Wedding Registry Guide
Wedding registries have been around since 1924, and while a lot has changed in the last century, something remains true – your friends and family still want to celebrate your commitment with a gift! Luckily, they no longer have to shop in person or go to multiple department stores. Thanks to the internet and other technological advances, couples now use universal registries that encapsulate everything they could need or want. Follow along in this complete guide for all the dos and don’ts of a modern-day wedding registry.
When do I start my wedding registry?
There is no such thing as being too early when setting up your registry. As long as you and your partner are engaged, it is appropriate. Many wedding experts suggest that creating your registry within one to two weeks of getting engaged is best. Creating your registry is a must-do before any wedding shower invites are sent out, so you can avoid receiving gifts from friends and family that may be duplicates or may not be useful!
Where do I start my wedding registry?
Here’s some good news for all newly engaged couples – nowadays setting up a registry is hard to get wrong. There are so many platforms that offer universal registries that include any categories imaginable. Some of the most popular and user-friendly platforms are Amazon, Target, The Knot Registry, Zola, and so many more.
Check out this in-depth guide to the best registry websites by The Oasis Estate, “The 25 Best Wedding Registry Websites and Stores for All Brides”.
What items should I put on my wedding registry?
When curating your registry item list, it's good to have a mix of needs and wants. One good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that anything you’re putting on your registry should be for your household or something that can be enjoyed or used by both you and your partner.
Here are a few categories with appropriate examples of good items to help you and your partner start your lives together!
Kitchen Appliances:
Blender
Coffee maker
Toaster/toaster oven
Food processor
Stand mixer
Cookware and Bakeware:
Pots and pans set
Bakeware set
Cast iron skillet
Tableware:
Dinnerware set
Flatware (silverware)
Glassware (wine glasses, water glasses)
Serving dishes and platters
Bedding and Linens:
Bed sheets and pillowcases
Comforter or duvet
Towel sets
Kitchen towels
Home Decor:
Wall art
Picture frames
Decorative vases
Candles and candle holders
Furniture:
Quality furniture pieces
Bookshelves
Nightstands
Dresser
Electronics:
Smart home devices
Speaker system
Vacuum cleaner
Outdoor and Entertaining:
Grill
Patio Furniture
Outdoor games
Barware set
Board games
Travel and Experiences:
Luggage set
Gift cards for experiences (dining, travel, entertainment)
Registry Funds:
Cash or honeymoon fund
Home improvement fund
Organization and Storage:
Storage containers
Closet organizers
Laundry hamper
Appliances:
Microwave
Dishwasher
Vacuum cleaner
Bedroom Essentials:
Mattress topper
Pillows
Bedside lamps
Subscription Services:
Streaming services
Meal kit subscriptions
What items should I NOT put on my wedding registry?
There are a few big no-no’s when it comes to customizing your registry. Here are a few.
Cash Requests: While it's common to have a honeymoon fund or cash registry, explicitly asking for cash gifts can be considered impolite. Instead, use more subtle language such as "registry fund" or a "wishing well."
Overly Personal Items: Intimate or overly personal items may make some guests uncomfortable. Keep in mind that your registry is shared with others, so choose items that are appropriate for a wide range of guests.
Expensive Items Without Alternatives: Including high-ticket items without more affordable alternatives may put pressure on guests with varying budgets. Ensure your registry has a range of price points so all friends and family can participate in celebrating your recent life milestone.
Wedding registry etiquette
It’s important to acknowledge the generosity and thoughtfulness of your friends and family who took the time to choose and give you a gift for your wedding, so make sure you’re sending out thank you notes. If you receive the gift before the wedding, sending the note within two to three weeks is important. If you receive the gift after the wedding, sending a note within three months is acceptable.
Check out these super cute and simple thank-you cards from Zazzle that will make your note-writing a breeze here.
At the end of the day, a registry is a tool for the people who love you most to gain insight into what you and your partner need in order to start this next chapter of your lives. There is no right or wrong when it comes to a registry, just create a list of items that accurately reflect you and your partner's lives and activities!