Why register?
A gift registry lets your guests know exactly what you want. This saves their time shopping, and your time returning gifts. Try and register at least six months before your wedding so guests can choose items off your registry for pre-wedding parties and showers as well. Here are some helpful suggestions to use while registering for gifts.

Where to register

• Consider registering at both a national retailer and your favorite local shop.
• Those with online registry services are best for faraway guests so they can either buy online or go to their local store.
• Try and register at two or three stores to give your guests a choice of where to shop for your wedding gift.
• Check with the store’s return and exchange policies to make sure they are flexible, just in case you receive duplicate gifts.

What to register
Be sure to select items in a broad price range to accommodate guests’ budgets. Register with your financé, not a friend. Some of the items you may want to register for include:

• Formal and everyday dinnerware (at least 8 place settings)
• Formal crystal and everyday glassware
• Barware
• Silver and everyday flatware
• Bedding and other linens
• Luggage
• Kitchen utensils
• Small appliances
• Cookware
• Decorations (frames, lamps, vases, etc.)
• Don’t register the same items at more than one store or you could end up with a fleet of blenders rather than one.

Spread the word

• When you sign up for a registry, some stores may give you small cards to insert in your wedding invitations. This can be perceived as an inappropriate or tactless way to tell your guests what you prefer.
• Tell your family and friends where you are registered so they can tell your guests when asked about gift ideas.
• It is perceived as acceptable to note a gift registry at the bottom of shower invitations. To save time, your guests may decide to select your wedding gift while shopping for a shower gift.

Maintain your registry
Try and keep your registry up-to-date. This will help prevent duplication and hassles. Make sure there are plenty of items for your guests to choose from. You may need to make additions if your list gets short.