Even money can be meaningful

I was invited to an engagement party on the weekend, and the couple kindly requested contributing to their "wishing well" in lieu of traditional gifts.

By default, I set off to the shops to buy a generic engagement card and withdraw some money from the bank to slip into it. However, a little voice in my head nudged me: "Can't you sprinkle a little more magic?"

After all, every gift (yes, even boring money!!!) is a tiny golden chance to paint someone's world in happier hues – a dollop of joy, a splash of meaning, or a rainbow of heartfelt words.

So, I set out on a mission to dress up my gift of cash in a suit of charm with a bowtie of thoughtfulness.

1. I crafted a cute little 16-page paperback book using Canva.

2. The money got a makeover. Split up into smaller denominations, each became a part of the story.

3. I wrote well-wishes to the couple tied to each dollar amount.

4. Each spread showcased the cash on one side with its corresponding note on the opposite page.

5. A quick print job later, my ‘money talks’ book was ready for its debut!

6. I dropped the treasure into their wishing well, content that my cash gift was no longer just a few notes and coins, but a sweet little booklet of memories and love.

This experience served as a good reminder to me that even the humble buck can wear a million-dollar shine when dressed up a bit! At the very least, it can stand out as something a little bit special in a wishing well typically filled with commonplace cards and envelopes.

Here are the coins/notes and wishes I included:

ONE: "We hope your love is like this coin – singular and precious – always. Here’s to many one-derful years together."

TWO: "Here's to a couple who proves that great value comes in pairs. May your bond double in strength and awesomeness."

FIVE: "Here’s to five-star adventures, and a lifetime of high-fives for the amazing things you’ll accomplish together."

TEN: "Here’s to a ten out of ten couple. May your love compound and grow richer every year."

TWENTY: "Good job capping off your roaring twenties with the best gift ever: Each other."

FIFTY: "Wishing you 50+ years of love together, filled with countless happy memories and adventures."

ONE-HUNDRED: "Here's to a love that scores a perfect 100! We hope your journey is a centennial celebration of joy and companionship!"

If you try it and love it, post your comments below or snap a picture and share it with me on Instagram @wrappedinmeaning and by using the hashtag #WrappedInMeaning.