Wedding Gifts
When it comes to wedding gifts, many people feel too pushy handing out a list and asking for presents, but then on the other hand, guests can be insulted if you don’t. Do not be embarrassed by offering your list, most people like to know they are providing you with something useful and giving you a helping hand when you start off your married life together. Providing favours for your gusts is like a little thank you for their efforts.
It is usually a good idea to have a list and if people ask, give let them see it, or send it to them but not to force it upon them. Some people would rather get a more personal and unique gift of there own choice. Generally there are tree types of gift lists which people use:
Traditional list
This is sent only to those who ask for it and includes all details of the products requested i.e. manufacturer, model and colour. Once a gift has been bought from the list, the item they bought is crossed off and the list returned, ready to be given to the next guest. It is usually the mother of the bride who does the rounds with the list.
Online list
This list can be made at home, either created online or mailed to a department store that sets one up for you. This is convenient as it means the guests can go online, see the gift and order and pay for it all from their own sofa.
Store gift lists
These are created in cooperation with a large home ware store i.e. house of Frasier or debanhams. The lists are made with the stores stock, and the guests can then call, visit, or go online and order from your list. As items are purchased from the list, the store takes them off. After the wedding the store then sends you a list of who got you what, so you can see who to send thank-you cards to.
What items you wish to have on your list will largely depend on what stage on your life you are at.
If you are young and you are just staring out in life, you will need all the basics for your marital home like pots and pans and other culinary equipment.
If you are already living in your own place, you will already have the traditional gifts and so may opt for something a little more luxurious like garden furniture or ornamental products.
If this is not your first wedding, and you are the more mature couple, your home will be complete of all the usual gift ideas so you may go for a themed list and ask for exotic wines or food, which you wouldn’t usually afford, or just wouldn’t buy. Another upcoming idea is asking the guests to contribute to a honeymoon fund.
Here are a few tips on making you gift list:
Make the list at least 3 months before the wedding to ensure people have plenty of time to make a decision and purchase it.
You should include a large variety of items on the list to unsure you cater for everybody’s tastes and budgets.
It is a good idea to keep a list of who got you what to help with thank-you letters later.
If you are using a department store list, it is best to get in there early as they are in great demand, especially if it is to be a summer wedding.
Insurance for your gifts may be the last thing on your mind but it can make such a difference if the worst should happen.
