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Creating your wedding registry is one of the most fun chores to accomplish when it comes to wedding planning duties. It’s a time to spoil yourselves and receive the things that you really need (and want) to start your new lives together. Whether you and your sweetie choose to head into your favorite store and pick items for your registry in person or opt to create the entire list online, these tips will help you get it done.
Choose Where to Shop
There are so many options for creating your registry in today’s world and no shortage of great stores and boutiques to include. Narrow down your registry to one or two stores, three max, or create one registry with all of your wish list items (more on that later!) It’s important to choose options that are easily accessible from anywhere in the country or have easy-to-use online ordering.
You’ll also want to register for gifts at a variety of prices. Aim to have gift options spread out evenly amongst your individual registries and make sure there is an assortment of items in every price range, from low cost to higher end.
Work as a Team
It’s easy to get carried away and start adding to your cart (physical or online). But before getting started, talk to your partner about the process and work together as a team to create a wish list that you both will be happy with. There may be some ideas that you didn’t think of or something that the other has been wanting!
Make It Easy
Your registry will be fabulous, but you should also make sure it is easy for your guests to use. One way to guarantee this is to combine your registry lists into one website. For example, if you register at Williams Sonoma, Macy’s, and Target, some websites will allow you to combine and organize these registries into one simplified list. Websites such as Simple Registry allow you to add items from any website into one list. You can even customize your registry webpage with photos and messages to your guests. It’s a win-win.
Finally, don’t forget to list the best shipping address to accept packages so that there are no mishaps with the mail.
Be Timely
Though your bridal shower may not be until later on in your wedding timeline, there are opportunities to prepare and share your wedding registry with guests sooner than later, either on your wedding website or by word of mouth. Completing your registry about four months before the wedding will not only keep you ahead of the game but can allow your guests to purchase their gifts when it is convenient for them. Remember, some of your guests may need that extra time to plan for the money going toward your wedding (bridal party expenses, travel, etc.), and it also helps ensure that items will ship on time for the big day!
Alternative Gifts ($$$)
While you will probably receive some cash on your wedding day, it’s never polite to ask for it. Luckily, there are plenty of other options available to ask for practical bucks in place of gifts. A popular option is to ask for contributions toward your honeymoon via websites like Honeyfund. These sites allow you receive contributions for things like airfare, hotel stays, excursions, and more.
Consider the Whole House
Or apartment or condo. Consider all of the rooms of your living space individually so that you don’t skip any essentials. Think about what you need, as well as what you want. Your list may need to be narrowed down at the end of it all, but you’ll at least have covered all your bases. Rooms to think about include kitchen, bedroom, baths, living room, home office, and patio/outdoor spaces.
If you already own a home or live in a space together, this is a great time to upgrade certain appliances to the new models you’ve had your eye on or score some new storage/organizational items.
Think Outside of the Box
A wedding registry is a perfect time to create a list of high-end items you wouldn’t necessarily purchase for yourself. It’s a chance to think outside of your typical routine and consider the events you may be hosting in years to come. Take this opportunity to find those special occasion items that make your heart flutter. We’re talking complete dinnerware sets, fancy flatware, 1000 thread count sheets, extravagant crystal candle holders, champagne flutes, and whatever else speaks to you.
Remember, as long as you have a good mix of price ranges on your registry, a few wish list items won’t hurt! Pro tip: You probably won’t get everything on your wedding registry, but after your wedding, be sure to ask the store if they offer discounts on any items that weren’t purchased.
Review & Edit
Once you’re satisfied with your registry, review it closely to make sure you don’t have any duplicates. Take this time to narrow down items you might have changed your mind about or add other things you missed. Also, watch out for gifts that should be ordered in pairs or sets. For example, bath towels, you may want to add a set of 4 or more so you have guest towels on hand when you need them.
Don’t Forget the Thank You Notes
Thank you notes are a way to show your wedding guests, family, and friends your appreciation for their gift, as well as for their involvement and/or attendance at the wedding. The amount of thank you notes you’ll need to write can stack up pretty fast, so be mindful and don’t procrastinate on this important and polite duty for too long. If possible, stay ahead by filling and mailing a thank note for each gift as you receive them should any arrive before your wedding day. For the remainder, be sure to send your thank cards within two to three months of receiving the gift.
We hope these simple tips help you create your perfect wedding registry effortlessly. Remember to collaborate with your partner, have fun, and enjoy window shopping!
