Yahoo News Gift lists and wedding registry sites: which is the best for you?
If the prospect of your wedding day isn't exciting enough, then maybe the thought of creating your gift list will get you going.
Traditionally couples would register for all the household items needed when first setting up home together. Everything from sheets to spoons could be found alongside china dinner sets and teapots. These days, the basic idea is the same, but it comes in all sorts of shapes and styles, not least because couples are often already cohabiting by the time they walk down the aisle.
If you're wondering why you should create a gift list, then it's worth noting that it's for solely selfish reasons (although admittedly the idea of going around a department store pointing at everything you like is pretty thrilling.) A gift registry makes it easy for your guests to pick something they know you actually want; they'll be safe in the knowledge that they're not buying you something that six other guests at your wedding have also bought you.
And even if you don't need a new juicer, you can still create a gift list. Check out the different options below and just remember a few rules:
Try to pick things that will be useful in your joint future and make sure you both love every piece.
Don't be shy when making a long list. Pick plenty of products at a range of prices so your friends and family have lots to choose from.
If there are a few products which are very expensive but which you really love, then pick a registry that allows for group gifting. This way more than one guest can club together to buy you the high ticket item.
Now, get shopping.
1. John Lewis
Let's start with a classic. This stalwart of the British high street is probably the first place that comes to mind when the words 'gift list' are uttered. Reliable, not flashy and Never Knowingly Undersold, you'll find a huge range of options to help you set up home. From bedding to pans and everything in between, there's a reason why John Lewis is one of the most popular gift registries in the UK. And a major benefit is being able to go into a store and actually see the products before you add them to your list. You'll be given a special 'zapper' (technical term) to scan the things you want and you'll even be offered a slice of cake and a hot drink on the house, for when you need a break from the shopping.
2. The Wedding Shop
If you want endless choice, no restrictions and your pick from some gorgeous high end brands, then The Wedding Shop could be the list for you. Buyers travel all over the world sourcing new and interesting products and you can swap things in and out if you change your mind. The service is completely free to you and your guests and with showrooms in London, Dublin and Edinburgh you can view the items in the real world too. And it's not just practical homewares here; you can set up funds for your honeymoon or for experiences that friends and family can contribute to if they wish.
3. Next
There is no rule that says wedding gift registries should be high end. If you're keen to keep costs down for your guests then consider setting up your gift list with Next. This high street brand covers off kitchen, bedroom and electricals as well as the clothes it's better known for. Setting up your list online couldn't be easier. Enter a few basic details and then go wild shopping the site. The downside is you can only select products from the Next collection and there's no option for group gifting.
4. Wedding Present Company
The Wedding Present Company has a showroom in London for you to browse and once you've picked out your dream pieces, you can set up either a Fixed or Flexible list. Fixed means you know exactly what you want and the items will be ordered into the warehouse as soon as one of your guests buys them. A Flexible list offers you the chance to assess it after your wedding and make any swaps or changes. Brands available include The White Company, Jo Malone, Le Creuset and Aga, so you're pretty much covered.
5. Virgin Holidays
The reality is that most couples who get married these days have already been living together for some time, so the need for household appliances and towels isn't quite so urgent. Add to that the fact the average cost of a wedding in the UK is now £27,000, and it's no surprise many brides and grooms prefer to set up a honeymoon fund instead of a traditional gift list. While some registries offer you the chance to have a holiday pool alongside your main list, at Virgin Holidays it's all about your honeymoon. Book your trip directly with Virgin and then create the gift list online. You can then send the link to friends and family or Virgin will provide cards to be sent out with your invitations. Now all you'll need to do is plan what you're going to pack.
6. Prezola
Voted the Best Gift List at the 2018 UK Wedding Awards, Prezola has everything you'll need as a newly married couple. With over 50,000 items from 500 brands, including Soho Home, Nespresso, Smeg and Graham and Green, you really will be the most stylish newlyweds around. But Prezola also offers you the chance to set up cash, honeymoon and charity funds alongside your favourite products, so guests can contribute to either and do it discreetly. And you can even add champagne, wine and spirits to your list, ensuring you can keep celebrating long after the wedding is over.
7. Patchwork
Patchwork is a great option for those couples who only want to ask for money. But ask nicely. It allows you to set up a honeymoon fund, for example, but within it specify the different options available for guests to pay for. So they can pay for one night in your hotel, a romantic dinner on the beach, a spa treatment or even just a couple of cocktails. This way they at least get to know exactly what their money is going towards. But the bespoke benefits of Patchwork don't stop there. Why not ask for the gift of fresh flowers for a year? Or membership of the National Trust, or even your favourite music venue? So much better than a food processor.
8. Amazon
If you've already got an Amazon Prime trigger finger then why not put it to good use on your wedding gift list? As you'll already be aware you can buy pretty much anything from the online retailer so what its wedding registry lacks in elegance, it makes up for in convenience. You won't be able to organise group gifting but the sheer range of products will ensure that there's a present for every budget.
9. Oxfam and Action Aid
Have you already got everything you need? Do you feel uncomfortable asking for money? Or do you just want to pay it forward? If that's the case then why not give yourself the gift of giving with a charity gift list? With Oxfam, you set up your registry online and then, instead of adding pans and pillowcases, your guests choose to pay for a pair of goats that will help a family living in poverty, shelter for a refugee or even bee keeping equipment. Action Aid offers a similar service where you can register for dignity and disease prevention kits. Any money raised in your name will contribute towards the welfare of women and girls living in the world's poorest places. Now you can really feel good about your big day.
