Thinking of a Gift Registry?

What is a Wedding Gift Registry?
Glad you asked. A wedding gift registry is a computerized list the Happy Couple fills out at a department or other store listing the specific gifts they desire. Anyone wishing to purchase a gift from the registry can go to the store or visit the store’s website and request the list in that person’s name. If at the store, a salesperson will print out the list so you can begin shopping, otherwise the list will appear online.

Convenience
The best part of purchasing a gift from a wedding gift registry is knowing you’re giving something the Happy Couple truly wants or needs. The registry will list specific colors, patterns and how many of each are needed. This cuts down on having to return unwanted or inappropriate gifts. Once a gift is purchased, that item is removed from the list preventing duplication.

Items on a Gift Registry
What items are usually on a gift registry? These days it can be anything! China patterns, linens, blankets, pots and pans, knick knacks, even wall hangings. If it’s part of the store’s inventory it can be included on the wedding gift registry. The bride and groom should fill the registry with items they’re sure to use. If they don’t enjoy Chinese cooking, there’s no sense in including a wok. They shouldn’t have check off items for the sake of having them on the list. Hopefully each item is carefully thought out.

Stores
It’s not unusual for a couple to desire different items in different stores, and this is perfectly acceptable. A bride and groom can register in as many stores as they’d like, providing gift givers with a wide assortment of choices. There’s nothing wrong in registering at Macy's, JC Penney, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, Bed Bath & Beyond, Palacios, Bared, Pier 1 or all at the same time.

How Much to Spend
It’s been rumored that a wedding gift must cost as least as much as the “per head” cost of each wedding guest. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. There’s no set amount and you should spend what you can afford, nothing more. The bride and groom will be appreciative of your thoughtfulness no matter how you spend. Wedding registries contain gifts for all price ranges. There’s no shame in passing over the most expensive items in favor of one more in your price range.

A wedding registry is a convenient way to purchase a gift you know the bride and groom will be happy to own. There’s nothing to say you have to purchase a gift specifically from the registry, however. If there’s something you wish to give the Happy Couple and it’s not on the list, by all means purchase it anyway. It’s sure to be appreciated either way.