Putting together a gift list can be a bewildering experience if you’ve never done it before. If you know what to ask you’re bound to feel more comfortable.
1. When should I register? As early as possible - particularly if you're using a department store where spaces get booked up quickly. Some will let you register early online but otherwise 12 weeks is the norm.
2. How many items should I put on my list? It's always best to put down as many as possible. People are more generous than you might think and you don't want to run out!
3. Can I add more items at a later date? It's worth checking at the beginning. Some gift list suppliers will let you add extra things, some will even highlight when you are getting low.
4. When will my list close? Specialist gift list companies will only order items from your list once it's closed so you need to know in advance. Six weeks after the wedding is quite normal.
5. Can I compile my list online? More and more companies are allowing you to do this. It's really helpful if you're busy during the day and need to work on your list at 11 o'clock at night!
6. How do guests buy something off the list? If your guests are spread all over the country it's much easier if they can order by phone, online or even in person. Only you know what will be most convenient for you.
7. Can guests club together to buy bigger items? Not all suppliers will let you do this. If you desperately need a sofa and want money towards it, it might be worth thinking of a list where guests can "pledge" money instead of buying gifts.
8. Can guests include a message with gifts? Some companies and most of the wedding list websites allow you to do this, but not all. You'll need to decide how important this is to you.
9. Do you supply cards for us to include with our invites? This is important because being able to send all the information at once cuts down on postage and also makes you seem ultra-efficient!
10. Can I swap items around once the list is closed? This is possible with department stores but not with specialist companies so it might influence where you decide to register.
11. Do you charge for delivery? Many don't if the deliveries are local, but others charge each guest. It's also worth checking if they deliver all in one go or regularly (once a week, for example).
12. Do you gift-wrap? Most will deliver gifts either unwrapped or in plain, brown paper. If they do offering gift-wrapping there will probably be a charge.
