Wedding ceremonies, birthdays, anniversary parties, and baby showers are all events that we celebrate with friends and family. These occasions bring people together to share their personal milestones and create unforgettable memories. However, there is one common question that often arises: “What should I give as a gift?” If you’re someone who prefers cash gifts instead of presents, it can be difficult to know how to politely ask for them without offending anyone. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to politely ask for a cash gift.
Why Get Cash Gifts?
Before we dive into how to properly ask for cash gifts, let’s talk about why someone would prefer them over traditional presents. There are several reasons why people prefer cash gifts over other options:
- Flexibility: Cash gifts provide more flexibility than traditional gifts. You can use the money to buy what you need or want, instead of receiving something that may not fit your style or taste.
- Saves Time: Getting cash gifts saves the time, energy, and money that go into exchanging or returning products that don’t suit your needs or preferences.
- Practicality: Sometimes people prefer to save for a long-term financial goal, for example, a home renovation, apartment deposit, or starting up a business. Cash gifts can help offset the initial cost of this goal.
How to Politely Ask for Cash Gifts
If you wish to receive cash gifts, you must understand the art of politely requesting for them.
1. Request for a Gift of Money on Your Website
A typical way to let your guests know that you prefer cash gifts is to add it to your wedding website or baby registry. The registry is a perfect place to provide your guests with instructions on where to make a cash contribution. You can also use e-invitations to send guests a polite reminder about the registry.
2. Use a Poem to Indicate Your Gift Preference
Using a poem is a fun and creative way to let guests know that you prefer cash gifts. These poems tend to be catchy and lighthearted while keeping the tone light and friendly. You can write your own or search online for already created poems. Here are a few examples:
Many of our friends have asked us
True happiness they say cannot be bought
We’ve got all the pots and pans
drawers full to the top
So instead of buying us a gift
We have another plan!
To save you shopping, looking and buying
Here’s an idea, we hope you’ll like trying!
Come to our wedding, to wish us both well,
And please make a donation to our wishing well.
3. Be Clear with Your Invitation Wording
Your wedding invitation wording should be clear and concise. If you want cash gifts, let your guests know that you appreciate their thoughts and effort in trying to buy you a gift but that you would prefer cash for an important reason. Here is an example of how you could phrase your invitation:
Your presence at our wedding would be the most excellent gift,
but should you wish to honor us with a gift, we have a small request.
Our future plans are coming fast,
And we would appreciate your contribution towards our future blast.
Anything would be kindly received and much appreciated.
4. Suggest Gift Card Alternatives
If you feel like asking for cash may come across as impolite, have no fear. You can request a gift card as an alternative. It would be best if you specified a store, retailer, or website that you enjoy. Here is an example of how you could phrase your request for gift cards:
We’re fortunate to have most essentials for our home,
So instead of buying gifts or items you need to have shipped,
A gift card that we can use would be a dream,
From (store/website/retailer) you think would be best, it would be a kind esteem.
5. Be Tactful with Your Friends and Family
If your friends or family members are unsure of what you want, be tactful when asking for cash gifts. When they ask, tell them that you are setting up a saving account for a goal in mind. You could say something like:
We’re hoping to save some money for (goal) and we figured that we could make the most of our gifts by putting them toward this account. Or tell them that
“We have been saving for (goal) for a while now and we would appreciate a cash gift instead of a traditional present. We appreciate any contribution you could make.”
Conclusion
Asking for cash gifts without coming across as impolite can be challenging, but with these tips and tricks, it can be a successful process. Remember to follow these guidelines politely and ensure that your guests know you appreciate their thoughts and effort, regardless of what they ultimately end up gifting you. In any event, have a great time and enjoy your special occasion!
FAQ
What is the etiquette for cash gift?
When it comes to gift-giving, there are many different etiquette standards, especially when the gift in question involves cash. Although giving cash has traditionally been viewed as a last resort or a sign of thoughtlessness, it has recently become more acceptable, especially for occasions like weddings or graduations. In fact, according to Emily Post, cash gifts are perfectly acceptable in many situations.
One of the reasons cash gifts have become more popular is that many people are getting married later in life. Because they may already have kitchen appliances, home décor items and other registry basics, cash can be a more practical and helpful gift. Additionally, cash gifts can be used toward a savings account or a honeymoon and provide experiences that last beyond just the wedding day.
Even though cash gifts are more widely accepted, there are still rules to follow when giving cash to ensure that you’re being thoughtful and respectful. First, it’s always a good idea to include a personalized message to the recipient, acknowledging the special occasion and extending your well wishes. This can make a cash gift feel more personal and thoughtful.
In terms of the actual amount to be given, it’s standard to give an amount that reflects your relationship with the recipient and the occasion. For example, for a wedding, you might give more if you’re the best man or maid of honor, while a smaller amount might suffice if you’re just an acquaintance. However, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to the precise amount, so it’s entirely up to you to decide what you feel is appropriate.
Finally, it’s important to approach cash gifts in a discreet and modest way. This means that it’s not appropriate to flaunt the amount you gave or expect the recipient to thank you profusely. After all, the purpose of a cash gift is to express your congratulations or appreciation in a meaningful and practical way, not to gain attention or praise.
When it comes to cash gifts, the most important thing to keep in mind is to be thoughtful, respectful and considerate of the recipient’s wishes and the occasion at hand. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your cash gift is a well-received and appreciated token of your congratulations or appreciation.
How do you say monetary gifts preferred for birthday invitations?
When it comes to celebrating a birthday, it’s always nice to receive gifts from friends and family. However, sometimes it can be difficult to find the perfect gift that the recipient will love. That’s why more and more people are starting to include a request for monetary gifts on their birthday invitations.
If you’re considering this option, it’s important to handle the wording carefully. You want to make it clear that you’re not expecting anything specific or demanding money from your guests. Instead, you’re simply letting them know that you would appreciate a monetary gift if they choose to bring one.
One option for wording your request is to use a poem or playful rhyme. For example, you may consider something like:
“We really would appreciate a little money of our own,
instead of a little gift for our new home!
We know you want to find something nice,
But it’s such a hassle to find the right price.
So come and enjoy the day all sunny,
We really would appreciate a little money.”
Another option is to directly state your request in a polite and friendly manner. You could include a line like: “In lieu of traditional gifts, we kindly request any monetary contributions that you would like to offer.”
It’s also important to remember that it’s completely okay if your guests decide not to bring a gift at all, monetary or otherwise. In fact, some people may prefer to bring a physical gift, while others may feel more comfortable giving money. the focus should be on celebrating your special day with loved ones, rather than on the gifts themselves.
If you’re considering requesting monetary gifts on your birthday invitations, make sure to handle the wording carefully and respectfully. Remember to emphasize that the focus is on celebrating with loved ones, and that gifts are optional and appreciated but not expected.
How do you say gift without saying gift?
There are a variety of words that can be used to indicate a gift, without specifically using the term “gift”. These words include allowance, award, benefit, bonus, contribution, donation, endowment, favor, gesture of goodwill, present, offering, provision, gratuity and token of appreciation. Each of these words carry a different connotation, and may be used depending on the context of the situation.
For example, the word “allowance” may be used when referring to a regular or monthly payment that is given to an individual, such as an allowance given to a child. “Award” can be used when referencing a prize or recognition given for a particular accomplishment or achievement, such as an award for employee of the year. “Favor” can be used when indicating a kind or helpful act done for someone else, such as a favor done for a friend or neighbor.
Other words, such as “donation” or “contribution” may be more commonly used in a context of charity or philanthropy. “Endowment” may be used when referring to a sum of money or property given to a charitable organization or institution. “Present” or “offering” may be used when giving a physical object to someone, such as a birthday present or wedding offering.
There are many different ways to indicate a gift without using the word itself. The right word to use depends on the context and nuance of the situation, as well as personal preference and the level of formality required.