Wedding Registry: Creating One

Creating Your Wedding Registry

It's never too early, or late, to create a wedding registry. Whether you've just gotten engaged or will tie the knot in a few weeks, now is the time to get your list together. Family and friends may want to mail you a gift before the wedding, or they may personally present you with a package at your engagement party, shower, or reception. Crafting a registry may seem a bit overwhelming, but not to worry- we've got five essential tips that will take you through the process from start to finish.

1. What do you need, what do you want?

Some items on your list may be things you've never owned before but would love to have; an espresso machine, an outdoor grill, or a plasma TV. Some items may be essential to stocking your new home; towels and linens, a bake ware set, or a microwave oven. And some items that you currently have may be in need of replacing; that mismatched set of dishes, those worn out pots and pans, or that pair of champagne glasses that seems to have become a single.

2. Choose multiple stores.

Give your guests options by registering at several different places. Create lists at two or three stores of varying price and product. For example, you may register at a department store (such as Bloomingdale's or Macy's) for fine china and other high ticket items, at a discount store (such as Target or Wal-Mart) for more frugal alternatives, and at a specialty store (such as Bed, Bath, and Beyond or Crate and Barrel) for specific items like linens, bath accessories, and storage containers.

3. Ask about rules and returns.

Of the several stores you choose, be aware of each of the stores' perks and policies. How long will your registry remain active after the wedding? Can guests shop online as well as in the store? Do you need a gift receipt in order to return the item? Once the item is returned, will you receive cash or a store credit? Once your wedding day has come and gone, will you receive a discount on items not purchased from your registry? These are all valid questions to present to your preferred registry locations.

4. It's a couples' thing.

Now is not the time for parental participation. Though mom may be able to suggest how many place settings to register for, the particular pattern of your plates should be picked out by you and your partner. After all, the two of you will be the ones living with it! Creating your registry is a fun bonding activity. You'll have the opportunity to talk about the future and shop without spending a dime!

5. Easy etiquette.

There are some essential rules to remember when registering. To begin, never include your registry information on your wedding invitations- it's bad form. Registry information can, however, be incorporated in a shower invitation as this event will be thrown for you by a friend or family member. Otherwise, word of mouth is the best way to inform guests about your gift giving preferences. Also, keep an eye on the number of items that have been purchased from your registry. If only a handful of gifts remain before the final weeks of the wedding, consider adding a few more to the list. This will give guests more options and give you a chance to include that cool new clock you've had your eye on! Finally, remember to give thanks. Write a note within 48-hours for any gifts received before the wedding. Once you've returned from the honeymoon, make sure your remaining thank-you cards are mailed no more than one month afterward.

Author Hugh Parker: Senta Parker photography is the buzz in wedding photography and her resource center is jam packed with helpful articles that address all the needs of those planing a wedding. Her site is unique so join the buzz and visit us by clicking Wedding Rings Thank you Hugh Parker.

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