How to Build a Thoughtful Wedding Registry
From the second that ring hits your finger, you’re likely showered with happiest wishes, questions, and, quite possibly, gifts. So, today we’re talking about how to build a Thoughtful Wedding Registry and all the other alternatives that you may or may not have yet discovered.
Make a List
Take stock of what you have, what you want, and what you truly need. Most modern couples are already living together, and if not, have fully-stocked separate apartments/homes which means double-everything. If your mishmash of banged up pots & pans needs to be replaced, you really could use some nice bedding or you are still sipping vino out of college team-emblazoned plastic cups, it’s probably time to register for some of these items.
Curate
Build a thoughtful list of items by keeping in mind the following:
Tackle your registry early. You will likely have at least an engagement
party or one shower where you will be gifted items from the list.Choose a good mix of more practical items and only a few trendy/
fun pieces. Your tastes will change, so go with the classics.Pick items at various price points, from smaller gifts like cooking
utensils to one big piece of essential furniture. Most of your registry
items will likely fall in the $25-$100 price point.Go for quality over quantity.
Think outside the home, like tools or luggage.
Photo: Heidi Harris
Photo: Sawyer Baird
Photo: Heidi Harris
Avoid Clutter
Besides editing, there are several other ways to avoid registry clutter:
Store all receipts in one safe place for easy access or returns.
Be prepared for all the cardboard boxes to arrive at your home.
Only keep boxes if you’re really unsure about the item. Don’t forget
to save extra parts or manuals though!Ship to a parent’s or friend’s home for safekeeping if you’re planning
on moving sometime during your engagement. You can set the
mailing address on your registry and update it at any time.
Make it Fun
“Shop” together as a couple, and while doing so, imagine yourselves living in your new home, hosting newlywed dinner parties, or celebrating the holidays as a married couple. Sometimes brides tackle the registry alone, but I find that grooms will always find something they love here and there -- like grilling utensils, or in my case, a hedgehog-shaped doormat.
Consider Alternatives
There are so many alternatives to registering for gifts. In addition to or instead of building a wedding registry, consider the following options, which may be a better fit for your lifestyle or situation:
Honeymoon Fund
New Home Fund
Experiences or Dates
Gift Cards
Charitable donations in lieu of gifts
Check out Honeyfund, Blueprint Registry, and Zola which allow
you to do all of these things and more!
Give Thanks
Keep a good record of all of your gifts received - what, by whom, where (engagement party, bridal shower, etc.), and if a thank you has been mailed. Sync up columns with your guest list for easy tracking. Stock up on Thank You Notes and stamps early and send cards out as you go. Most importantly, write sincerely and your thanks will be so appreciated.
Some additional tips:
Use Amazon or an all-in-one site like those mentioned above to register, which will allow you to choose items from essentially any retailer. Pay attention to return policies, completion discounts, and bonuses so you don’t miss anything. If you don’t want it or need it, return it. Set up a savings account to hold all of the wedding money and accrue interest!
Happy registering!
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