For a couple ready to tie the knot, there’s a lot to plan and prepare with respect to the life ahead. A gift registry is a great way to let family, friends and other well-wishers bless and support the couple’s union through gift-giving. The registry takes the guesswork out of figuring out where and what to buy. Coming up with a list of gifts shouldn’t be an afterthought. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Register Early and Often
With all the details that need to be covered for an upcoming ceremony, it’s easy for your registry to slip through the cracks. It’s important to create your gift registry as early as possible. Pre-wedding activities such as engagement parties are opportunities for attendees to shower you with presents, so you’ll need to create a registry early enough to provide guidance. It’s also a good idea to register at multiple stores, which allows you to specify items at a range of price points.
Let Love Lead the Way
Wedding ceremonies are steeped in tradition, and you may feel obligated to select certain gift items. It’s your life! Choose objects that you and your partner will actually love and use. A registry is only limited by the types of items that a particular retailer carries. There’s no rule that says you should indicate home goods only. If a power tool or electronic appliance is what you really want and it’s available, add it to your list!
Think About Your Needs
While your registry should include items that you and your spouse-to-be want, consider the needs of your life together. Think about the home that the two of you will share. You may need goods for entertaining, from casual get-togethers to more formal occasions. It will be nice to have flatware, tableware and glassware to host different types of events. Are there DIY projects on your to-do list? Keep this in mind as you build your registry.
Mix, Match and Coordinate
When putting together a registry, think about how the items listed do or don’t coordinate. Your tableware doesn’t have to come from the same set, but you should think about how it will work with your table linens. If you have furniture listed, will it work with the other potential gifts, even from other retailers? Consider a liquor cabinet or curio display of a particular style and finish. Will it clash or complement the items displayed within?
Ask for Help
Coming up with gift registries can be overwhelming for the both of you. Look for retailers who have professionals who will walk you through the process. They can advise you of items to include and help you find products that you will love. You can also solicit the wisdom of friends and family. Do you know someone with excellent taste? Include him or her in the process. Building a registry can be a group affair, just like shopping for a dress or sampling cakes.
Consider Special Items
Some guests may be interested in buying special gifts as opposed to typical registry fare. If you don’t want guests to come up with their own gift ideas, consider items that are quirky, heirloom or have other special qualities that you love. Gift-giving is a love language, especially from friends and family, and this provides an opportunity for those who are so inclined to do something different.
Think Outside the Box
A gift registry isn’t just limited to goods to be used in the home. Consider a honeymoon registry for things that you and your partner would enjoy or need for a vacation. Are there charitable organizations that you love? You can request donations in lieu of presents.
A wedding registry is an opportunity for your loved ones to bless your union with offerings that make you and your future spouse happy. Be sure to make it your own.
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