Many newlyweds have already accrued the appliances and amenities that come with a traditional gift registry. Money may be a better gift for a variety of reasons, depending on their situation. Some want money when they are getting married for the first time so they have a lump sum to put towards their first house or towards a new car, while those that are remarrying could use the extra cash to begin their new lives together. No matter who they are, the couple can almost always use a helping hand that will be very much appreciated and entirely useful.

If you are one of those couples that would prefer cash, you need to know how to spread the word to you guests. You should let your parents, close relatives, wedding party members and friends know that if guests ask, they can tell them that you prefer checks over a traditional registry. However, you should still give your guests the choice between writing a check or getting you a material gift because some may really want to give you something other than a check. So make sure you still do a registry at a retailer to give everyone an option.

If you would rather set up an account than deal with a multitude of checks, there is actually a Bridal Registry Account that was created by a federal department (Housing and Urban Development). The couple can set up the savings account in banks that are approved by the Federal Housing Administration and their guests can deposit cash gifts directly into the account, which also accrues interest.

If you will be receiving checks, it is important that you know how your guests should fill them out in case they ask. If they will be sending a check before the wedding, it should be made out to either the bride (using her maiden name, even if it will be changed) OR groom. If the check will be received after the wedding, it should be addressed to both the bride AND the groom. This will make cashing them after the wedding easier and this also the traditional method for filling them out. Also, if you will be handed checks at the wedding, you should designate an individual to collect them, such as the best man or the maid of honor. Both individuals could hang on to the checks while you are away on your honeymoon or deposit them into your account to save you the time. Just make sure that they make a list of gave you what before they take the checks to the bank.