Present and correct

How to compile your wedding gift list

THERE are no hard and fast rules governing what you should ask for when putting together your wedding gift list. Anything can be added, from the practical to the funny, old or new, valuable or cheap.

Get your fiancé involved so you can begin to build a picture of the colours and designs you both like. Think about your future lifestyle together; will there be a lot of formal or informal entertaining?

Divide your list into practical and decorative items, making a list of the things you both already have and will need. Aim for a list that gives the widest possible choice and price range. If a major item such as a dinner service is on the list, make it clear that you're are happy to receive only one cup and saucer from the range.

Finally, try not to make your list too long. This will ensure that the items you really want are chosen first. If you are organising the list yourself, first draw up a master list of items stating their make, colour, price and where they can be bought.

Don't be embarrassed to be specific, especially if you want to coordinate different items. Make copies and circulate them among your friends and family, asking them to check with you before they make their choice to avoid duplication.

Alternatively, you can enlist the help of your mother or best man to co-ordinate events. Keep a note of who has promised to give what, as this will be a useful source of reference when it comes to writing 'thank you' letters.

If you decide to place your wedding list with a shop, it will save time if you think about the kinds of things you want before hitting the shop floor. The service is free, and you will find that most stores prefer you to place your list with them eight to 10 weeks before the wedding.

You and your fiancé simply wander around the shop making a note of the items you want. A master copy of the list is held by the store and another is sent on to you. Friends and relatives can either visit or telephone (if paying by credit card) the store where your list is held to make their choice.

There will always be friends and family who object to being directed by a wedding gift list, preferring to make their own choice. In such cases it is best to leave them to their own devices.

However, do make sure that they see a copy of the list first. This will avoid duplication, and if you are using a store to organise your list do remember to inform them, so they can add it to their list has having been bought.

All gifts should be sent to the bride's home or the address she is living at before the wedding. Many guests will want to deliver their present personally at the reception, so remember to have your bridesmaids or best man on stand-by to ensure that they are taken care of.