With so many things to attend to as you begin to plan your wedding, it’s important to also remember what comes after the wedding- the marriage itself! As you prepare for a new life together, a wedding registry just makes sense. Wedding guests are often happy to shower you with gifts they’ll know you’ll need and love, plus it’s wonderful to give your guests a glimpse of your new home’s style. But be careful- you don’t want to offend guests or step outside the lines of protocol when it comes to a wedding registry.
Fortunately, the wedding experts at Conklyn’s Weddings have created a list of Do’s and Don’ts to help you navigate the world of wedding registries! Check out some of these best practices… and which ones to leave behind.
DO register early. Four to six months prior to your wedding date is recommended. This give guests ample time to review your registry and find something they’re excited to gift you.
DON’T register all in one day. Take several days over a week or two to revisit stores, think about patterns and generally mull over your decisions before finalizing your registry.
DO register in multiple stores and online sites. Give your guests a few options for shopping, including the convenience of online shopping like Wayfair, Zola, Amazon and The Knot, as well as the ability to walk into a brick-and-mortar store like Target to see their purchase for themselves.
DON’T overdo it or get too specific. While you may love the cute local boutique in your hometown, out-of-state guests will have a hard time shopping beforehand. Only choose three to four stores to include in your registry, adding variety but not spreading yourself (or your guests) too thin.
DO register for enough gifts that all of your guests will have buying options. Many stores have a completion discount for finishing out your registry after the big day, and many will hold your registry open for a while to allow guests who didn’t make it to the wedding to still send a gift.
DON’T register only for big ticket items. Spread the choices among smaller, less expensive choices and a few pricier selections. Some guests may choose to cluster lots off small items into a combined basket-style gift (picture a basket full of kitchen utensils or all of your guest bathroom decor), so add plenty of inexpensive, individual items as well.
DO add registry information to your wedding website. Guests will have all the information they need at their fingertips and you’ll be able to keep track for thank-you notes later.
DON’T print registry information on your formal wedding invitation. Some things are still held sacred and formal invitations are one of them. If you must, include a separate printed paper in the invitation packet with specific and necessary information, such as directions to the ceremony and reception. The registry information can be included here.
DO choose to get creative with your wedding registry. If you and your spouse-to-be have all the essentials, think about a honeymoon fund (see Honeyfund), contributions to a fun adventure (see If Only) or stock portfolio.
DON’T ask for cash. You will most likely receive money from guests anyway, but remember this is a gift, not an entitlement. Let your guests choose what they’ll give you.
While you’re preparing for your wedding, your guests are too! They’ll love perusing your selections and picturing your beautifully decorated home or holiday table as they skim through your registry. Showing guests what you love is a great way to set a tone for your future together and include your friends and loved ones in the journey. For more ideas about creating your wedding registry, talk to the professionals at Conklyn’s Weddings. We’re here to help you design every perfect detail of your special day.