Celebrities’ Wedding Cash Request Sparks Debate
A celebrity couple’s decision to ask wedding guests to fund their nuptials has sparked mixed reactions. While some call it “tacky,” others argue that cash reigns supreme. American actress AnnaLynne McCord, known for her roles on ‘90210,’ ‘Nip/Tuck,’ and ‘Days of Our Lives,’ and her fiancé, English former professional rugby player Danny Cipriani, have set up a page on Honeyfund. They invite contributions towards various elements of their ‘dream wedding.’ The registry lists expenses from $100 to $600, including the marriage license, reception drinks, photography, rehearsal dinner, and floral arrangements.
A Texas-based etiquette expert, Diane Gottsman, shared her views with Fox News Digital. ‘Tacky is an ugly word, but it’s unkind to ask guests for money on any occasion,’ she stated. ‘It’s impolite to directly request cash. Let your family or website convey your wishes.’
Gottsman emphasized the importance of a registry to provide guests with options. While cash is convenient and acceptable as a request on a website for a honeymoon or home down payment, it shouldn’t be the sole option. Some guests might prefer to give traditional gifts, and that choice should remain available. ‘A gift is not an entry ticket to your wedding,’ Gottsman mentioned. ‘Registries simplify gifting, but guests are free to choose what they prefer. It’s a gracious act of giving.’
Online discussions on Reddit reveal that opinions on cash registries vary. Some users see it as a modern, accepted trend. Gottsman clarified that while cash options are acceptable, asking guests to cover wedding costs feels ‘off-putting.’
One user questioned, ‘Is it bad to ask for money instead of gifts?’ The responses varied, but many agreed that cash registries are now common. A user noted, ‘Most weddings I’ve attended recently had cash registries.’ Another shared an example: ‘We received no backlash after choosing a cash registry, receiving money from all but one friend, who offered us a meat subscription box instead,’ highlighting cultural variations in gifting norms.
An Asian Redditor highlighted the cultural differences: ‘In our culture, money is the sole gift exchanged. I don’t understand why American culture frowns upon cash gifts.’ A fellow Redditor replied, ‘There’s a taboo around money in American culture. We signal wealth indirectly through big weddings or designer items.’
One participant in the forum changed her view after asking if it would be rude to request money. She opted to include cash as an option alongside other gifts. Couples should host weddings within their financial means, Gottsman advised, as requesting cash alters the celebration’s atmosphere.
If guests prefer not to contribute cash, there’s a polite way to decline. Gottsman suggested, ‘Tell them, ‘I have something else in mind, and hope you enjoy it,’ rather than expressing annoyance at cash requests.’
For a timeless gift, choose something sentimental and thoughtful that fits the couple’s preferences. Including a gift receipt provides them flexibility to return it if needed, Gottsman recommended.