10 questions to ask your gift list supplier
Putting together a gift list can be a bewildering experience if you’ve never done it before. Consider these 10 top tips for knowing what to ask...
Start early. The norm is about 12 weeks before the big day, but if you can get your list done and dusted before that, you'll save the stress of trying to complete it before you can send out your invites.
How many items should I put on my list and can I add more?It's always best to put down as many as possible in a wide range of price ranges so there's something for everyone no matter how much they have to spend. People are more generous than you might think but you don't want to push people into spending more than they planned. Some gift list suppliers will let you add extra things but check before you sign up.
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 day is quite normal and gives tardy guests the chance to buy you a gift if they've haven't been organised enough to do it before the wedding.
Can I compile my list online?More and more companies are allowing you to do this and it makes life mush easier if you're a super-busy bride-to-be. Compiling your list online also stops the temptation of zapping things that catch your eye as you wander round the store that you don't really need.
How do guests buy something off the list?Consider how easy it's going to be for your guests. If they are spread all over the country, it's much easier if they can order by phone, online or even in person from one place. Only you know what will be most convenient for you.
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.
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.
Can I swap items around once the list is closed?This is possible with department stores but not with some specialist companies so it might influence where you decide to register.
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).
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.
