’s older sister, Ashley, our officiant, crafted a beautiful sermon just for us. Marcus and I exchanged written vows, which I highly recommend for a personal touch. Music choice was another critical element in personalizing our ceremony. Our wedding parties and friends walked down the aisle to “Sweet Child Of Mine” by Vitamin String Quartet. Our wedding party sat in the second row of the guest seating on opposite sides of us, so we could easily see our favorite people in the crowd. I walked down the aisle to “Simply The Best” by Tina Turner. During the ceremony, my dear friend Kait read a chosen passage about marriage, love, and our journey ahead. Her husband and stepdad, Richard Simmons, escorted my mom down the aisle. Marcus and I’s processional song was “She’s So High” by Tal Bachman. There are countless unique ways to personalize your ceremony.
Intentional Decor, Food, and Music Choices That Made a Fun Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Wedding Reception Vibe
For our reception, we initially set up three columns of tables in a zig-zag style, but we quickly pivoted to a farm-style arrangement, which we ended up loving. We aimed to make the dance floor the focal point of the reception, a lively hub for everyone to enjoy an authentic fiesta. The day was full of joy, but when we hit the dance floor, it was time to let loose and dance the night away. Music and an energetic dance floor were top priorities for us. We brought in a unique hybrid DJ and instrumental band, making the dance experience even better than we imagined. The service was exceptional throughout the week and on our wedding day, and we indulged in a delicious 5-course dinner. The floral arrangements on the reception table were stunning, tastefully running the length of the farm table. Marcus was particular about avoiding tall, eye-level floral arrangements that might hinder conversation, so we maintained height with disco balls, up lights, and string lights over the reception area.
Tips for a Successful Destination Wedding
Here’s some unsolicited advice for those planning a destination wedding. First, hire a local wedding planner; they’re worth every penny for saving your sanity and bringing your dream wedding to life. Next, prioritize your wedding goals as a couple and focus on what truly matters to you. Budget wisely, then choose vendors that align with your design preferences, emphasizing what’s most important to you. Avoid going into debt, stick to your budget, and don’t stress over minor details. While social media can inspire, don’t get too caught up in trends. Design a wedding that reflects your personality. After the big day, watch out for the post-wedding blues and plan a honeymoon or a fun trip to look forward to. Most importantly, enjoy the process, have fun, and remember that it all comes together in the end, even if it feels like it’s over in the blink of an eye.
Creating a Memorable Arrival Through Useful Welcome Bags
We gave out welcome bags to our guests who stayed at the hotel and handed out the rest to those who stayed at alternate hotels during our welcome party. We put our wedding week itineraries with a QR code to our wedding website, a hotel map in the bag, water, snacks/gum, etc. Favors usually get left behind. So got items the guests would really like, use, and find beneficial to the week.
How They Created Their Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Wedding Budget by Making Smart Money-Saving Choices
We had a wedding budget of around $80,000-$100,000. So we splurged on the venue for the food, DJ and band, and the florals and production to create the wedding of our dreams. We cut out a larger live band. I did my makeup and had my sister-in-law do my wedding hair. The wedding dress was also on the more cost-effective side.
Ensuring Their Guests’ Travel was Worth It by Hosting Events Throughout the Wedding Week
We aimed to provide our guests with an effortlessly relaxing vacation while celebrating our wedding, almost as a delightful bonus to their trips. This was a shared priority for Marcus and me, with our guests at the heart of our location choices. Creating a memorable wedding week experience was important, including a themed white welcome beach party, an intimate rehearsal dinner, and a post-wedding sailboat excursion for our closest friends. We wanted the day to accurately reflect Marcus and me. Which meant being selective with our guest list. We had 98 attendees out of approximately 150 invitations sent out. Every guest was personally meaningful to us.
Congratulations to Alex and Marcus on their effortlessly beautiful Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen wedding. And a big thank you to Junebug members MemoryBox for capturing every stunning detail and magical moment this couple will cherish for the rest of their lives. To see more of their talent, check out their profile in our directory of the best wedding photographers from around the world.
These breathtaking photos might just ignite your desire to say “I do” in Mexico, following in the footsteps of this lovely couple. And who can blame you? Mexico is a truly gorgeous destination! If you’re ready to take the plunge, be sure to explore our handy planning guide to tying the knot there and a list of the most dreamy venues in Mexico. It’s the perfect way to kick-start your wedding journey!
Your wedding is a momentous occasion–one that demands the perfect accessories to complement the beauty and significance of the day. We know there’s a lot involved in wedding planning, including picking out the right jewelry. From the engagement and wedding rings to the smaller details like wedding day jewelry and thoughtful anniversary gifts, each piece captures the essence of your love story. That’s why we’re breaking down how to choose your wedding jewelry while giving you some of our favorite pieces from Charles & Colvard.
Understanding Personal Style and Preferences
Before diving into the details of specific pieces, it’s important to understand your personal style and preferences. Think about your everyday choices. Are you typically attracted to classic, modern, or bohemian looks? Envision how you want to showcase your personality through your jewelry on the big day. And most importantly, remember that this jewelry is going to become sentimental. Although you can always upgrade your engagement ring or wedding band down the line, these are pieces you may want to pass down to generations. They’re also going to be photographed often. Make sure they feel true to you.
How to Choose Your Wedding Jewelry
Engagement Rings
An engagement ring symbolizes the promise of love and commitment. When choosing an engagement ring, consider the four Cs–cut, color, clarity, and carat–as well as the diamond shapes and cut styles to ensure you select a timeless piece that resonates with you. If you’re looking to save a little money, consider opting for a moissanite stone or another gemstone, which offer just as much beauty for a fraction of the cost.
Wedding bands serve as a tangible representation of your vows. When selecting wedding bands, consider intricate engravings, unique finishes, or matching designs to complement your engagement ring. Remember, you will be wearing them together, so you want them to create a unified look when stacked. Enhancers and stacks can help achieve this look if necessary.
Wedding jewelry–including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets–is the final touch to complete and elevate your wedding attire. To create a cohesive look, coordinate the style and metal of your wedding jewelry with your engagement ring and wedding bands. If you don’t mind mixing things up, there’s nothing wrong with mixing metals or gemstones! Lastly, opt for delicate pieces that accentuate your gown without overpowering it.
Celebrate milestones with thoughtful anniversary gifts that capture the love that you share throughout the years. If you want to make it super sentimental, consider custom-designed jewelry that incorporates meaningful symbols or significant dates, such as a pendant with your wedding date engraved or a ring adorned with birthstones representing each family member.
While choosing wedding jewelry and anniversary gifts can be overwhelming, seeking guidance from trusted jewelers can make things a little easier. That’s why we recommend Charles & Colvard. They live by the idea that fine jewelry should be both accessible and conscientious. They use lab-grown gems set in recycled precious metals, so you can wear jewelry that sparkles–but it won’t hurt your wallet. That’s what we call a win-win!
With careful consideration and a dash of personality, selecting the perfect wedding jewelry can be easier than you think. If you’re ready to get started, head over to Charles & Colvard and explore all of their stunning pieces that you’re sure to love.
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