Instead of setting up a traditional wedding list of gifts, it is very popular to organise an 'alternative' list for charity.

Charity wedding gift lists work the same as more conventional ones. Guests can phone up, go online or send a cheque by post. A list can be set up a list directly with most leading charities.

Depending on the nature of the organisation, the guest will choose an actual item, for example, a goat, toilet or schooling equipment.

Other charitable organisations of a different nature - for example research based charities where items cannot be donated - may simply ask for financial donations.

Alternatively, there are companies that specialise in managing wedding list donations to charity and non-profit organisations that manage them on the couple's behalf.

Guests should remember to Gift Aid their donations to maximise the amount donated.

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