Wishing Well Wording Generator

Create polite, clear wording for your invitations or event page. Generate wording templates for weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and more. Choose your tone and customise to match your style.

Generate Your Wishing Well Wording

Create polite, clear wording for your invitations or event page. Choose your event type, tone, and names.

Choose the tone that matches your event style.

Add a line mentioning your PocketWell wishing well

Australian Wishing Well Wording Guide

Finding the right words for your wishing well invitation can feel challenging. You want to be polite, clear, and avoid making guests feel pressured while still communicating your preference for monetary gifts. This comprehensive guide covers Australian wishing well wording etiquette for weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and other special occasions—helping you craft the perfect message for your invitations or event page.

What to Write on Wedding Invitations for a Wishing Well

Wedding wishing well wording in Australia has become increasingly common, with many couples preferring monetary gifts over traditional registries. The key is to be polite and emphasise that guests' presence is the most important gift. If you're setting one up, see our online wedding wishing well guide.

Formal wedding invitations might include wording like: "Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for. However, if you wish to honour us with a gift, we have set up a wishing well for your convenience." This approach is respectful and gives guests the option without pressure.

Casual wedding invitations can be warmer and more personal: "Your presence is the greatest gift, but if you'd like to contribute to our wishing well, we'd be so grateful." This tone works well for relaxed, modern weddings where couples want to maintain a friendly atmosphere.

Many couples also include a line explaining why they prefer a wishing well, such as "We're lucky enough to already have everything we need for our home" or "We're saving for our honeymoon/house deposit." If you're leaning toward a trip fund, you may prefer a honeymoon fund instead.

Want more examples? Read 50 wedding wishing well wording examples.

Baby Shower Wording Tips

Baby shower wishing well wording should be warm and welcoming, reflecting the excitement of the upcoming arrival. Since baby showers are typically more casual events, the wording can be friendlier and more relaxed than wedding invitations. You can also set up a baby shower wishing well to make contributions easy.

Good examples include: "Join us to celebrate [Name]'s upcoming arrival! If you'd like to contribute to our baby shower wishing well, we'd be so grateful." For group gifts (which are popular for baby showers), you might add: "We're organising a group gift to help with baby essentials. Any amount is welcome – it's the thought that counts!"

Many expecting parents appreciate contributions toward larger items like prams, car seats, or nursery furniture, which can be expensive. Group gifts allow multiple people to contribute smaller amounts while still giving meaningful, practical gifts.

More baby shower wording: baby shower wording templates.

Teacher and Coach Group Gift Wording

Group gifts for teachers and coaches require careful wording to ensure all families feel comfortable contributing without pressure. The key is to emphasise that contributions are optional and any amount is appreciated. PocketWell works especially well for group gifting collections.

For teacher gifts, good wording might be: "We're organising a group gift for [Teacher Name] to show our appreciation for all their hard work this year. If you'd like to contribute, we've set up a wishing well. Any amount is welcome – it's the thought that counts!" If you're setting one up, see teacher gift wishing wells.

For coach gifts, similar wording works well: "Let's show [Coach Name] how much we appreciate their dedication to the team! We're collecting contributions for an end-of-season gift. Any amount is welcome!" If you're organising this, check coach gift wishing wells.

Online wishing well platforms like PocketWell make group gift coordination much easier, eliminating the need for cash handling, spreadsheets, or chasing contributions. Parents can contribute securely online, and the organiser can see who has contributed without managing physical money.

More templates: teacher gift wording and coach gift wording.

Funny vs Formal Etiquette

The tone of your wishing well wording should match your event and personal style. Formal events (traditional weddings, corporate functions) typically require more formal, respectful language. Casual events (birthday parties, casual weddings, baby showers) can use warmer, friendlier language. For examples by occasion, start with simple wishing well wording ideas.

Funny wording can work well for relaxed events and close-knit groups, but should still be respectful. Examples might include: "We've already got enough toasters to open a breakfast restaurant, so please don't bring gifts" or "Help us afford a honeymoon that doesn't involve camping in the backyard."

The most important thing is to match your wording to your event and audience. A formal corporate retirement party requires different wording than a 21st birthday party. When in doubt, err on the side of being more formal and polite.

Using PocketWell for Your Wishing Well

PocketWell makes it easy to set up a digital wishing well for any occasion. Once you create your free event page, you can share the link or QR code with guests, who can then contribute securely using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or their debit/credit card. Browse live examples on Events or learn more on the FAQ.

The wording generator includes an optional line mentioning your PocketWell wishing well: "We've set up a PocketWell wishing well for easy contributions." You can include this in your invitations or event page. You can also include QR codes on printed invitations, making it even easier for guests to access your page—see our QR code guide.

PocketWell is free for hosts, with no setup fees or subscriptions. Guests pay a small service fee plus standard payment processing fees, which are clearly displayed before payment. Hosts receive 100% of the gift amount, with secure weekly payouts to their Australian bank account. This makes it an ideal solution for weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and group gifts.

Best Practices for Wishing Well Wording

When crafting your wishing well wording, keep these best practices in mind:

  • Emphasise presence over gifts: Always mention that guests' presence is the most important gift.
  • Explain your preference: Briefly explain why you prefer a wishing well (e.g., "We already have everything we need" or "We're saving for our honeymoon").
  • Use optional language: Phrases like "if you'd like" or "should you wish" make it clear contributions are optional.
  • Match your tone: Ensure your wording matches the formality of your event and your personal style.
  • Include practical details: If using an online platform, mention how guests can contribute (link, QR code, etc.).
  • Be grateful: Always express gratitude, whether guests contribute or not.

Disclaimer: This is general wording guidance only. Feel free to customise the wording to match your personal style and event. The most important thing is to be polite, clear, and make guests feel comfortable, whether they choose to contribute or not.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about PocketWell.

Wishing Well Wording

Is it rude to ask for money at a wedding?
No, it's not rude when done politely. Many Australian couples prefer monetary gifts through wishing wells, especially if they already have household items or are saving for specific goals like a honeymoon or house deposit. The key is using polite, non-pressure wording that emphasises that guests' presence is the most important gift. Phrases like "your presence is the greatest gift" help set the right tone.
What's the best wording for "no boxed gifts"?
The best approach is to be polite and clear without being demanding. Good examples include: "We're lucky enough to already have everything we need for our home, so please don't feel you need to bring a gift" or "Your presence is the greatest gift we could ask for. However, if you'd like to contribute to our wishing well, we'd be so grateful." Avoid phrases like "no gifts" or "cash only" as they can sound demanding.
How do I phrase a teacher group gift request?
For teacher group gifts, keep it friendly and appreciative. Good wording examples: "We're organising a group gift for [Teacher Name] to show our appreciation for all their hard work this year. If you'd like to contribute, we've set up a wishing well. Any amount is welcome – it's the thought that counts!" Be clear that contributions are optional and any amount is appreciated.
Can guests contribute with Apple Pay or Google Pay?
Yes! When you create a PocketWell event page, guests can contribute using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or their debit/credit card. All payments are processed securely through Stripe. The wording generator includes an optional line mentioning your PocketWell wishing well, which guests can use to access your page and contribute easily.
Can I include a QR code on invitations?
Absolutely! PocketWell provides QR codes that you can print on invitations, place cards, or display at your event. QR codes make it easy for guests to access your wishing well page instantly. Many couples and event hosts include QR codes on their invitations alongside the wishing well wording, making it convenient for guests to contribute.
What if guests prefer to give a physical gift?
It's perfectly fine to accept both! Your wording can mention that while you have a wishing well set up, guests are welcome to give physical gifts if they prefer. However, many guests appreciate the convenience of digital contributions, especially for events like weddings where transporting gifts can be difficult. The key is to make guests feel comfortable with either option.
How much should I contribute to a wishing well?
Gift amounts vary based on your relationship to the host, the event type, and your financial circumstances. For weddings, friends typically give $100-$200, while close family may give $200-$500. For baby showers, friends usually give $30-$100. The most important thing is giving within your means – thoughtful contributions of any amount are appreciated. You can use PocketWell's gift amount calculator for personalised recommendations.
Can I customise the wording generated by the tool?
Absolutely! The generated wording is a starting point that you can customise to match your personal style and event. Feel free to adjust the tone, add personal touches, or combine elements from different templates. The tool provides guidance, but the final wording should reflect your personality and the nature of your event.

About Wishing Wells

Learn about online wishing wells and how they work

What is an online wishing well?
An online wishing well (also called a digital wishing well or virtual wishing well) is a modern platform where friends and family can contribute monetary gifts for celebrations like weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. It's a safe and secure alternative to traditional wedding registry and physical gifts.
What is a wishing well wedding in Australia?
A wishing well wedding is an Australian tradition where guests contribute monetary gifts instead of physical gifts at wedding receptions. Online wishing wells modernize this tradition, making it easier for friends and family to contribute safely and securely through digital platforms.
How does a virtual wishing well work?
Create your free wishing well, share via QR code or link, and friends and family contribute monetary gifts using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or cards. All contributions are safe and secure with instant payouts to your Australian bank account.
Can I use a digital wishing well instead of a traditional wedding registry?
Yes! Many Australian couples choose online wishing wells over traditional wedding registry options because they prefer monetary gifts to physical gifts. It's more practical for couples who already have household items or are saving for specific goals.
What's the difference between online wishing well and traditional wedding registry?
Online wishing wells collect monetary gifts that go directly to your bank account, while traditional wedding registries track physical gifts from stores. Digital wishing wells are more flexible - perfect for honeymoon funds, house deposits, or any goal. No managing physical gifts at your wedding reception.
How do digital wishing wells work for Australian weddings?
Digital wishing wells like PocketWell allow Australian couples to collect monetary wedding gifts online through a personalised event page. Guests can contribute securely from anywhere in Australia, making it a modern alternative to traditional wishing wells.
How do online wishing wells work in Australia?
Online wishing wells in Australia allow guests to contribute cash gifts via QR codes or direct links. Contributions are processed securely through Australian banks and transferred instantly to your account with no fees for hosts. Perfect for weddings, birthdays, and celebrations.

Getting Started

Everything you need to begin using PocketWell

What is PocketWell?
PocketWell is a simple, secure platform that lets you create a personalised event page for weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and more. Guests can send monetary gifts and messages directly through your page no physical gifts, no hassle.
How does PocketWell work?
You create a free event page, share your unique link with guests, and start receiving monetary gifts. Guests contribute securely using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or their debit or credit card. Gifts appear in your dashboard, and payouts are automatically sent to your bank account on a weekly schedule.
Can I create multiple event pages on PocketWell?
Yes, you can create multiple event pages under one account for different occasions. Each event page has its own unique link and can be fully customised to suit your celebration.
Can I use PocketWell for baby showers and birthdays?
Yes. PocketWell is perfect for baby showers, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, and any celebration. You can create multiple event pages, each tailored to a different occasion.
Is PocketWell available throughout Australia?
Yes! PocketWell serves all of Australia. Whether your event is in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, or anywhere else, guests can contribute securely from any location around the world.
Are digital gift collections popular with Australian guests?
Absolutely! Australian guests love the convenience of contributing via their phones using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or card payments. Digital wishing wells are especially popular for interstate guests and during times when contactless options are preferred.

Pricing & Fees

Transparent pricing with no hidden costs

How much does it cost to use PocketWell?
It's completely free for hosts, with no setup fees, no monthly subscriptions, and no hidden costs. When guests send gifts, they pay a small 3.5% service fee plus standard payment processing fees. Hosts receive 100% of every gift, and all fees are clearly shown to guests before payment.
Why does PocketWell charge a service fee?
The service fee helps cover the cost of running PocketWell, including secure payment infrastructure, hosting, customer support, and ongoing platform improvements. This allows us to keep the service free for hosts.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. All fees are displayed transparently to guests before payment is completed. Hosts can also view a clear fee breakdown in their dashboard, with no unexpected charges.
What's the difference between PocketWell and other online wishing wells?
PocketWell stands out by offering no fees for hosts, secure Stripe-powered payments, weekly Tuesday payouts, and elegant, customisable event pages. Hosts keep 100% of gifts received, while guests pay a small 3.5% service fee.

Payments & Payouts

How you receive your gifts and funds

Do I need to link a bank account?
You don't need to link a bank account to create or share an event page. When you're ready to receive payouts, you'll complete a quick, guided setup powered by Stripe to securely connect your bank account.
How do payouts work?
Payouts are automatic and sent weekly on Tuesdays. Once your bank account is connected through Stripe, available funds are transferred directly to your nominated bank account. Most transfers arrive within 1–2 business days, depending on your bank.
Why does my balance say 'Available to pay out soon'?
This means Stripe is still processing and clearing recent payments. Once the processing period is complete, the funds move to 'Available' and will be included in the next scheduled Tuesday payout.
How long does it take to receive my payout?
Payouts are sent weekly on Tuesdays. After Stripe sends the payout, it typically arrives in your bank account within 1–2 business days, depending on your bank. Your first payout may take longer (up to 5–7 business days) while Stripe completes a one-time account verification.
Does PocketWell hold my money?
No. PocketWell does not hold or store your funds. Payments are processed by Stripe, and payouts are sent to your bank account on the weekly Tuesday payout schedule once funds are available.
Who handles payments and payouts?
All payments and payouts are handled securely by Stripe, a global payment platform trusted by millions of businesses. PocketWell never stores or has access to your bank details.
What happens if I change my bank account details?
You can update your bank account details at any time in your dashboard. You'll be guided through a secure Stripe update process so future payouts are sent to your new nominated bank account.

Security & Setup

Safe and secure platform information

Is PocketWell safe to use?
Yes. PocketWell uses industry-standard security practices, with all payments encrypted and processed securely through Stripe. Your personal and financial information is protected at all times.
Are virtual wishing wells safe and secure?
Extremely secure. Online wishing wells use bank-grade encryption and comply with Australian financial regulations. All monetary gifts from friends and family are processed through secure payment gateways with fraud protection included.
How secure are online gift collections in Australia?
Extremely secure. We use bank-grade encryption and comply with Australian financial regulations including PCI DSS standards. All transactions are processed through secure payment gateways used by major Australian banks.
Is the setup complicated?
No. The setup is guided step by step and usually takes only a few minutes. Stripe handles the process securely, and you only need to complete it once.
Is the setup secure?
Yes. The setup is powered by Stripe, a leading global payment processor that handles security and compliance. Your bank details are never stored on our servers.

Features & Support

Additional features and assistance

Can guests leave messages with their gifts?
Yes. Guests can include personal messages with their monetary gifts, making each contribution more meaningful and memorable for the host.
Can I export the data of gifts received?
Yes, you can download a detailed report of all gifts and messages from your event dashboard, making it easy to keep records or say thank you to guests.