Most couples register for gifts about six months before the big day. If you create a registry earlier, you may end up with discontinued items on your list. Besides, most guests don’t start shopping for a gift until they’re invited to a wedding shower or the wedding itself.
After you register, make frequent updates to the list. Once a week, check your selections to be sure they’re still available and consider adding additional items once others are purchased. Above all, be sure to have variety in your choices. Give guests many gift ideas in a wide range of prices from small kitchen items like spatulas and cutting boards to bath accessories from shower curtains to towels. For non-traditional items like grilling sets, register for a few big ticket items like a BBQ and then include smaller, less expensive accessories such as grill thermometers or grilling mitts.
Some couples decide to register at a few stores. That can be a good idea because many guests don’t always have access to the one store you’ve selected. In recent years, it’s been popular to register with two stores: first, a large or mid-sized department store for household items such as bedding or cutlery. The second registry is with a discount store that has lots of household knickknacks like lamps, coffee mugs, alarm clocks and coasters.
Registry Etiquette
Don’t ask for money—it’s an etiquette no-no. Guests who want to give you a cash gift will do so on their own. They don’t need a reminder. It’s also taboo for the bride or the groom to announcing where you’re registered. After all, it seems like you’re asking, or worse demanding gifts. Don’t include registry info in an invitation. Instead, have a family friend or a member of the bridal party inform guests.
Once you receive gifts, start sending out thank you notes. Send notes right away so you won’t forget to thank anyone. Remember this is your chance to express your gratitude for your guest’s thoughtfulness.