Skip the Money Dance: Creative Ways for Guests to Gift Cash at Your Wedding

At Bushnell Event Center, we’re big believers that your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple. For many, the traditional money dance is a fun and festive way to collect cash gifts. But for others, it might feel a little awkward or just not fit their style.

So what if you’d like to skip the money dance—but still give guests a chance to help fund your honeymoon, new home, or future adventures?

Great news: there are plenty of creative, elegant, and affordable alternatives that keep the giving spirit alive, without anyone pinning dollars.

Here are some fun ideas to inspire you:

1. Cash or Digital Gift Box/Table

A classic solution with a modern twist! Set up a beautiful box, vintage suitcase, or decorated table where guests can drop cards and cash gifts.

Want to make it super convenient? Display QR codes for digital apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App so guests who don’t carry cash can still gift easily. Add a sweet sign that explains how their gifts will help fund your honeymoon, home, or future plans.

2. Honeymoon or Adventure Fund Station

Instead of general cash gifts, create a themed station inviting guests to “sponsor” experiences for your honeymoon or adventures ahead.

• “Buy us cocktails on the beach!”

• “Sponsor a snorkeling excursion!”

• “Help us visit a historic landmark!”

Use cute envelopes, a chalkboard menu, or even an online honeymoon registry for a fun, interactive experience.

3. Raffle or Prize Drawings

Bring a dash of excitement to your reception by offering a raffle. Sell small-value tickets, then draw names for fun prizes like:

• A gourmet gift basket

• A bottle of champagne

• A gift card to a local restaurant

Guests love the thrill—and you raise funds in a playful way.

4. Wishing Well

A timeless and elegant option! Set up a “wishing well” box or decorative container where guests drop envelopes with cash or gift cards.

Add a charming sign with a little rhyme, like:

“Drop your wishes and a little gift, To help give our new life a lift!”

It’s simple and classy.

5. Photobooth “Tip Jar”

Everyone loves a photobooth! Instead of a money dance, place a donation jar or QR code near the booth. Guests contribute for silly photos with props and backdrops—and you’ll end up with priceless snapshots from your big day.

6. Couple’s Trivia Game with Entry Fee

Test how well your guests know your love story! Host a trivia game during the reception and charge a small fee to enter.

Questions could include:

• Where did we go on our first date?

• Who said “I love you” first?

• What’s our favorite vacation destination?

Give a small prize to the winner—and enjoy a lot of laughter in the process!

7. Envelope “Money Tree”

Create a decorative tree with envelopes hanging from its branches. Guests can discreetly place cash gifts into the envelopes.

Bonus: It’s both a stunning piece of décor and a unique alternative to a card box.

8. Signature Drink Donations

Offer a special signature drink during your cocktail hour or reception. Post a cute sign inviting guests to “sip and support the honeymoon fund” with a suggested donation for each drink.

It’s delicious, memorable, and effective!

9. “Fund the Future” Table

Share your dreams for the future—buying a home, adopting a pet, starting a family—and invite guests to help you make them come true.

Create signs or photos explaining what each donation will support. Guests love knowing exactly how they’re contributing to your next chapter.

10. Donation Jars at the Bar or Dessert Table

Set out tasteful jars labeled “Honeymoon Fund” or “Future Adventures” at high-traffic spots like the bar or dessert table. Guests often enjoy dropping in a few extra dollars throughout the celebration.

Make It Your Own

Remember: there’s no “right” way to handle gifts at your wedding. What matters most is choosing traditions that feel meaningful and comfortable for you. Whether you’re looking for a stunning room for an elegant and affordable wedding, or want to plan unique experiences like these, Bushnell Event Center is here to help bring your vision to life.

Na ta ekatostisis—“May you live 100 years together!”