Wedding registry was initiated for numerous of reasons. One of the core reasons was to avoid visitors purchasing duplicate gifts.

And then, of course, there's the chance that you could receive gifts that you don't want. So a wedding list, where the couple registers a selection of gifts that they would prefer to receive, operates as a guide to help guests choose their presents. That way, everyone knows that the today is something that the couple wants and that it won't be a duplicate.

But changes to modern life have also increased the importance of a wedding list. These days, many couples live together for months or even years before they get married. So by the time they get round to tying the knot, they may have furnished their home with all the household items they need. Thus a wedding present list allows them to pinpoint the issues that they need.

These days, stores that run wedding lists can supply almost any item that you could need. This allows you to select items that fit in with your lifestyle. Many stores also allow you to run an online wedding list. This enables your guests to buy their wedding present from the comfort of their own home.

Alternatively, a present registry allows you to select a general theme. For example, some couples choose a honeymoon registry, where guests contribute to the cost of the honeymoon. Other ideas include a charity registry or even a mortgage registry.

So if you've decided to operate a wedding list, here are a few things to bear in mind.

1) Register Early
Most stores allow couples to open their wedding list 12-15 months before the wedding and up to a year after. This gives guests plenty of time to select their gift and allows them to buy a first anniversary present from the same list.

2) Select The Stores Carefully
Select a few stores that you like and visit them to see what wedding list services they offer. Nearly all household department stores run a wedding registry ideas scheme.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to one question; which store offers the type of goods that you like?

And if you want an online wedding list, remember that not all stores offer this facility.

And bear in mind the general price range of the store and the items that you place on your list. You might be excited at the prospect of getting the latest top of the range household electronics, but not everyone will spend that much on your gift. If your list is out of your guests' price range, they might buy your wedding gift elsewhere, which means possible duplicates and unused items.

The last thing to check before you sign up is the store's refund policy. Will you be able to return gifts that you don't want? And if you can, will the refund be cash or store credit? If the latter, make sure you like the type of products sold by the store so you can use the credit for other purchases.

3) Stay Informed
Once you and your partner have made your choices, you will receive a printed list (or if you have an online wedding list, the store's website will display your chosen items). This information will be updated every time someone buys a gift from your list (to prevent duplicates).

And that's all there is to wedding lists.

Enjoy your wedding.