Wedding gift lists are the practical and fun way to make sure you get what you want and your guests have plenty of gift ideas. There are several different types of list, so follow our guide to work out which one will best suit you.
Traditional lists... the old fashioned way
A traditional list involves you compiling your own list and distributing it to those who ask about it. You should include the make, model and colour of all items. When your guests select a gift, the list is returned with the item crossed off. You need to allow 2-3 months before the wedding to follow this tradition so that everyone has time to see the list. The Bride's mother is usually in charge of the list and circulates it upon the guest's request.
Pros: A really personal touch and you can choose items from different stores.
Cons: It is time management heavy and somewhat relies on your guests to be efficient and send the list back.
Department store gift lists... the hard work done for you
Stores like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and House of Fraser provide a wedding list service, where you make up your list from their stock by browsing the store for several hours and choosing what you want. The store manages your list so that when your guests phone, buy online or visit, the item chosen is removed from your list. After your wedding, the store will send you a list of who has purchased what and deliver your goods.
Pros: Easy - apart from the tedious five-hour 'browse' session.
Cons: Limited to one store unless you had separate lists at different stores - but then time heavy!
Online gift lists
Online gift lists, are an easy alternative. You can even compile your wedding list online, saving you the time of browsing around a store, although it is a good idea to see the items you are thinking of requesting. Some companies, such as The Wedding List Company at GTC or Wedding List Services have showrooms you can visit and select your gifts and then they handle the list and delivery. Your guests can then browse and buy off your list online and you can check it online to see who has bought what.
Pros: A more personal approach, you get to know the staff quite well and they usually let you trade items to make up sets of plates etc.
Cons: A smaller selection.
And then for getting the gifts:
Gift list companies and department stores usually have a delivery service, but check if your gifts are delivered to you after your wedding in one grouped delivery, or sent as they are ordered. Some guests will probably still bring gifts 'off list' to your wedding. It's a good idea to arrange a suitable and secure area at your reception to keep them in. Also, think about your insurance. Will your home contents cover the presents once they are delivered? Will your wedding insurance cover them at the wedding venue?
How to make the most of your wedding list:
The ideal time to make your list is about 3 months before the wedding.
Allow yourself enough time so that it is an enjoyable walk around the store when you make your list. Debenhams recommend making an appointment for between 1.5 and 2 hours.
How much to list is often a concern:
Nobody wants to appear greedy, but if you do not put enough gifts on your list, guests can be disappointed when they try to buy you something.
As a guide you should aim to have a list with a value of £1,200 - £1,500. If you have more than 50 guests then aim for £1,800, and over a hundred guests means you should be looking for around £2,500 to ensure that your guests have enough choice.
Try to make sure you have a wide selection of prices. Having a few high priced gifts is a good idea for close friends and family, or if a group of people want to club together to buy a larger present. Equally, having a choice of gifts under say £20, means that there is something for everyone.
When choosing your china range, make sure you include as full a selection as possible. Eight piece settings rather than six means you have enough plates for when all friends or family come to visit. It is also the ideal time to make sure you have all the accessories to match. From salad bowls and vegetable dishes to napkins and coasters, you'll find that having the 'full set' makes all the difference.
Always include a gift card or gift vouchers on your list if you are using a department store. You can add your own message informing guests what you are saving up for. However well you have made your list; some guests are more comfortable giving you money. A gift card or voucher means your guests can still give you something personal, but leave you to make the final choice. It is an ideal solution for guests who can't easily get into a store and allows them to add money to your list in a safe, secure and convenient way.
And don't forget:
Make sure you regularly check and manage your list online, and add to the quantities if items are running low.
In the end, you’ll be receiving gifts from your loved ones, so be sure to keep a close record of who has bought what and do your Thank You letters quickly after the wedding. A little personal note will be very appreciated to all who purchased you a gift.
