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A wedding registry is suppose to be fun… right?? Then why do some couples feel so much pressure to create their wedding registry? Today I have 5 tips for your wedding registry.
If you don’t have an idea on where to begin, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of setting up your registry, from when and where to register to how to enjoy the process.
Truthfully, this is more than just a list of gifts— it’s a way to share your future plans with your loved ones and start your new life together with the things you need and want.
Photo by: Hannah Obremskey Photo // Venue: Noelle // Florist: Echoes of Eden
How Does a Wedding Registry Work?
A wedding registry is essentially a curated list of gifts that you and your partner would love to receive from your guests. These gifts are usually chosen from specific stores or online retailers, allowing guests to select items that fit within their budget and your preferences. This system ensures that you receive items you actually want and need, reducing the chances of duplicate gifts and helping you build a well-rounded collection of home essentials.
Because who wants to go home with 5 mismatched bath towel sets and no gift receipt?? (Hint: not me!)
A registry can also make sure that you’re not hauling a ton of items back to your house or apartment after the wedding day. You’ll receive the majority of your gifts in the months and weeks leading up to the wedding day, and you’ll be able to organize your home with plenty of time.
(Hey, if you’re wondering where to start with a wedding registry– you’re probably wondering where to start wedding planning! Head over to my Wedding Cost Estimator!)
Photography: Jacqueline Davison // Venue: The Chapel at Firefly Lane // Florals: Poppy and Pine
1. Bridal and Wedding Showers
In addition to wedding gifts, you may also receive gifts at bridal or wedding showers. These events are hosted by friends or family and provide an opportunity for guests to give you gifts and celebrate your upcoming wedding day. Many people want to purchase something from your wedding registry and enjoy the event of getting to see your overjoyed faces.
Some guests do not purchase something from your wedding registry, but if you’re having multiple showers, you can keep track of what you receive and ensure there’s no overlap with your main registry. You may also think of more items you can place on the wedding registry based on gifts already received!
2. Wedding Gifts, Honeymoon Fund, and Donations
While traditional wedding gifts are still popular, many couples are also opting for alternative registry options. A honeymoon fund allows guests to contribute to your post-wedding travels, while donation registries enable guests to give to a cause or charity that’s meaningful to you. Consider including these options on your wedding registry to give guests a range of choices and to support causes you care about.
3. Building Your New Home
Your registry can also include items that will help you build and furnish your new home together. Think about registering for practical essentials like kitchen appliances, cookware, and home decor, as well as upgrades that might enhance your living space. This is your chance to select items that will make your new house feel like a home.
If you are already living together and have the essentials or you are merging your households after many established years, a wedding registry is a great time to upgrade and splurge on items you’ve been dreaming about including in your home.
4. When Should I Make a Wedding Registry?
Ideally, you should start your wedding registry as soon as you get engaged. This allows you to have your registry ready well before your wedding and gives your guests ample time to select gifts. Additionally, having your registry set up early allows you to include it in your save-the-date cards and wedding website, making it easy for guests to access and browse.
While it’s not an immediate “do-right-now” task, you’ll be able to build on it over the entire engagement timeframe. Feel like you’ve forgotten something? Add it a few months into planning!
5. Remember to Have Fun
Creating your registry should be an enjoyable experience! It’s a chance to dream about your future together and choose items that will make your life easier and more enjoyable. Take your time to explore different stores and online retailers, and don’t hesitate to register for things you truly want and need.
My biggest suggestion is to add one really “out-there” gift! There’s hardly anything more memorable about your registry than a really fun gift you didn’t think someone would purchase.
Beginning of Engagement: Save the Dates and Wedding Website
Once you’ve picked out your items and it is all set up, it’s time to spread the word!
I encourage everyone to begin letting people know about their wedding date as soon as a venue is secured and the registry is complete. Start with your save-the-date cards and wedding website. Including a QR code or direct link to your registry on these materials makes it easy for guests to find and access your registry! This can be a convenient way for guests to view your gift preferences and choose something special for you.
When you hire a wedding planner, I guide you through all of the steps of a wedding registry. Let’s chat about my packages and make sure you have all the help you deserve!
Where Do We Create our Wedding Registry?
When choosing where to register, consider a mix of traditional and modern options. Some of the most popular choices for my couples include:
- Amazon Wedding Registry: Offers a vast selection of items and convenient features like price matching and returns.
- Target Wedding Registry: Known for its wide range of home goods and accessible locations.
- Crate & Barrel: Ideal for stylish home decor and high-quality kitchen items.
For more guidance on where to create your registry, check out these helpful resources:
Essentials vs. Upgrades
When creating this list, think about including both essentials and upgrades.
Essentials might include everyday items like cookware, bedding, and small appliances, while upgrades could be higher-end items such as luxury bedding, high-tech gadgets, or premium kitchenware. Balancing these will help ensure you receive a variety of gifts that suit your needs and lifestyle.
Where Do I Send Wedding Registry Items?
If you’re registering for items that are shipped directly to you, ensure that you provide a clear and accurate shipping address on your registry. Some stores offer gift wrapping and direct shipping options, which can simplify the process for your guests.
If you’re having items shipped to a different address, such as a relative’s home or a temporary address while you move, update your registry with the correct information.
Have Fun– Again!
Finally, remember to have fun with the entire process. This is a joyful time in your life, and setting up your wedding registry should be a reflection of your excitement and anticipation for the future. Enjoy choosing items that will bring you happiness and enhance your new life together.
By following these steps and making thoughtful choices, you’ll create a wedding registry that truly represents you and your partner’s tastes and needs. Happy registering, and here’s to a beautiful start to your new life together!
