When it comes to gifting presents, money has always been a go-to for many people. It’s practical, versatile, and universally accepted. However, handing over a simple envelope with cash can feel a tad impersonal and mundane. But don’t worry, there are many fun, innovative ways to present this universal gift that will make it feel far more thoughtful and exciting.

But before we look at the best ways to give money for a gift, let’s look at why the gift of money is the perfect Christmas gift. 

Why money makes the perfect Christmas gift

One of the major advantages of giving money as a Christmas gift is its versatility. Unlike physical presents, cold hard cash can be used for any purpose your loved one desires. It can be used for post-Christmas shopping, taking advantage of the sales and discounts that follow the holiday season. Alternatively, your loved one can save the money for a future purchase or put it towards a larger goal, such as a holiday or a deposit on a house. It’s the best gift for college students or young adults who may be a bit strapped for cash!

Cash provides the flexibility to choose something that you may not have been aware of. People’s preferences and needs can change over time, and by giving the gift of cash, our loved ones can select something that aligns with their current interests or priorities. This is the best way to ensure that the gift will be truly valued and put to good use.

So, let’s explore some of the most creative money gift ideas for the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to surprise your family member or a unique money gift idea for your young adult heading to college, there’s something for everyone.

1. Money Balloons

One of the most fun ways to gift money is through a surprise balloon pop. This idea is as simple as it is fun. Simply roll up some notes, tuck them into balloons, and inflate them. Then, place these loaded balloons into a box and gift it. When the unsuspecting recipient opens the box, they’ll be met with a colourful balloon party. And the real surprise comes when they pop the balloons to discover the cash inside! What a fun idea! 

2. The Toilet Paper Cash Roll

This is a great gift idea that’s sure to invoke a few chuckles. All you need is an empty toilet paper roll. Cut one side open and place a roll of notes that are taped together from end to end inside. Then cover the tube with some pretty festive paper and secure ribbons at each end. Make sure to leave an open slip so that the money can roll out when gently pulled. It’s a simple way to gift cash and it’s so much more fun than just handing over a card with money in it!

3. Play-Doh Surprise

Add a touch of childhood nostalgia to your cash gift with a Play-Doh surprise. Purchase a jar of Play-Doh, empty out the dough, and replace it with rolled-up notes. It’s a fun surprise that’s sure to bring a smile to the recipient’s face. Plus, it metaphorically offers them some “extra dough” for the holidays!

4. The Cash-Filled Tissue Box

This idea is perfect for anyone who loves a good surprise. Take an empty tissue box, and stuff it with notes that are taped end-to-end to form a continuous stream. When the recipient pulls on the notes, they’ll be shocked to find money instead of tissues! Attach a cute handmade gift tag that says, “don’t blow it all in one place” to add a humorous touch.

5. The Money Tree

Who said money doesn’t grow on trees? Create a beautiful money tree by attaching notes or pound coins to the branches of a small tree or plant. You could even add some festive decorations to make it a perfect holiday centrepiece. It’s a creative and visually appealing way to gift money.

6. The Money Lei

A money lei is a unique way to gift money, especially for special occasions like graduations, birthdays, or anniversaries. Simply fold your notes into a fan or accordion shape, then thread them onto a string or ribbon to create a necklace. Add colourful paper or bead spacers for a festive touch. It’s not only a great cash gift but also a fun fashion accessory!

7. The Money Notepad

Imagine being able to tear off a pound note from a notepad anytime you need one. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s possible to make this dream a reality for someone this holiday season. Simply bind together a stack of notes using padding compound to create a money notepad. It’s a fun and handy way to gift money.

8. The Money Pizza Box

If your gift recipient is a pizza lover, they’re going to adore this creative money gift idea. Arrange your notes in a circular pattern inside a pizza box, roll up some bills for the crust, and even add some coin ‘pepperonis’. The recipient will be thrilled to open a pizza box and find a delicious ‘money pizza’ inside!

9. The Money Bouquet

Flowers are lovely, but a bouquet of pound notes? Now that’s a unique gift! Simply roll up your pound notes and secure them with rubber bands or ribbons to create ‘flower buds’. Then attach these money flowers to skewers or floral wire, and arrange them in a vase. Not only is it a great way to gift money, but it also makes a beautiful centrepiece.

10. The Money Gift Box

This idea involves a bit of DIY, but it’s well worth it. Decorate a small box with a slot on top, much like a piggy bank. Then, fill it with pound coins or folded notes. The recipient will be thrilled to receive their own personal ‘ATM’, and it’s a gift they can keep even after they’ve spent the money.

11. Chocolate Bar Surprise 

For younger recipients, embed the cash within a chocolate bar. This playful packaging adds an element of surprise and excitement when they discover the hidden treasure inside.

12. Bookstore Bookmark

If the recipient is a big reader, use cash as a bookmark inside a book or a gift card to a bookstore. This not only presents the money in a thoughtful and relevant way but also encourages them to explore new literary adventures.

13. Hidden Cash Puzzle

Design a scavenger hunt or puzzle where the recipient has to solve clues to find hidden cash. This interactive and engaging experience adds an element of fun and surprise to the gift-giving process.

14. Fortune Cookies 

​A clever way to give money for Christmas is by putting money in a fortune cookie. Did you know that if you microwave a fortune cookie, it goes soft? Then you can open it replace the fortune with cash and close it again. Once it cools, it will harden! 

15. A box of chocolates

Life is like a box of chocolate – you never know what you’re going to get – why not hide some pound coins under the chocolates or notes between the layers?

16. Emergency Money

​Put some money in a glass frame along with a message that says ‘break in case of emergency’. This is a really good gift for a student or something who may be low on money from time to time!

Wrapping up, these are just some of the creative ways to gift money this holiday season. Remember, it’s not always the amount of money that counts, but the thought, time, and creativity you put into presenting it. So, get creative and make giving and receiving money this Christmas a fun and memorable experience.

Do you have any creative ideas about how to gift money?

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