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Weddings

A Guide to Wedding Gift List Etiquette

Are you trying to decide how to ask for gifts at your wedding? Don't panic, we've put together the ultimate guide

If you are starting to think about your wedding gift list but you’re not too sure what the etiquette is surrounding gift lists then the team at Prezola – the UK’s favourite wedding gift list – are here to guide you through it:

“We hear it time and time again that your wedding is all about you and what you want. It’s essential to make sure the big day is reflective of you and your partner, but time to time, it’s a good idea to put yourselves in the shoes of your guests to know their thought process.

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Find out more about gift lists

“With wedding gift lists for example, you’ll want to know what your guests think so you end up with everything you ever dreamed of for your newlywed home.

“It’s in our ‘British’ nature, we find it difficult to ask for anything, thinking we might look too presumptuous. The flip side of this coin is that most wedding guests wouldn’t dream of attending a wedding without having purchased a gift, so it’s definitely good to have one so they know what to buy.

“With many couples already living together before they get engaged, wedding gift lists today are less about “setting up home” and more about guests commemorating your marriage with a gift that you’ll keep forever – creating your own heirlooms to pass down for generations.

“It’s also still a popular theme for couples to think about entertaining house guests with dinnerware, music and outside accessories such as string lights and barbecues.

“With such a wide variety of gift list options available couples can create lists that are a true reflection of their personalities and style, choosing gorgeous gifts from all of their favourite shops. It’s also far more acceptable to ask guests to make a contribution to big ticket items such as the perfect honeymoon or a deposit for your first home. As long as it’s personal, important to you and helps set you on your way then guests are usually more than happy to help.

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“Each guest has their own budget when it comes to weddings. Depending on your relationship, some people are happy to splash the cash to celebrate while others may be a bit more reserved due to financial circumstances.

“It’s always a good idea to make sure your gift list is filled with items both affordable and expensive. Many guests like to buy more than one present also so cheaper price points may mean more presents for you! On average, guests will spend around £74 on a gift so keep this in mind when adding gifts to your list. That said, your parents may want to buy you something really special like a KitchenAid so don’t be afraid to add the things you really want.

“With Prezola, there’s over 50,000 items from 500 top brands such as The White Company, KitchenAid, Le Creuset and Sonos to choose from – so there’s definitely something for everyone! Here’s a few tips on how to create the perfect gift list while keeping acceptable etiquette.”

Actually have a gift list

It can be frustrating for guests when you don’t have a gift list because they’ll almost certainly buy a gift anyway and list just makes that whole process easier.

Add things you wouldn’t ordinarily buy for yourself

Think less about what you ‘need’ and more about what you’d ‘love’. Wedding gifts should be a luxury that you might not buy yourself.

Choose Items That You Know Your Guests Will Want to Buy

Show your personal style with choices that reflect the two of you as a couple. Guests will love getting a present that is “so them!”

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Cash

Cash towards something important is perfectly acceptable, as long as guests know what they’re helping you to achieve. Even if it is a honeymoon to die for!

Use a Gift List Service That Suits Yours and Your Guests Needs

5. Use a gift list service that keeps track of who gave what so it’s easy when it comes to those very important thank you notes
Prezola is the UK’s favourite wedding gift list, created for style-savvy couples who want choice, flexibility and great service. Find out more about Prezola.