Answers to the Most Asked Wedding Registry Questions
There’s no better time than quarantine to get started on putting together your wedding registry!
A common practice for all couples preparing to get married, creating a wedding registry can be a bit overwhelming if you’ve never put one together before. But, don’t stress too much it’s just a curated list of the items you want to bring into your new (or existing home) with your partner. It’s supposed to be a fun task and an opportunity to list all the items you need and your dream appliances or decor. Guests will use your registry as a point of reference, so don’t feel insecure about listing a few expensive items, guests will have plenty of gifts to choose from on your registry. So, get your scanner gun (or computer mouse) ready, we’ve rounded up six of the most asked questions regarding wedding registries to help guide you through the process stress-free!
Why Do We Need A Registry?
Think of your registry as more of a guide for guests to know what you may need or an indication of what your style is so if they decide to buy you something that isn’t listed on the registry, they can gauge whether or not you would like it. You might be thinking, if we already live together and don’t feel we need anything, why do we have to make a registry? Even if you feel you have everything you need in terms of home appliances or decor, a registry is still important to have. It allows you to take inventory of what you already own and if you would like any upgrades. Just think, you can finally get rid of those mismatched pots and pans you’ve had since college!
When Should We Register?
Truthfully, the earlier you register, the better. If you decide to have an engagement party or a bridal shower, some guests will want to bring along gifts. Having an extensive registry for them to refer to will help steer them in the right direction. So try to sit down or visit local stores with your partner fairly soon after getting engaged to create your registry. You can always update your registry closer to the wedding if you’ve changed your mind about any items.
Photography by Alyssa Parker Photography
Photography by All The Little Stories Photography
How Do We Let Guests Know Where We’re Registered?
These days most of your wedding registry information will be found on your wedding website. It’s the easiest way to share all of the places you’re registered with your guests and gives them somewhere to refer back to when doing their shopping. If you want to send your guests a physical copy of your registry you can add it as an insert in your invitation. Invites tend to be in many pieces - actual invite, RSVP insert, directions, etc. - so you can use an insert to direct your guests to your wedding website for your registry or list the retailers where you are registered.
Where Should We Register?
With all of the resources we have at our fingertips these days, putting together a wedding registry has never been easier. Registering online with a wedding website like Zola or The Knot will put all of your suggested gifts in one place for guests to view and allows for flexibility when it comes to monetary donations. Both sites have the option to create a honeymoon or home fund and allow your guests to buy gifts together. If you still want to put together a registry the traditional way or can’t find all of your desired items on an online registry, have some fun with a scanner gun and register at places like Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn, Macy’s, or Target.
How Many Registries Is Too Many?
You don’t want to overwhelm your guests with too many registries, but you also want to give them options. It’s a rule of thumb to have three registries - a high-end store, an inexpensive retailer, and a wild card company like a charity or store that reflects your interests. This way, guests don’t feel pressure to buy you the most expensive gift on the list. They can tailor the gift to what you want, but also what’s reasonably within their price range.
Can You Return A Registry Gift?
It’s totally fine to return a registry gift you received. Whether it’s because you received a duplicate, decided you don’t need that gift anymore, or it’s not what you thought it would be, you can make a return without having to notify the guest. But, make sure you still send out a thank you note telling the guest how much you appreciated their thoughtfulness. If you decide to register online with a wedding service like Zola, you can control when your gifts are shipped and keep track of which items on your list have already been purchased.
Photography by Courtney Chau Photography
We hope this was helpful, share this with a bride who is struggling to put together her wedding registry and needs a little extra wedding gift guidance. Happy Shopping!
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