Weddings are big business and contribute significantly to the retail economy. In recent years, many couples have started registering gift lists with their favourite department store or wedding website to make it easier for guests to choose a present.

Last year, Brown Thomas relaunched its list as "I do", a personalised wedding service.

Others have also developed this side of their retail business. Such decisions make commercial sense as the average nuptials are witnessed by approximately 150 people. If invited guests spend an average of £75 per couple on a present, that totals £5,625 per wedding. Multiply that figure by the average number of couples registering each year and a wedding list supplier is guaranteed a very healthy bottom line.