Question: Can I Ask For Money Instead of a Wedding Present?
When you're planning a wedding, it's tempting to ask for money instead of wedding gifts. Especially if you've been together a while, or already have furnished a home, you may think that you don't want any presents. And especially when the expenses of planning such a huge event start to pile up, money looks especially appealing. So can you ask for money instead of a wedding gift?
Answer: It's widely considered inappropriate to ask for money. "It felt really awkward to me when my friend told me that they only wanted money for wedding presents" says Timothy Parker*, who asked to remain anonymous. "I felt like I was contributing to their cable bill, rather than giving them a long-lasting symbol of my support for their union." Reader Janet Paterson*, another frequent wedding guest adds, "When my friends asked me for money, I felt like I was being charged admission to their wedding. I don't think the bride and groom should talk about gifts at all with their guests." Instead of asking for money, consider registering for your honeymoon, using theknot.com's Create-a-gift, or asking guests to donate to a charity.
