Dear Bride and Groom,

As your big day draws ever closer both you and your guests will be thinking about wedding gifts. Even 6 – 8 months in advance you might find people asking if you have any idea what you would like.

I was recently asked when giving a bridal consultation about what happens when guests are only invited to the reception and not the full day. Are they expected to bring a gift? Should you send them information of any registered lists that you have?

Being honest, there are no particular rules on gift giving. Generally speaking I would not send my evening invite guests information of any gift registers. But there are a few exceptions eg:

- the wedding ceremony itself is a very small affair (perhaps due to venue restrictions) and the majority of guests are only invited to the wedding reception

- the wedding itself is abroad and this is a 2^nd celebration which all guests are invited to.

In most cases I would expect no more than a card from evening guests although you will find that many will give you a small gift or cash to go alongside it. If I was attending an evening wedding reception then I suppose I would make my choice based on how well I know the couple. For example, if I am invited as a friend of the parents of the bride or groom then a card is probably adequate. If I am invited as a long-term acquaintance then I would most likely give a monetary token, gift voucher or a small but thoughtful gift.

As the Bride and Groom, you can let guests know simply if you would not like to receive any gifts. Just add a little line to your invite stating that you only need the gift of their presence.

As guests, you probably have an idea of the couple’s personality and what they might expect from you. With this you just have to go with your gut!

Kind regards,

Kim Rix

Your London Wedding Planner

“Freeing up your time“

Dear Bride & Groom,

When preparing for a wedding, couples often come to a standstill when deciding on whether or not to prepare wedding favours for their guests. This tradition stands as a mark of appreciation for the blessing given to the bride and groom by the guests in attendance at the ceremony. Wedding favours can be as elaborate or simple as you like. We thought it would be useful to provide a few great ideas for extra special wedding favours in order to make your preparations a little less stressful!

1. Personalised Bottles of Champagne

Not only is champagne universal; it screams luxury and will go down an absolute treat with guests. There are many websites and companies that offer a personalization service – however, if you find a decent designer – you could have your own labels printed to put onto some fine bottles of champagne. An extra touch of class for an extra special day! Again, it’s all about planning and organization in getting this sort of thing organised early.

2. Luxury Chocolates.

Chocolatiers offer some unique and wonderful favours for your guests. Avoid the high street chocolate shops – an independently owned chocolate shop will help you taste, choose and wrap special handmade chocolate favours to your desire. This way – your guests get to experience the luxury of some of the finest handmade chocolates; making them feel all the more special in being a part of your big day! A tasty treat for all, and you can almost guarantee that when ordering in bulk – you’ll more than likely receive a special discount!

3. Swarovski Crystal

A little pricier, but your guests are well worth it. Why not treat your guests to a little piece of Swarovski crystal as a favour to remind them of your wonderful day! If you’re feeling ambitious, why not get the date engraved along with your initials!

Swarovski comes in many shapes and sizes so make sure that you seek this one out well in advance in order to find the right piece for your wedding. Complete with a delicate little gift box and some fine tissue paper – this favour(able) idea is one that will live on for a long time. A beautiful and stylish gesture of appreciation for your guests.

Kind Regards,

Kim Rix

Your London Wedding Planner