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etting married and buying a first home are two significant milestones that can be costly, with the average wedding costing $36,000 and the average home down payment reaching $55,500. In a market where baby boomers have an advantage and rising interest rates make homebuying more challenging for young couples, some are opting to skip big weddings and put their money towards their home down payment instead.

    A growing number of engaged couples are asking guests for cash gifts specifically for their home down payments, with 41% of couples surveyed by Zola requesting this in 2025. According to Emily Forrest, Zola's spokesperson, society has shifted towards giving cash gifts, especially when the recipient knows what it's going towards.

    Financial experts advise couples to be on the same page financially before getting married and buying a home. Janelle Sallenave, chief spending officer at Chime, recommends discussing income, debts, spending habits, retirement savings, and overall goals with your partner. She also suggests setting clear roles and regularly checking in with each other to avoid problems down the line.

    When asking for cash gifts, couples should be thoughtful about how they approach their guests. Sallenave advises providing details about where the money is going and sending personalized thank-you notes. It's also essential to have proper documentation, such as gift letters signed by donors, to ensure a smooth mortgage process.

    Different mortgages have varying rules regarding gift funds, so it's crucial to understand these requirements before applying for a loan. Rulon Washington, Wells Fargo's executive director of mortgage sustainability, recommends connecting with a lender early and discussing how to save for the down payment. He also suggests opening a dedicated savings or checking account for the down payment and keeping the lender informed throughout the process.