Whether you’re perusing the internet to choose your registry items or clutching a scanner gun in the aisles of your favorite home store… registering for a wedding can be a stressful process. The idea sounds so fun, but when it really comes down to it – sometimes it feels like what you register for is just as big of a commitment as WHO you’re marrying! Well lucky for you, we totally get it. And we’re here to save you from all that unwanted registry shopping stress so you can actually enjoy this should-be-fun experience! Here are 9 simple tips that will help make registering an absolute breeze.
Getting ready to register? Check out our registry guide for more tips, links, and inspiration.
Be true to you
What’s your style? The whole point of your registry is to create a wish list for what you want to start your new life. It should reflect your own personal look and feel as a couple. Look through pictures together and talk about colors and patterns you both like. Discuss your entertaining priorities. Do you love to cook? What appliances will you actually use? Will you host family for the holidays? That gravy boat might seem superfluous now—until you consider the Thanksgiving meal you want to host in the future.
Take stock
One of the best ways to figure out what you need is to inventory what you already have. From that list, decide what you want to keep and what you want to upgrade with registry items. Now is a good time to update linens, flatware, and cookware, at least. Fill in the gap with three categories: what you need now, what you’ll need in five years, and heirloom pieces to pass down to your children. Need help figuring out essentials? Let Wayfair’s registry checklist be your guide!
Look for perks
Limit the number of registries to just a few stores or even one only store. A great way to decide where to register is to look for perks for both you and your guests. Consider benefits for your guests like online shopping and direct shipping. For example, Wayfair makes it SO easy for you to manage your registry and for your guests to order online! They offer free shipping, free returns, group gifting (major bonus!), completion discounts (an extra 10% off), a registry checklist for you to stay organized and SO much more!
Register early
You can (and should) start registering soon after you get engaged. It’s helpful for guests purchasing gifts for pre-wedding festivities, like an engagement party, bridal shower, etc. And you’ll get more items from your wish list. Win-win!
Visit in person
Don’t rely solely on pictures, it can be very beneficial for you to check out the product in person just to triple check that you love it! The items on your registry should reflect the quality and style you want in your home. The best way to guarantee you’ll love them is to see and compare in person. How else are you supposed to pick the perfect sheets?
Make it a date
Marriage is all about compromise – and so is your registry. At the end of the day, the gifts are for both of you. Go register together to ensure you both get what you want. Take turns taking lead on areas you’re more passionate about. For instance, you might care more about the china, while he’s focused on the bedding. Celebrate a job well done with fun cocktails or a romantic dinner to cap the day.
Pick price options
It might be tempting to register for mostly high-priced items. It is a wish list, after all! But your registry should consider guests’ budgets. Vary the price points, so friends and family can all find options they can afford. Think about thresholds: under $50, under $100, under $200, etc.
Set the table
Even if your apartment only holds six people and one dog, register for 8-12 complete place settings. Odds are at some point in your life, you’ll host a group dinner or a holiday celebration. And if your “fun uncle” accidentally breaks a salad plate, you’ll have a backup. Register for extra barware too. Wine glasses are notoriously fragile.
Add more items
Rule of thumb: the number of registry items should at least double your guest list. Again, people want options – especially if they’re buying multiple gifts for wedding and pre-wedding celebrations. Check back a few weeks before the wedding. If you’re running low on items, register for more as-needed. If you under-register, you might end up with presents you’ll never use. Or worse, gifts you don’t want and can’t return!
Bonus: Say Thank You!
Don’t forget the thank-you notes! Show your appreciation by writing and mailing your notes in a timely manner—two weeks for gifts received before the wedding and one month after your honeymoon for gifts received during or after.
Getting ready to register? Check out our registry guide for more tips, links, and inspiration.
Style Me Pretty Contributor – Madeline Littrell is a Dallas-based writer and PR strategist. Born and raised in Tennessee, she loves big hair, country music, and chicken fingers.
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