Creating your gift registries is one of the highlights of wedding planning - it’s your one-time ultimate indulgent shopping spree. Before registering for wedding gifts, figure out what you need to complete your home. Select a wide variety of gifts suitable for engagement presents, shower gifts and wedding presents. Consider a mixture of price ranges, and do not shy away from high ticket items. Family and friends want to give you the best they can afford - so go ahead and choose the things your really want.
Make sure to register 6-8 months before your wedding day and prior to your engagement party!
Traditional Items included in registries:
*Kitchen Needs (flatware, stemware, barware, cutlery, appliances, etc.)
*Bed & Bathrooms Accessories (pillows, bed spread, towels, etc.)
*Home Decor (baskets, vases, rugs, paintings, etc.)
*Electronics (TV, DVD, Stereo, etc.)
*Home Equipment (grill, vacuum, lawn mower, etc.)
*Sporting Goods
*New luggage for your honeymoon
?’s to ASK
How do you keep track of my registry. Does the store use a computer database? (This will keep a record of what gifts were actually purchased which makes it easier on your guests as they can see what still needs to be purchased).
Ask if they can arrange for your gifts to be shipped directly to a certain address. This will allow your guests to ship the gifts directly without having to go to the post office.
Ask about and review the stores policy on refunds and exchanges. If you receive 10 toasters you may want to return a few.
GETTING THE WORD OUT
It must be said again - NEVER include any mention of gifts or where you are registered on your invitations!
Have your family and friends spread the word when guests ask about what to give you.
It is appropriate to include the stores where you are registered on your shower invitations, with the simple statement “Bride is registered at ...,”
It is also acceptable to link to your registry sites from your wedding web site.
THANK YOU ETIQUETTE
Gifts received before the wedding should be acknowledged in the form of a thank-you note within two weeks of the gift’s arrival.
Those gifts received on the wedding day should have thank you notes sent no later than one month after the honeymoon.
All cards should include a handwritten note from the Bride with a short mention of the gift given.
WHAT’S HOT
Online Registries. It’s not only convenient for you but for your long distance guests as well!
The Honeymoon Registry. Guests contribute to the purchase of your airline tickets, lodging, meals, etc.
Home purchase. Contact your bank/mortgage company to establish an account so friends and family can contribute to the down payment of a home.
The Groomistry. Registering for power tools, sporting equipment and electronics.