Gift list services—what to expect

Where can I have my wedding gifts list?
Nearly all big department stores offer a wedding gifts list service, as do many specialist shops. Nowadays, there are also wedding gifts list companies that deal with lots of different suppliers and give you an even larger choice of possible pressies.

How do wedding gifts lists work?
They all operate on a similar basis: the bride and groom go round the store or showroom and make a selection of items, which are then put into list form on a computer. Wedding guests then phone up or order pieces from the wedding gifts list over the internet. The bride and groom are sent regular updates detailing who has purchased what from the wedding gifts list.

When should I set it up?
It's practical to set up your wedding gifts list well before the wedding, so it's all complete and operational by the time the invitations are sent out.

What sort of things can I put on the list?
Traditionally, the idea behind a wedding gifts list is that it helps couples set up home together, so the backbone of a list tends to be household basics such as linen, china, cutlery and glassware. Make sure your wedding gifts list covers a wide price range, so that there are items suitable for every budget.

How many items should I put on the wedding gifts list?
Don't make your list too long, or you'll run the risk of ending up with incomplete sets of tableware or bed linen.

How do I let people know about the wedding gifts list?
Most stores provide you with little cards giving details of where a list is held for you to slip in with the wedding invitations.

My mum says it's not "done" to include information about the wedding gift list with the invites. Is she right?
Traditionally, it's not considered good etiquette to enclose wedding gifts list details with the wedding invitations, but in reality most people do nowadays. If you're really averse to the idea, you can give the information to close friends and family and the wedding party and ask them to spread the word.

How do I know who's bought what?
Most wedding gifts lists automatically notify you when a wedding present has been purchased. If not, you can review the wedding gifts list every few weeks and more often in the run-up to the big day. This will help you keep up with writing thank-you notes...