How do you ask for money instead of presents in a birthday invitation?

8. Juli 2025 | Reading time: approx. 2 minutes
An illustration of the English question: How to?
If you don't yet know what you want, it makes sense to ask for money instead of gifts in the invitation. But what's the best way to do this?
Illustration: AI generated

The invitation for the next birthday party is coming up and you already have everything you need. Toys, clothes and household items are already piling up in the cupboards anyway. Now what? One trend that is becoming increasingly popular is to kindly ask guests to bring money instead of gifts. But how do you phrase this request charmingly without coming across as unpleasant?

Why ask for money at all?

Cash gifts offer many advantages. Firstly, you avoid duplicate or inappropriate gifts and save resources at the same time. You can also use gifts of money to fulfill larger wishes or achieve a special savings goal more quickly - be it a bike, a vacation or a special wish from the heart. Guests also benefit because they don't have to worry about what you might like.

Finding the right wording

Of course, you want to remain polite and not give anyone the feeling that a gift is obligatory. The best advice here is to be friendly and relaxed. Here are some tried and tested sample formulations for your invitation:

  • Charming and elegant:
    "Actually, we already have everything we need. If you would still like to give us a gift, we would be happy to receive a small financial injection into our piggy bank."
  • Relaxed and humorous:
    "We have enough dust catchers - but our piggy bank still has plenty of room!"
  • Targeted and transparent:
    "I'm dreaming of a new bike. Anyone who would like to support me with this is welcome to throw a few coins into the piggy bank."
  • With rhyme and charm:
    "Presents are great, but my room is full. That's why I say it cleverly, my piggy bank also likes to take cash exactly."

Further tips

Remain friendly and optional

It is important to make it clear in all formulations that gifts of money are voluntary. No one should feel pressured. Phrases such as "Who would like..." or "It would be great if..." give guests the freedom they need and prevent misunderstandings.

Make communication clear and relaxed

The main focus of the invitation should always be on celebrating and spending time together. Your request for gifts of money can be formulated as a small footnote or separate additional sentence. This way it doesn't come across as intrusive, but nice and informal.

Don't forget to say thank you!

After the party, it's important to briefly thank your guests to show your appreciation. It doesn't matter whether they brought money or a small gift.

Written by:

Dennis Niedernhöfer

I run the wish list service wisheezy and provide information here in the magazine about interesting topics relating to giving and receiving gifts.