• Begin by buying a notebook or have a bridal gift register
• Write down every gift received
• Include the name and address of whoever gave the gift
• Note the date the gift was received
• Have a brief description of the gift and mention it in your thank you note to make it more personal
• Thank you notes should be handwritten either on cards or a notepad
• Set aside time each day to write thank you notes
• In your notebook jot down the dates on which gifts are acknowledged
• Give each gift a number that corresponds with a number in your book

Some brides still display their gifts at home so visitors can see them but, under no circumstances, should gifts be opened or displayed at the reception. If you think that most guests will be bringing presents rather than monetary gifts, it's a good idea to purchase a floater insurance policy to cover the gifts at the reception and while they're in transit.

Cash gifts

More and more couples consider cash the best of all gifts because it allows them to buy what they would really like or help cover their expenses, however etiquette requires that the bridal couple leave it to close family and friends to pass the word. Under no circumstances should 'Cash gifts, please' be included on the wedding invitation but you can have someone organise a special gift registry for cash gifts. It is becoming popular to have 'honeymoon' or 'home' gift registries to which guests can contribute.