Here are the questions and concerns that we regularly hear at The Homestore and some helpful advice and tips.

Common concerns from the couple

I feel awkward about creating a wedding list. It takes the spontaneity out of gift giving.

A wedding list is really just a helpful guide of things you need and would love to own. Gift giving is becoming harder as couples marry later in life and have often accumulated many of the things that are traditionally given as wedding gifts. If some guests still want to choose a surprise gift at least they have a guide of what you need and your tastes. Most guests we talk to love wedding lists because they would rather spend the money on something you really want.

Tip: A good tip when creating your wedding list is to choose a large range of products and prices. This gives guests a wide selection of items at different prices and it also means there is always a good selection even if some items are out of stock.

  
I really want new utensils but will people buy these for a gift?

Our advice to is put everything you would like on your wedding list. There is still some guest resistance to buying what we would term more practical items, but that is changing. A wedding list is an opportunity to replace all those old utensils, kitchenware and homeware items that you got when you were flatting, but cannot afford to replace. Our staff are also good at explaining to guests that these really are things you would like to receive.

We really need a new set of knives or a toaster but the one we want is far too expensive.

We advise you to include items that you really want but that you think might be too expensive. It is part of our job to talk to guests and often you will find that guests will either group together to buy something you really love or will buy gift vouchers to go towards it.

What if people buy us something we don't want or duplication occurs?

Duplications should not occur as we mark items off the list as they are purchased. If a guest has bought the same item elsewhere or purchased it without telling us it is for the list, we will gladly exchange it, providing it has not been used and is in its original packaging. Note: There is also a 3 month limit on returning gifts from the wedding.

Common concerns from guests

I don't feel comfortable buying a gift off the list, they will know how much I spent!!

Some people are concerned about the fact the couple will know how much they have spent on the gift. In our experience, the couple are so thrilled they are getting something they will use and like, they don't care how much you spend. It is much better than buying them something they don't like and having them return it or telling you it got broken!!

I don't want to take the gift with me to the wedding. Do you deliver?

As part of the service, we can organise with the couple to hold gifts at the store and have them delivered* before or after the wedding. This means that you don't have to carry the present around leaving you free to just enjoy the day (secure in the knowledge that they will receive the present beautifully gift wrapped and with a card attached.)

*Small charge involved if couriered

Other tips:

• We suggest you create your list about 3 months before the wedding or when you send out your invites so you can include an insert informing guests you have a gift list with us.
• If you create your list a long way in advance, monitor your list and check with the shop whether other items have arrived in.