Tag: Gifts

Patchwork’s Top 10 Wedding Gift Ideas

Whether you’re planning to ask for the items you might expect from a traditional wedding gift list, charitable donations or cash contributions (the most popular option for couples right now), just remember – whatever you do, don’t say, “No gifts!”

(Unless you’re going for the world record for the biggest collection of salad servers. In which case, you do you!)

We promise, your guests will want to treat you! It’s your wedding day, after all. So help them be sure they’re giving you something that’ll make you both happy, whether that’s helping you go on the honeymoon of a lifetime, put in that brand new kitchen you’ve been dreaming about or enjoy a year of date nights together. With a cash gift registry, you can ask for literally anything – and you have the freedom to spend your money when, where and how you want!

To help you get started, we asked the team over at Patchwork Gift Registry for their expert insight into the latest wedding gift trends and what they’re expecting couples to ask for in 2022/23.

Patchwork Gift Registry's template for "A Year of Dates" wedding gift list

1) It’s Date Night!

One of the biggest trends we saw in wedding gifting last year was couples asking guests to chip in for a “year of dates” instead of a traditional honeymoon – and it’s set to continue throughout 2022/23. With travel remaining tricky, many newlyweds are after some R&R a little closer to home. You might go for dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, have a laugh at a comedy night, organise bike hire for a day’s cycling in the country or get away from it all for a night at a spa hotel. Whatever you do, this is the wedding gift that keeps giving for a whole year!

Setting up a cash gift list for date nights gives you flexibility in when, where and how you spend your wedding gift money. Not to mention, you’ll get to enjoy some super special time together thanks to the love of your friends and family!

Patchwork Gift Registry's template for "A Home of Our Own" wedding gift list

2) Home Sweet Home

While more and more couples are already living together when they tie the knot, many are still dreaming of owning their first home together. Every penny counts when it comes to saving up for the deposit on a first home – so why not let your guests help out?

Let your guests know your plans and what it would mean to have their support. You might want to break down your cash registry into smaller chunks so your loved ones can fund something specific: £500 towards the roof, £200 on the front door, £20 for a new door knocker…

You’ll have the keys in no time – and once you do, you can invite them all round for dinner so they can admire (and enjoy!) their gift too!

3) A Few of Our Favourite Things

Another trend popular among couples keen to stay closer to home is a gift list made up of all their favourite things to do together. What’s especially great about this option is everything on the list can be enjoyed anywhere, at any time. Plus, they’re the things we don’t usually treat ourselves to… and your wedding is the perfect time to indulge!

What are some of our top ideas for a “favourite things” gift registry? We love a subscription box, whether that’s for craft beer, local cheese, organic veg or beautiful flowers. You could also ask for a couple’s massage, a “spa at home” experience or even personal training sessions. Or, if you’re a couple with kids, there’s always the greatest luxury of all – babysitting!

Patchwork Gift Registry's template for "Our Roof Garden" wedding gift list

4) Get Green Fingered!

Why not make your dreams of a gorgeous garden come true? Instead of traditional gifts, consider asking your guests to give you plants, trees or bulbs to plant and enjoy for years to come.

To make things extra special, guests could choose plants that contain their name, hold a special meaning for them or are in some way a reminder of your relationship. Another idea we love is for guests to chip in for an entertaining area in your outside space. You could add options for guests to help fund garden furniture, a barbecue, a hammock or a fire pit. Or ask for donations of help in the garden from your more green-fingered friends for a gift list that isn’t just about physical gifts but sharing time and skills too!

5) Home and Away

If you can’t decide between a much-needed honeymoon and treating yourselves to some new homeware, why not combine the two in a “home and away” gift list? Give guests the option to choose between contributing to your far-flung adventures or buying you some fluffy new towels – or both, of course!

Opting for a combination of honeymoon and homeware is perfect for couples who aren’t sure when they’ll be able to get away for a honeymoon – but would love some home comforts while they plan!

6) The Wedding Day!

So you really do have it all? Well, if you’ve got everything you need and the only thing you want is to finally tie the knot, a “friend-funded” wedding could be the perfect solution!

Recent events have caused many couples to postpone their weddings once, twice or even more. With deposits lost or other unexpected financial difficulties, some couples have struggled to get their celebrations back on track. But there’s good news! We’ve seen thoughtful friends and family come together to set up wedding registries where the wedding day itself is the gift.

Guests might chip in towards venue hire, pay the cost of catering, help fund the photographer or even buy the wedding cake! This is a truly special gift that allows couples to have the day they’ve been dreaming of – while involving everyone in a really meaningful way. It’s a gift that can be enjoyed by everyone and a chance to come together to create memories that will last forever.

Patchwork Gift Registry's template for "National Trust Lifetime Membership" wedding gift list

7) A Lifetime Membership

This is a gift that literally lasts a lifetime – and does good too! National Trust or English Heritage membership is a gift that keeps giving, offering you the chance to enjoy endless days out together. It’s your ticket to a lifetime filled with stately homes, fairytale castles, country garden strolls and cream teas! And you’ll be helping protect unforgettable places for future generations – so you and your guests can feel extra good about this zero-waste, eco-friendly gift.

At £2130 for an English Heritage lifetime membership and £2160 for a National Trust lifetime membership (both for two people), these are easily doable with a cash gift registry, allowing your friends and family to chip in towards the membership. You might even have some money left over for some new walking boots… and a lifetime supply of tea and cake!

Patchwork Gift Registry's template for "Our Wedding Art Fund" wedding gift list

8) Get Artsy

If you’re not short of stuff but still want to add something special to your home, you might like this idea! Invite your loved ones to join forces to fund a unique painting or sculpture by your favourite artist.

Art is timeless, and this is a gift that will last forever and stay with you always. In years to come, you’ll be able to look at your beautiful artwork and think of the family and friends who made it happen, no matter where you are. It’s a wonderful way to remember the day you all spent together, celebrating your marriage.

9) Go Green

Over the past few years, we’ve definitely seen a trend for couples wanting more eco-friendly, sustainable and pre-loved vintage gifts. But these aren’t so easy to put on a traditional gift list. Instead, a cash wedding registry is the best way to make sure you have the freedom and flexibility to source the one-of-a-kind pieces you’ve got your heart set on.

From ethically-sourced furnishing fabrics to reclaimed wooden future and recycled cotton bedlinens to antique treasures, the options are endless. A cash gift list lets you collect the money, then enjoy some sustainable shopping at your local flea market or vintage store. Plus, you’ll be saving on transportation costs and packaging too – so it’s an even greener way to gift!

Patchwork Gift Registry's template for "Doing up the kitchen fund" wedding gift list

10) The Home Makeover

A popular alternative this year to registries for honeymoons or “stuff” is the home makeover registry. Whether it’s the bathroom reno of your dreams or a quick kitchen refresh, why not get your family and friends to contribute? They can chip in for everything from the taps to the tiles (and even the plumber!). Once you’ve collected their contributions, you’ll have your budget and you can get going designing and planning your home updates. Then, when your project is complete, invite everyone around to admire their gift!

One last thing! Whatever you ask your guests to treat you to, remember that with Patchwork, you’ll be protecting the planet too. They’re the only wedding registry that gives back to the planet, with 50% of their sign-up fee going directly to environmental organisations.

Check out more of Patchwork’s wedding gift ideas and honeymoon fund templates on their website.

This article was created in partnership with Patchwork Wedding Registry.

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Patchwork – the gift list innovators

“The gift list innovators, Patchwork removes the stigma of asking for cash.” ELLE.

Patchwork wedding registry art fund

Who are Patchwork?

Patchwork is a global platform that lets friends contribute cash, time and skills towards a group gift or event. You can use Patchwork to organise all sorts of celebratory occasions from weddings and baby showers to surprise birthday parties. 

You can use the platform to collectively fund all kinds of unique gifts and experiences, from honeymoons to handbags, campervans to cookery classes and bikes to beehives.

Common ways to use the Patchwork platform:

As a Wedding Gift Registry:

Patchwork allows couples to create an alternative wedding gift registry to allow your guests to collectively fund and chip in towards that one gift you really want. Whether it’s a piece of art or a weekend in Paris, with Patchwork wedding guests come together to fund one big gift – piece by piece. 

Create your Wedding Registry now!

Patchwork wedding registry art fund

As a Honeymoon Fund:

Patchwork enables couples to show wedding guests their dream honeymoon as a collection of images. So friends and family can choose which part of the trip to treat them to – £200 for a night in a hotel, £50 for dinner or £5 for beers on the beach.

Create your Honeymoon Fund now!

Patchwork unique honeymoon in paradise fund

To ask friends to help make and do:

Patchwork is used by thousands of couples planning DIY weddings:

  1. The organiser sets up a Patchwork to show all the things they need help to fund, make or do (from buying beer to making cakes, doing the decorations or promising to DJ)
  2. Then everyone chooses whether to contribute cash, time or skills to help make it happen.

Why use Patchwork?

With customisable templates and gorgeous image gallery, it’s easy to set up your Patchwork gift page and the Pinterest-style layout and mobile friendly shopping experience makes it easy and fun for friends to contribute too.

100,000 people (and counting) already love and trust Patchwork. Here’s why:

  • Your friends can give you money (or contribute their time, or their skills) and feel great about doing it.
  • We don’t try to sell you anything. You can spend the money you receive when, where and how you like.
  • You can collect funds in any currency from friends and family wherever they are in the world.
Patchwork Maldives honeymoon fund

Why Patchwork is so unique?

Fund, make, do

Patchwork is the only gift list in the world that lets people register not just things they want friends and family to fund but also things people can make and do. 

For example, a couple using Patchwork as a honeymoon fund can ask friends and family to treat them to a night in an Airbnb for £100 or pay for a coconut on the beach for £1. But they can also ask people to make them a travel playlist as a present, lend them a rucksack, teach them some Spanish or drive them to the airport. 

Collect gift money direct

Patchwork is independent of all retailers and so it’s entirely flexible. Patchwork also doesn’t hold customer funds. Instead the creator of a patchwork receives cash gifts (in their chosen currency) directly via PayPal or Stripe so they can pay for gift items or experiences when, where and how they like.

So what are you waiting for? Visit Patchwork now!

Or create your unique Wedding Gift Registry now!

Or create your unique Honeymoon Fund now!

Patchwork Aruba honeymoon fund

Post-Quarantine Wedding Trends

After weeks of being inside, forced apart from our nearest and dearest, weddings seem like a lifetime away. And yet, the day will come when life will be full of loved ones, laughter and celebration once more. We can expect some significant effects on weddings to come later this year and into 2021.

The 2021 wedding season will not be without its challenges. With 64% of 2020 weddings expected to be pushed-back, 2021 is set to be a busy one.  Couples will have to make quick decisions on dates, to get first dibs on the date they want.  Guests can expect many more clashes, and midweek weddings than ever, making things a little more challenging. On the bright side, we’ll have a way to use up all of those saved holiday days…

Post-coronavirus, we can expect that weddings will be bigger, bolder, and even more full of meaning. Everyone is longing for the days of confetti, cake, and bubbly, and we have the scoop on the trends you can expect to see post-lockdown.

 

Digital Guests: 

One thing that has come from this period of change and online socialising is the normalisation of online meeting services, such as zoom. Travel restrictions may persist for some time, and we expect two-thirds of weddings post-lockdown to have at least some guests attending virtually. For elderly relatives, as well as friends and family living in far-flung destinations, digital access will be a great way for them to still be able to attend these special moments, even if just remotely. 

man smiling with gadgets

 

Courageous Fashion Choices:

After what feels like months of wearing the same pair of leggings and jumpers, everyone will be jumping at the chance to dress up and look their best.  We can expect adventurous guest fashion, with brighter, more fashion-forward dresses and bolder jewellery choices. 

It won’t just be guests making bold statements; we are seeing a 50% increase in the popularity of statement veils (probably thanks to Mrs. Bieber). We can expect to see many more brides making this trend their own, embroidering their veils with meaningful quotes or even initials. Alongside an increase in statement veils, we are also seeing a rise in catwalk-inspired statement sleeves and pearl-embellished dresses, seen at the likes of Dior and Chanel.

Classic Blue was announced as the Pantone colour of the year, so expect a great revival in the something blue, something borrowed tradition, featuring this beautiful shade. Think blue in newly trending hair barrettes, jewelry and even the bases of high heels!

Post-credit-crunch, boho brides were on the rise, and this trend is set to explode once more. Many 2021 brides will be going for the ethereal look, with wearable florals, and bridal crowns taking center stage.

bride with flower crown

 

Creative Wedding Decor:

If you thought wedding creativity had reached its peak, just you wait. With more time than ever to d think about wedding details, we can expect a move away from some more traditional elements to more creative and modern takes on decor.  Some creative couples will be changing up the traditional seating charts, instead painting table lists on flower-filled glass boxes. Floral hoops have also been growing in popularity, with growing in popularity by 80% this year, alongside hanging floral decorations and flower-filled aisles.

Post quarantine, there will be a revival of the Do-it-yourself Bride and Groom. Around three-quarters of weddings will include some DIY elements, as couples cut costs where they can (and have more time on their hands!), with DIY-couples saving a combined £20million. We are looking forward to personalised table settings, wedding favours, and decor, such as photo displays. 

DIY floral arrangement

 

Wedding Food Trends:

With so many couples caring more than ever about sustainability and the environment, it is no wonder that there has been a shift to a focus on menu seasonality, as well as plastic and waste reduction.  With many couples aiming to create as little environmental impact as possible, the increase in zero-plastic and reduced-waste weddings could save more than 15,000 tonnes of wedding waste from ending up in landfills (that’s 100 blue whales!). From invitations made of recycled paper,  vegan menus and leftover composting, we can safely assume that the sustainable wedding trend is here to stay and will explode in 2021.  We imagine many couples will be donating leftover flowers to local hospitals and hospices, which hopefully will be a trend that will stick.

As for the sweet stuff,  we predict a shift away from the traditional and pricy wedding cakes that often remain uneaten, to more exciting offerings. Unique grab and go dessert displays, such as doughnut walls will come into their own (there are almost 100,000 posts under the hashtag #donutwall on Instagram!).

Weddings are all about individuality and celebrating who the couple truly is. We are expecting food and drink that pay homage to the backgrounds of the couple, whether that is custom messages in fortune cookies or cocktails made with a type of Slovakian cherry liquor.  More and more couples will be selecting super-personal menus, such as family favourite desserts, or cocktails named after people and places that mean something to the couple and their families.

 

Party Central:

After the storm of COVID, when weddings begin again, they are set to go on till the early hours. Where there is partying, there is midnight feasting. Guests can expect to be sustained with anything from sweet treat grazing tables, to late-night pasta pots to keep them dancing the night away.

Missing happy hour has become a national tragedy, and it’s coming back in a big way – think serve-yourself prosecco taps, experimental cocktails, and boozy popsicles like frozen rose, mimosas, and mojitos making their way onto a dancefloor near you. 

It’s only natural that with happy hour, comes confidence in dance ability. Learning a Tiktok dance became a quarantine right of passage, and newly married couples will be eager to show off their new fancy footwork. Be prepared for some seriously questionable, but hilarious first dances. 

Post-Quarantine Wedding Trends

 

Registry Remix:

Many couples feel that this period has put things into perspective, as well as made many questioning what gifts they can live without. Cutlery and crystal bowls are a nice memento, but lots of couples are forgoing the regular registry list, asking for experiences, not things. More will be asking for starter funds for a new home, a pet, or for their honeymoons. Charity registries will also become the norm, with more and more couples wanting to donate to a cause they feel passionate about.

 

Here are some more wedding related articles you’ll love:

Still looking for that ideal wedding venue? Have a browse at Bridebook’s vast wedding venue directory to find the perfect wedding venue near you:

 

5 Gift List Hacks to Make the Most of Your Registry

The greatest gift of all is love….however why shouldn’t you have some lovely new things for your home to go with all that happiness?!

Our friends at The Wedding Shop share their tried and tested tips to help you create your dream gift list.

The wedding shop experts

FUTURE PROOF YOUR LIST

bridebook.co.uk wedding gift list ideas

“When looking around your home it can be hard to see the need for a twelve piece dinner set or additional glassware. However, it’s good to remember that your gifts are bought by your loved ones to mark the start of your new married life together and will build the foundation for your future home. So, pick gifts that are going to stand the test of time and that you will cherish in years to come. You won’t regret it, even if your other half does grumble about storage space!” – Jade

ADD MORE THAN YOU THINK

bridebook.co.uk wedding gift list ideas

“You will be so surprised at how generous your guests are, so make sure you have added enough so that your guests don’t run out of options to choose from. It is also good to pick gifts at different price points so that everyone can buy you something you’ll love, regardless of their budget.” – Alice

EMBRACE GROUP GIFTING

bridebook.co.uk wedding gift list ideas

“Don’t be afraid to add something that you absolutely love but that comes with a large price tag, such as furniture or a piece of art. Group gifting lets your guests contribute as much as they wish towards a statement piece and if it doesn’t get fully purchased you can move your funds to make up the remaining cost.” – Lara

MAKE IT PERSONAL

bridebook.co.uk wedding gift list ideas

“Guests like to know they are contributing to something special and personal to you.  So the most important thing is to have fun choosing gifts that you absolutely love. Don’t feel you need to choose just practical gifts or gifts you think your guests want to buy. Your quirky picks are what makes your gift list completely unique to you.” – Melissa

COVER ALL BASES

bridebook.co.uk wedding gift list ideas

“Even if you only really want cash, we suggest adding physical gifts to your list too. Guests always prefer the choice of both. Your list is the perfect opportunity to update and upgrade your tired home essentials, so there will always be something that you need. When it comes to creating your cash funds, be specific. Guest like to know exactly what their contributions are going towards and what you have planned for the cash.” – Ryma

Happy picking!

And if you haven’t picked a gift list yet, be sure to visit Bridebook’s wedding gift list comparison!

And why not check out the exclusive Bridebook Shop here!

The wedding shop experts

Bridal Party Gifts – Who Do I Need to Buy a Gift For?

Bridal Party Gifts

Since your bridal party have been so helpful with your wedding preparations, it’s only fair that they get some kind of reward for their efforts! Well, that’s the idea behind giving them gifts. This is optional of course. Nobody is forcing you to dish out gifts! If your wedding party have been genuinely helpful however, this is a nice touch as it lets them know that their help is appreciated. What you buy and how lavish you are is completely up to you. If you intend to go big with your gifting, you may want to budget this into your budgeter spreadsheet as this could end up being a significant cost!(this is often overlooked). Here are the people you would traditionally buy gifts for:

  • Best man
  • Maid of Honour
  • Other groomsmen(optional)
  • Other bridesmaids(optional)

It’s also traditional to buy a bouquet of flowers for the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom(1 each!) which will set you back an extra £100. Remember to budget that in.

You may also wish to purchase a gift for the fathers if you feel compelled to. This is not a traditional option so you would be breaking the mould!

A gift for the wedding officiant is also something you may wish to consider. This would just be a small token gesture to thank them for their part in your wedding day.

Finally, a gift for your fiancé prior to the wedding(or on the wedding night) will never go amiss as it adds a final flourish of romance to what is already an uber-romantic day!

Bridebook.co.uk’s Top Etsy Picks for Your Wedding

With an ever growing selection of creative individuals designing and hand crafting wedding pieces –  Etsy is the go to place for all your wedding needs. Whether you’re looking for last minute touches, wedding favours or even your wedding  dress, Etsy is sure to get those creative juices flowing. Here at Bridebook.co.uk we have pulled together a list of our favourite Etsy suppliers to help you add a personalised touch to your wedding day. Enjoy! 

Bridebook.co.uk Etsy

Stationery 

Etsy Supplier: Curious Me Design 

These guys design wedding stationery that’s completely personalised to you, telling the story of your unique adventure together. 

Bridebook.co.uk Miss Sarah Cakes

Etsy Supplier: Stamp It Store

A handmade, personalised stamp for fast,  easy and cheap save the dating. You’re welcome! 

Bridebook.co.uk Etsy article

Etsy Supplier: Katy In Edinburgh 

A must have for all you book lovers out there. Your very own personalised Penguin book of your Order of Service. Completely personalised to include your readings, pictures and quotes. 

bridebook.co.uk Katy in Edinburgh 

Wedding Favours 

 

Etsy Supplier : Spice Kitchen UK

Unique, stunning tea favours for your wedding guests. Choose between a selection of teas and even add your own personal message to each glass bottle. 

Bridebook.co.uk Etsy article

 

Etsy Supplier: Wedding in a Teacup 

Treat your wedding guests with these gorgeous packets of wildflower seeds for them to take home. Each packet can be personalised with your name and wedding date. 

Bridebook.co.uk wedding teacup

 

Decorations and Tableware

 

Etsy Supplier: Gathered Table Supply

Perfect for you modern brides. These faux marble charger plates will make a fabulous addition to your wedding reception table. 

Bridebook.co.uk charger plates

 

Etsy Supplier: Miss Sarah Cake

Add that finishing touch to your wedding cake with these made to order cake toppers by Miss Sarah Cake.  Choose from a selection of different colours to suit any colour scheme. 

 

bridebook.co.uk Miss Sarah Cakes

 

Etsy Supplier : The White Heart Gift Co

Save money on your wedding stationery by using these beautiful clay heart tags as unique place settings which also double up as wedding favours. Win, win! 

Bridebook.co.uk white heart gift co

 

Accessories and Fashion

 

Etsy Supplier: This Modern Love Bridal 

UK based wedding dress designers, This Modern Love Bridal make truly gorgeous wedding gowns to suit any budget. Bespoke and made to order dresses are available as well as fittings at their studio in Brighton. 

Bridebook.co.uk this modern bridal

 

Etsy Supplier: S Hargreaves Jewellery 

If you’re looking for an eye-catching wedding band then look no further than this beautiful 9ct rose gold, rugged bark like textured ring.  Suitable for both men and women.

Bridebook.co.uk ring

 

Etsy Supplier: Joanna Reed Bridal 

This beautiful hair piece  is designed to sit around the back of the head and looks striking in any bridal  up-do. 

Bridebook.co.uk Etsy piece

 

Mens Fashion 

 

Etsy Supplier: Kiatek Gifted Hands

Custom made cufflinks made of vintage world maps creates a very personalised gift for your groomsmen. Let people remember your special day for ever. Everyone smiles when they see a map of a place thats close to their heart.

 

Bridebook.co.uk personalised cufflinks

 

Gifts 

Etsy Supplier: Posh Totty Designs

Celebrate your wedding day by presenting this frame to your loved one, or bring another smile to the newlyweds face and present it as the perfect wedding gift. 

Bridebook.co.uk posh potty

 

Etsy Suppier: Lily Belle London 

This beautiful hand poured candle makes a  unique and very special keepsake.  Each glass candle  is engraved with names and dates of the big day. 

bridebook.co.uk Lily Belle London hand poured candle

 

Etsy Supplier: Clouds and Currents

The ideal wedding gift for all members of your wedding team, from the groomsmen and best man to the father of the bride! 

Bridebook.co.uk clouds and currents

 

Happy Shopping! 

His ‘n’ Hers Wedding Gifts: The Wedding Shop’s Ultimate Guide

Written by The Wedding Shop

The Wedding Shop is the UK’s longest established independent wedding gift list service with over 450 brands and over 27 years in the industry.

Bridebook.co.uk bride and groom with wedding gifts

The gift list rules are changing. Gone are the days of heavy Mother-of-the-Bride involvement and overly bride-centred list. Your gift list should be seen as an amazing opportunity for you both to choose things that you will enjoy and treasure using together.  

The Wedding Shop has pulled together the ultimate modern-day His ‘n’ Hers gift list just for Bridebook. See Bridebook’s complete gift list comparison right here for even more options.

Think of it like this – your gift list is essentially shopping without opening your own wallet! The Wedding Shop have over 350 great brands to choose from as well as the option to create personalised cash funds with no hidden fees. Plus if you can’t find what you’re looking for, they will source it for you.

There really is something to suit every couple!

The Entertainers

bridebook.co.uk and wedding shop

Add all the right ingredients to your gift list to make you the hosts with the most, taking your post-work drinks, Saturday night dinner parties or even a big family gathering to the next level. You will be the envy of all your friends with all the right tools to become the ultimate at-home bartenders.

The Outdoor Explorers

bridebook.co.uk

If you relish every moment to go and explore the great outdoors, make sure your list is packed with outdoor essentials such as the perfect picnic set or even his ‘n’ hers matching bikes.

Plus, regardless of its’ shape or size, make the most of your outdoor space all year round by investing in good quality garden furniture and a top notch BBQ that you will actually want to venture outdoors to enjoy.

The Lazy Weekenders

bridebook.co.uk

If your perfect weekend starts with an indulgent lie-in, make sure you do it right, starting with the most romantic breakfast in bed with all the trimmings and by that we don’t mean bacon but beautiful china, luxurious cushions and soft bedding.

The Tech Lovers

bridebook.co.uk

If it’s new technology that you both love, treat yourselves to the latest home gadgets or quality sound system to ramp up the fun factor in your home.  There is also never a better time to invest in a quality camera or camcorder to make sure you capture all the amazing moments you will share together in the years to come.

The Adrenaline Junkies

bridebook.co.uk

Always wanted to do a tandem skydive together or go on that once in a life time road trip? Pick from hundreds for out of this world experiences or create personalised cash funds that your guests can contribute knowing they are helping you make memories that are going to last a lifetime.

Pick Your Gift List Today!

About The Wedding Shop;

Voted Best Gift List Provider 2017, The Wedding Shop is the UK’s longest established independent gift list service with over 27 years in the industry. Our service is designed for couples who want unrivalled choice, flexibility and exceptional service all in one place. Create your dream gift list that is entirely unique to you, with absolutely no hidden fees.

Chose from over 350 brands and combine products you love with honeymoon contributions, personalised cash funds, memorable experience days, annual subscriptions or even a charity fund that is close to your heart.
Visit one of our four beautiful showrooms or build your list entirely online, your very own personal Gift List Advisor is on hand to offer any advice or guidance you may need.
Plus you can build your list on the go with The Wedding Shop App. The handy barcode scanner means you can add products to your list while you out and about.

As well as unlimited choice, you will receive full financial guarantee, free UK delivery, and a lifetime discount of 10%.

It’s the gift list that keeps on giving!

Harrods’ 6 Gifts You’d Never Think Of Adding To Your List

Now, we love a practical gift list just as much as the next person, but sometimes you can’t help but throw in one or two indulgent pieces. Harrods’ Gift Bureau is helping us all out by giving some seriously swoon-worthy gift ideas that will completely transform your wedding gift list from ‘the usual’ to ‘the extraordinary’. And who knows, maybe you have a long lost uncle who just needs an excuse to splash some cash on you…

Christofle Mood Cutlery Egg

This is a more modern and functional way for the style conscious couple to store their cutlery. More and more young couples are steering away from the classic wooden casket and opting for this fun and functional piece that will last you a lifetime. Price from £750.

bridebook.co.uk christofle cutlery egg

 

Fornasseti Plates

Again, the younger generation getting married is stepping away from the traditional floral china and starting to collect and add unique pieces that really reflect their personality and style. Fornasseti is a great example of this, perfect for the quirky couple. Plates from £115.

bridebook.co.uk fornasetti plates

Lorenzo Quinn Artwork

Art work is now becoming an even more popular gift that will continue to hold value and be a joy to own throughout your marriage for years to come. The gorgeous sculptural pieces from Lorenzo Quinn are continuously popular. With prices starting at £1,500 upwards, you can always have family and friends contribute together to buy pieces like these.

bridebook.co.uk lorenzo quin finding love sculpture

 

Jura Smart Connect Coffee Machine

This is the most functional and unusual item on the list, but the top quality coffee machines by Jura have truly revolutionised the way you can drink your tea and coffee. With the Z6 Carbon machine one can make coffee while sitting on the sofa or in bed using your smart phone. An amazing and fun piece especially on a lazy Sunday! And don’t forget the smart kettle so that you can boil your cuppa before you get home and create the temperature you wish to keep it at. From £99.95.

bridebook.co.uk jura smart coffee machine

Gold Bullion

The Harrods Bank and Gold Bullion, located next to our Gift Bureau, have these gorgeous small gold pieces and unique collectables that would add real character to your gift list. Again, this is a piece to have and hold forever and would be a perfect future heirloom.

bridebook.co.uk- harrods gold bullions

 Abercrombie & Kent Honeymoon

This is an increasingly popular gift, and rightly so! It allows family and friends to contribute towards your honeymoon of a lifetime, organised by Harrods partners Abercrombie and Kent. Tailoring the most amazing and unusual vacations you can think of, perfectly tailored to you as a couple.

bridebook.co.uk- abercrombie and kent honeymoon

Dying to get your hands on some of these items? Check out the Gift Bureau at Harrods in store or online here!

Happy Planning! For more gift inspiration have a read of The Wedding Shop’s ultimate gift guide here.

Prezola’s Top Ten Gifts

Don’t know where to start for your wedding gift list? Whether you’re coming up completely empty handed with ideas or simply have too many, Prezola’s top ten gifts to add to your wedding gift list is exactly what you need. The modern couple’s favourite gift list has done the tricky part and picked out their shortlist of must-add gifts to complete your wedding registry.

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A Gorgeous Set of Cutlery

New on site this year, Viners is a much loved brand, steeped in British heritage.  Viners combine best in class materials and cutting edge technology to produce elegant, robust, rust resistant cutlery.  My current favourite is the Rattail, which dates all the way back to 1604!  It’s understated and elegant – the embodiment of a modern classic with a subtle raised design and brilliant mirror finish.

bridebook.co.uk prezola set of cutlery
Set of Rattail stainless steel cutlery

Last-a-lifetime ovenware

Your wedding list is your chance to upgrade in the kitchen and dining department and asking for some lovely high quality ovenware is a great opportunity to replace the stuff you’ve had since your student days!

It’s hard to beat Le Creuset, which is one of our number one sellers. It will last you a lifetime so think carefully about your colour choice!

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Le Creuset cast iron casserole

A quality dinner service

Entertaining at home is a trend that just keeps growing and huge numbers of our wedding lists now include a beautiful bone china dinner service for all those dinner parties.  If you want something lovely and elegant this blue and white Asiatic Blue Pheasant from Burleigh is stunning with a pretty vintage feel.

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Burleigh Asiatic Pheasant Range

Quirky personalised gifts

Do you love bespoke homewares, quirky handmade accessories and unique pieces of art? If so, one of the big trends we’re noticing in wedding gifts is for couples to reflect their true personalities by choosing bespoke gifts like personalised wall art from a boutique retailer like Bombus.   This adorable bespoke map heart can be personalised with a location close to a couple’s heart. Bombus source a vintage map of the area and transform it into a beautiful bespoke artwork.

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Bombus wall art

Fine wines or vintage champagne

If you know your Chablis from your Chardonnay, ask others to splash on some pricey vintages you might not buy yourself and make sure you stay well stocked for years to come. 

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Jacquart Rose Champagne

A once in a lifetime experience

For the adventurous couple, give them a gift of a lifetime with a Tinggly gift box. Each gift box contains a voucher valid for any one of 350+ different experiences in 80+ countries. From a 4D experience at the London Eye to Shark Diving in South Africa, it is the world’s most exciting gift to receive!

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Tinggly Gift Box

Wonderful quality bedding

In times gone by bed linen was one of the most important parts of a bridal trousseau.  These days luxurious linens are making a big return to wedding lists as brides and grooms request items that they would never normally consider treating themselves to. If you are looking for beautifully classic and simple designs, take a look at the range from The White Company. You’ll find everything from 200 thread count cotton percale to 800 thread count Egyptian cotton.

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The White Company bedding set

Cool countertop trophies

Countertop trophies like coffee machines, designer kettles and the ever popular KitchenAid is always great choice for a gift list.  Unleash your inner Mary Berry and get baking!

 

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Kitchenaid Artisan stand mixer

The gift of sound

No couple should be without a  gorgeous portable vintage-inspired turntable – perfect for listening to all your favourite romantic vinyl LPs! Housed in a faux leather briefcase,  The Crosley turntable features built-in stereo speakers so you can have a romantic party anywhere! There’s a gorgeous range of colours to choose from too. Retro chic meets amazing sound quality. 

bridebook.co.uk-prezola crosley cruiser turn table
Crosley Cruiser Turntable

Talking-point electricals

Electrical items are no longer the functional but necessary items on a wedding gift list!  Let your music take pride of place with something like a funky Aerobull speaker from Jarre Technologies. Just choose red, black or white and start playing your music direct from your smartphone. It will certainly get your guests talking!

bridebook.co.uk-prezola bull speaker docs
Jarre Aerobull Speaker Doc

About Prezola:

Prezola is the UK’s leading specialist wedding gift list company, designed for modern design-conscious couples who want choice and flexibility. Founded in 2010, their unique award-winning service lets couples have gorgeous presents from all the top homeware brands, a commission-free honeymoon fund, custom gifts and charity donations all on one easy-to-use-list. Prezola understands modern couples have busy lifestyles and want to do their ‘wedmin’ online.

Prezola has been named “The Ultimate Wedding Gift List” by market leading Conde Nast Brides Magazine and were crowned “Wedding Gift List of the Year” in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Prezola are run by a husband and wife team supported by 40 dedicated staff who pride themselves on providing a truly personal service. 

www.bridebook.co.uk-prezola-top-ten-gifts

Happy Planning!

Curating Your Gift List – Where to Start?

It’s not just about toasters, tea sets and towels…the only thing that should limit your wedding gift list is your imagination. Bridebook went straight to the pros at Amazon.co.uk to get their essential tips in tackling your gift list, covering everything you need to know to start putting together the perfect wedding gift list!

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Start Early

Creating your gift list is an incredibly exciting part of planning for your future. The gifts you receive may well be with you for the rest of your life.

They will become a reminder of the day you started a new life together and also of each and every guest who wanted to commemorate that day so allow yourself plenty of time to carefully select and research everything you choose.

Think Variety

Always make your list longer than you need as your guest will value having a variety of items to choose from.

Amazon.co.uk has the world’s largest selection available for wedding gift lists; anything that is available on Amazon.co.uk can be added so make sure you select items that reflect your personality as a couple and will be things that you can enjoy together.

bridebook.co.uk blue bike from amazon
His and her bicycles are a wonderful addition to give your list a little variety to the traditional items

Price Range

It’s a good idea to have a wide range of gifts across various price points so that you are catering for all budgets. From photo frames and mugs to garden furniture and TVs, offer options across the price spectrum.

You can also add gift cards or incorporate charity donations into your list if you want to.

Go For What You Love

Don’t be constrained – whether you want design classics for the home, top-of-the-range cookware, luxury beauty and skincare products, a case of vintage champagne or a pair of bikes so you can kick start a new hobby together, do you research to ensure you’re getting the best of the best. With customer reviews you can make informed choices and read genuine customer feedback across all products.

And if there’s something specific you want from another online store and want truly endless options you can opt for the Universal Wish List Feature and add that to your list too!

bridebook.co.uk variety of items from amazon
Make sure you’re adding only the best of the best to your list by checking customer reviews

Eight Weeks in Advance

We recommend sharing your list with your guests eight weeks in advance of your wedding day. This gives them plenty of time to purchase the gifts and is short enough to avoid any products going out of stock.

It’s always a good idea to review your list a couple of weeks before the big day so that you can add extra items if necessary.

A Helping Hand

You are likely to have guests of all ages wanting to contribute to your day so make it as easy for them as possible. With an online gift list you can just share the link to your list and your guests can purchase at the click of a button, which will ensure you don’t receive duplicates.

Plus, there’s an extra bonus: as soon as your guests collectively spend £250 on gifts for your wedding, you will receive a £50 Amazon.co.uk gift card. (Ts and Cs apply)

Say Thank You

Once the wedding and honeymoon are over it’s easy to forget the all important thank you. People still appreciate a hand written thank you card and we provide a Thank You list which allows you to keep track of what has been purchased and by whom, so you can show your gratitude.

bridebook.co.uk amazon thank you note
Don’t forget the most important part – your thank yous!

Happy Planning!

Why not check out the amazing brand new Bridebook Store for some unique products!

Introduction: Wedding Gift List

Bridebook.co.uk- bride hugging groom with the bouquet over his shoulder
By Cinzia Bruschini

You’re at that stage of wedding planning… choosing a room full of presents for just the two of you! Yup it’s pretty much our favourite bit – who doesn’t love presents?! You’ve spent months choosing what your lovely guests are going to eat, drink and dance to and now it’s time for them to say thank you. For some couples the gift list can be a breeze, especially if they know where they want to register and exactly what they want. Understandably, other couples take a little longer to decide – what if you want everything?! So let’s help you pull together the ultimate gift list.

Choose Your Perfect Gift List!

Bridebook.co.uk- his and hers converse shoes
By Fiona Kelly

1. What do you need?

Traditionally, wedding gifts made up a couple’s first home, so anything from comfy pillows to frying pans, to vacuum cleaners. Now, as lots of couples live together before they tie the knot, you may just be topping up things you have AND choosing things you love but definitely don’t need – why not?! As well as considering your needs, you should think about your style as a couple; if you are not into fancy dinner parties, but love camping, then choose an epic tent, not the punch bowl you will never use! Remember, as your guests browse your gift list, their reaction should be “wow, this is so them!”.

2. What are your options?

Gift list

The beauty of a gift list is that it can be set up in a number of stores and you can choose plenty of different pressies – yay! Stores like John Lewis and online gift lists like The Wedding Shop are absolutely perfect, as they stock a variety of brands and lots of goodies, like household items, clothes and anything else you can think of! Tip: always choose twice as many gifts as wedding invitations that you send! This will give your guests plenty of choice and make sure you do this for price options too. In our experience cheaper gifts will range from £20-40, £40-100 is fairly standard, £100-200 is more on the expensive side and £200+ are the luxury items.

Honeyfund

This option is perfect for a couple who have all the home comforts they need and would prefer going on an amazing and unforgettable honeymoon. There are two ways in which you can do this: one is to collect cash and spend it on your honeymoon of choice. Or you can personalise the experience for your guests – give them the option of contributing to a candlelit dinner, first class travel, or VIP accommodation, all of which will make their cash donations more special, both to them and to you.

Charity Donation

If you are a philanthropist couple, charity donations are another great alternative, especially if you have a cause that is close to your heart. Whether your guests donate to a specific project, or to the charity as a whole, you can let them know what their donations have achieved in your Thank You notes, which will make them feel pretty good about themselves – good deed for the day and wedding present sorted!

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By Jamie Bott Wedding Photography

Cash

This option can be a bit tricky for a lot of couples, especially as they don’t necessarily know how to ask for cash. But don’t worry, cash gifts are perfectly acceptable and even traditional in a lot of cultures. Just make sure to spread the word to your family and bridal party, who will in turn notify the guests.

Personalised gifts

If you aren’t keen on any of the above options and really don’t want to ask for cash, you can ask your family and friends to get you personalised gifts, which can become awesome family heirlooms in years to come! One of our favourite ideas is a beautifully drawn map, where you can pin the destinations you’ve been to, destinations you want to go to and display it all in your living room, as a gorgeous piece of art. If collecting art and creating your own travel diary isn’t your bag, you can always go for collecting wine and filling up your wine cellar, with a special bottle set aside for your first anniversary and the christening of your firstborn.

3. Etiquette

We hear a lot of couples say that they have decided on their registry/charity/fund, but they don’t know how to let their guests know, especially as etiquette says that you shouldn’t put gift information on your invitations. You don’t need to worry, as there are plenty of ways around this. The first and most traditional is to ask your parents and Maid of Honour/Best Man to gently spread the word amongst your guests about your decision regarding gifts. The second, is to include it on your information sheet or on a subtle card (John Lewis provide these) with the gift list information on, so that you can slip one into your invitation envelope. Another option is to direct your guests to your wedding website and let them know the gift options there. Problem solved!

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom hugging in a field surrounded by hay bells
By Millie Benbow Photography

Happy Planning!

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