Should I mention a preference for cash instead of physical gifts?

Question

How do I tell people I'd way rather have cash than actual stuff for our housewarming without sounding like a total jerk? We finally closed on our little fixer-upper in Portland and I am so hyped but our budget for renovations is super tight right now, like maybe 5k total.

I read online that it is fine to do a honeyfund style link for things like this but then some blogs said for a housewarming you should just let people bring whatever they want or its rude. I really dont need another candle or a cheese board because we already have way too many kitchen gadgets from our old apartment. Is it weird to just put a little note on the invite or should I just keep my mouth shut...

PimmsOClock · Accepted Answer

Honestly, just be upfront about it. Most people would rather give you something you actually need than waste money on a random candle you'll just donate later anyway. When we moved, we used a digital registry specifically for renovation costs. It works because it gives people a clear goal to fund rather than just feeling like they are handed a bill. You could check out Honeyfund or a similar cash-registry site to set this up professionally. Just keep the wording casual on the invite. Mention that you are focusing on the renovation budget and while their presence is the real gift, a contribution to the fixer-upper fund is appreciated if they really want to give something. It is a direct approach and saves everyone the hassle of dealing with gift receipts. People usually appreciate not having to guess what you want, plus kitchen gadgets are a nightmare to store when you are mid-reno.

ShatnerSpace · Answer

Been thinking about your post for a bit and I actually have a slightly different take! While cash is fantastic for that 5k budget, asking for it directly can sometimes feel a bit risky with more traditional guests. You should try creating a themed project registry instead so people feel like they are contributing to something permanent! It is an amazing way to bridge the gap. Here is what I would do:

Set up a fund specifically for things like The Kitchen Tile Fund or New Porch Paint

Use Share Product to pull together specific items you need from different stores into one organized list

Keep the amounts small so people can pick what fits their budget, like 25 dollar increments

Explain exactly what the renovation goal is so they feel involved This approach feels way more professional and safe than a generic cash link. I love the idea of a fixer upper, its gonna look incredible once you guys get started!

WembleyWinner · Answer

^ This. Also, omg I am literally in the exact same boat right now!! We just picked up a total disaster of a house and I am so stressed about the renovation costs... it is seriously keeping me up at night. I have been looking for an answer to this for weeks and I still feel totally stuck! I actually tried playing around with the Walmart shopping list creator to see if that would help organize some of the hardware stuff we need but I still cant figure out the right way to tell people we just need the cash instead of more kitchen towels. It is so tough because I dont want to offend anyone but we really dont need more random stuff cluttering up the place while we are trying to fix the floors... definitely feels like a losing battle tho! I wish there was a clear rule for this because the anxiety is real!