Cash funds are a modern way to get the wedding gifts you really need and want. Get inspired to add a cash fund to your registry with 50 smart (and fun) ways to use your cash fund.
Last updated February 5, 2024
We’re not in the business of pretending that gifts aren’t one of the best parts of weddings. And, while we love traditional gifts and registry staples like kitchen appliances and crystal barware, there’s no denying the appeal of cold hard cash. It may sound a bit unrefined but you wouldn’t be the first couple to make money a major part of their wedding registry.
In fact, gifting money in lieu of gifts for weddings isn't a new concept. It's common at Indian, Italian, Jewish, Muslim, and Chinese weddings. However, the cash registry trend is still technically newer (but seriously gaining popularity) in America. It started with honeymoon funds and has since grown to accommodate all of a new couple’s wants and needs—literally. Onboard? Here's why you should have a wedding cash fund—and how to use it.
As we said, this concept really picked up steam thanks to the honeymoon fund. This can cover everything from your airfare and your lodging to your meals and excursions. Break these funds down into a few different categories to make it easy for guests to contribute to your specific needs. It’s even easier if you have an idea of the activities you and your spouse want to do during your honeymoon.
__Honeymoon Cash fund ideas: __
Your guests will be happy to help pay for an eventual new home or help make your current home one that you love. Plus, many of them already probably know how expensive home care can be.
New Home Cash fund ideas:
If you and your partner already know that buying a new family car is part of your long-term planning, ask for a cushion to get you started on saving.
Whether you want a puppy, kitten, or something more exotic, pets don’t come—or stay—cheap.
__New Pet Cash fund ideas: __
You may have a hobby that you already love to do together as a couple or you may be looking to try something new. Use your cash funds to help support the cost of your new ventures or your old favorites.
Hobby and Cultural Cash fund ideas:
The love doesn’t stop once the wedding is over. Ask for cash to keep your weeks full of events to spend quality time together.
Romantic Cash fund ideas:
Make cash funds to cover all those monthly fees for anything from hobbies to streaming services.
Subscription Services Cash fund ideas:
Build upon established collections or finally become the collector of your dreams with a cash fund dedicated to your favorite things to save.
Collection Cash fund ideas:
Yes, you can even ask for money to cover any beauty or grooming appointments ahead of your wedding. Use these funds as bonding and relaxation time with your soon-to-be-spouse.
Pre-wedding Appointment Cash fund ideas:
This one may feel a little less couth than other expenses, but anyone who’s thrown a wedding knows just how expensive they can become. If you feel comfortable, ask your guests to help you cover any of your wedding expenses or services.
Wedding Vendor Cash fund ideas:
Using your wedding registry cash fund as a way to give back to those in need is a popular and wonderful route to take. You can collect money to donate to a particular charity (or charities) of your choice. Your guests will be more than happy to know their money is going to support the causes dear to you.
Charity Cash fund ideas:
Your cash funds don’t need to be attached to physical gifts or experiences—you can also direct your money to future financial goals. Use your cash funds to help set you and your partner up for long-term success.
Investment Cash fund ideas:
The point is that you can literally use your cash funds however you and your partner decide. It’s essentially fundraising but for your life—accept those donations! Zola makes it easy to customize your cash funds just about any way you want. Don’t feel weird about requesting money. Weddings, experiences, and life are all expensive. Your guests will be happy to support your new life together however they can.
Wedding cash funds are a great option for anyone but they’re especially beneficial for couples in the following situations:
That’s super normal. The cash fund wedding gift trend is gaining in popularity, but it’s still a relatively new concept, especially for older wedding guests. That said, there’s no shame in the cash registry game—you should feel good asking for the gifts that work best for your lifestyle. If you’re still feeling a little off about it, here are some cash fund etiquette tips.
The beauty of cash funds is that they’re yours to do with whatever you please. In theory, you could just make one large fund without any decided upon purpose. However, your wedding guests probably prefer to have a tangible idea of where their money is going (again, cash funds are still a newer concept for many). So, it’s nice to give your monetary gifts some direction. Here are just some wedding fund ideas on how to use your cash gifts.
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