Indian weddings are radiantly generous compared to most cultures when it comes to gift giving. Not only will the bride be provided with a whole new wardrobe before her departure by her maternal parents, but gifts will be exchanged by the in-laws too.

But if there’s one westernised feature which is gaining popularity in Indian weddings, it’s the gift list or registry.

And many would say thank goodness for that.

For the carefully prepared list – offering variety both in terms of items and, importantly, budget – should be equally welcome to bride and groom, who avoid the cliched ten dinner sets. Also their guests, who avoid seeing their carefully selected dinner set appearing at a future wedding!

It also means you can avoid that particular message on your wedding invitation – no box gifts (OK, we know it means give us your cash!)

The fact that you have a home to set up is a wonderful opportunity to acquire meaningful gifts, and your guests will know they’ve given you something worthwhile. A huge amount of shops and stores will host your gift list, and do all the necessary – simply pick one whose range you love.

While you’ll probably limit the most expensive items, don’t worry about appearing greedy by including lots of items – it gives guests a choice. Also include gift cards or vouchers so guests have the option of leaving the final selection to you and only need to spend as much as they want to with no pressure, contributing towards some of the larger items which would be covered through a number of guests clubbing together in effect.

So when should you send out your list?

Etiquette says the best way is to have it ready by the time you’re sending out invitations which should include, along with the RSVP, you can simply include lists with invitations which is probably what you need to do with our guests who can ring and ask what it’s all about – why not put in a translation sheet of how the gift list service works, I’m sure they’ll be delighted!