Set up a wedding registry checklist if you want to avoid getting five sets of cutting knives and multiple waffle irons among your wedding gifts.
A wedding registry is a system where you and your partner go to various stores and choose a list of gifts your friends and family members can choose from. Setting one up helps you make sure you do not receive items you already have or do not need, and it will help your loved ones choose gifts you and your partner could really use.
Most stores have a wedding registry system either in the store or online. If someone buys a gift, the list is updated, which will prevent another guest from bringing the same item.
Getting Started
Think about the kinds of items you and your partner need and want for your new life together. Some people will want dishes and others may want decorations.
Remember to research the stores you use; each store may have a different set of guidelines and policies for their wedding registries. Choose stores with wedding registries that are easy to use. Ask if the store has multiple locations, online access and an easy ordering process.
Wedding registry Web sites have simplified the gift-buying process. Using the Web will allow you and your guests easy access to your online wedding registry when all of you look to see if updates have been made to the list.
Check on the return policies for the stores you're considering. For example, they may give you cash back for returns from the registry. Other stores may have restrictions on returns and dictate that you have to have a receipt, that the tags must still be on the item and that you can exchange items only in the same department as the original gift. Make life easier on yourself by finding this information in advance.
Also, some stores offer users a discount on items that are not bought. If you choose each wedding registry list wisely and consider what you and your partner really want, you will be able to start your new life while saving yourselves some money.
Ask friends and family members about their experiences. Also, check with bridal forums and magazines for word-of-mouth feedback on stores and their user-friendliness.
How Many Wedding Registries Are Enough?
You want to have enough wedding registries and selected items so that your guests have options, but you do not want to have so many registries that you overwhelm them. Remember to start this process early; you want to give your guests enough time to shop around and make a decision regarding the perfect wedding gift.
However, you do not want to start your search so early that the items sell out, are discontinued, or shift in price. Take your time doing your research and make your selections three to six months before the wedding. Make sure to check back from time to time to see if the store still has your items in stock.
What Items to Choose
Be sure to choose a variety of items in a range of prices. You don't have to ask for things you don't want just because they are cheaper, but some of your guests have and are willing to spend more money than others. Let your guests enjoy buying you gifts without worrying about their bank accounts.
Before you select items, look at your guest list. Most people select two to three items per guest. Your guests will have many options to choose from, but they won't see so many items that your guests can't make a decision.
Choose items that you want, and take a little extra time to assemble your wedding registry list. This is your chance to ask for things you and your partner really need or desire and will eliminate gifts you'd return or might take up unneeded space. Many people use their registry to receive items for decorating their new homes. Traditionally, people ask for tableware, china and kitchen appliances, as well as bedding and other home-based items. But always keep your and your partner's needs first.
When you create your wedding registry, also specify you and your partner's name. Some of your guests may want to personalize their gifts to you. For example, they may want to engrave a picture frame with your names.
If you do not want traditional gifts like kitchenware and throw pillows, try making a honeymoon-specific registry where guests can contribute meals, trips, lodging and small extras. Also, consider asking your guests to donate time, money, or gifts to some your favorite charities.
How to Tell Guests
Many stores provide users with cards to include alongside wedding invitations. However, the decision to include these cards is up to you. Some people may think mentioning gifts in your invitations is uncouth or rude, but some people may welcome the information because they won't know where to start or shop. Remember that you know your guests best.
 | Think about it: The point behind a bridal registry is to make sure you don't end up with closets full of junk you'll never need or twenty sets of hand towels. When deciding what should or should not be listed in your wedding registry, think about what you and your partner truly need. |
 | Wondering when to tell guests about your wedding registry? Purchasing gifts for the happy couple is a tradition many guests participate in to help newlyweds begin their new lives together. |
Determining a wedding gift for a parent getting married can be tricky. After all, they are beyond needing the usual toasters and silverware to set up their home and are often financially stable as well. |
|&&| Planning your wedding registry? Our guides will help you with a wedding registry checklist. Once you're done with your bridal registry, we'll even help you choose wedding gifts for parents. |
