We don’t typically get asked too much about registries, but still feel the need to give our opinion, or a Wedding Registries 101, if you will. You’ll want to know when to make one, how to make one and where to let your guests know about it throughout the planning process.
Actually starting a registry can be a fun process, whether you make one virtually or in person. Lots of couples still choose to sit down with a consultant in a department store and go around with the scanner adding things, or they can sit on their couch to create one online! Most couples are looking for items for their home that they don’t have yet, or if they are already living together, items they wouldn’t have bought themselves just yet (think holiday china sets, robot vacuums, luxurious linens!). If you choose to make one online, there are multiple services that allow you to have items from a number of stores, all on the same registry link. This is convenient to put on your wedding website for guests to visit as they would like. If you choose to do multiple registries with different online stores, make sure it’s no more than 2-3, so your guests aren’t overwhelmed. Another thing to remember is the number of items to include. You don’t want your guests to go on your registries and see 3 items (that are probably already bought and then they’re forced to give you cash), or too many that they are completely overwhelmed and feel they need to buy you a lot to cover your wishlist.
The wedding website is the only place the registry information should go, with the bridal shower invitation as an exception. It is actually not good etiquette to include the registry information anywhere on the formal wedding invitation, and now with websites to direct guests to, we usually suggest a details card directing guests to that location for all ‘wedding information’. It is ok, however, if you’re having a bridal shower of any kind to include that information on there since the whole purpose of that event is to shower you with gifts.
What happens if you choose not to have a registry at all? That’s perfectly ok! There are many couples that have been together, lived together for years before they get married nowadays and don’t need the items that you’d typically find on the registry. In this case, the ultimate gifting option would be monetary. Please do not put anywhere on your wedding website or invitation that you prefer money only. If this is truly your preferred gift, you can set up a honeymoon fund to collect “gifts” that way, or simply not have anything registry-wise. Guests will get the hint if they don’t see any type of registry, but it’s tacky to physically ask for money.
Whatever type of registry or items you’re wanting, remember that it’s for you & your spouse, for your married life together. Be polite, keep communication open and do not forget thank you cards to all guests, no matter what they give you! We hope this Wedding Registries 101 was helpful as you continue to plan.
