Asking for cash as a wedding Gift?

You've decided you don't want to register with a gift list company, so is it okay to ask your friends and family for cash?

You'd prefer the money to put towards a new kitchen but your guests seem determined to buy more traditional gifts. It can be an uncomfortable scenario but one you can resolve with a little tact and understanding. It's no longer considered bad form to ask for money - although some guests who enjoy the whole shopping experience may still prefer to choose a present - you just have to approach the subject in the right way.

Explain early on in the planning that you will not be arranging a gift list as

a) you have been living together for some time and have already collected lots of the things you need

b) you want to wait until you have your dream home to choose decorations or furnishings, rather than rush into it now, or

c) any other reason you can think of that won't offend people.

Try to stress that, of course, you don't expect a gift - the company of your loved ones on the big day is enough - but if people were thinking of getting you something to mark the occasion, wouldn't it be better to have something you really want rather than a bread maker you will never use?

Here are some poems and versus that we've compiled to help couples approach this area of concern..

We have most of the things we need
Like a kettle and two toasters,
We have two different crockery sets
With dinner plates and coasters,
Pots and pans, knives and forks
A chopping board for cheese,
If you would like to give us a gift
We would like the money please!

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They have their dishes and towels for two
They have pots and pans and oven mitts too
So what do you get for the Bride & Groom
Whose house is setup in every room?

Their house needs repairs and some upgrades too
But you can not register for carpet and glue.
A well that holds wishes is the way to go
So lets make it easy for all that know.

An envelope will be provided for those who have room,
To give a monetary wish to the Bride and Groom
A wishing well will be on display at the reception hall
To attach your wishes, for the couple, with love from all

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Because at first we lived in sin
We've got the sheets and a rubbish bin
A gift from you would be swell
But we'd prefer a donation to our Wishing Well!

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More than just kisses so far we've shared,
Our home has been made with Love and Care,
Most things we need we've already got,
And in our home we can't fit a lot!

A wishing well we thought would be great,
(But only if you wish to participate),
A gift of money is placed in the well,
Then make a wish .... but shhh don't tell!

Once we've replaced the old with the new,
We can look back and say it was thanks to you!
And in return for your kindness, we're sure
That one day soon you will get what you wished for

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If you were thinking of giving a gift, to help us on our way.
A gift of cash towards our house, would really make our day.
However, if you prefer to purchase a gift, feel free to surprise us in your own way