Story last updated at 1:44 PM EST on June 24, 2007 Put thought into creating gift registry list
The bridal registry will take the guesswork out of wedding gifts, but only if it's used correctly by the couple and their guests.
Photo courtesy of Metro Editorial Services
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A marriage doesn't just bring together two people in love, it also serves as the catalyst for merging their worlds into one.
For couples who might have had homes separately before getting married, they might be bringing along housewares, furniture and other decor that's not necessarily of a cohesive style.
This could mean it's time to rethink what should be included in their home together. It typically involves registering for gifts from favorite stores as a way to stock up on items that reflect mutual taste as a couple.
Registries are an invaluable part of the wedding process, and one eagerly anticipated by couples. Registries needn't be limited to just one store or type of retail outlet. In fact, a popular trend in wedding gifts is offering luxurious throws and pillows as opposed to traditional linens and housewares.
Brides- and grooms-to-be also are registering at places such as Lowe's and The Home Depot if they desire miter saws as well as platinum-rimmed china.
The bridal registry will take the guesswork out of wedding gifts, but only if it's used correctly by the couple and their guests.
Here are some guidelines for using registries successfully, courtesy of fashion and home-decor designer Adrienne Landau:
Register three to six months before the wedding. If you register earlier, some seasonal patterns and promotional items might be out of season by your wedding day.
Visit the store during non-peak hours, so you can examine patterns and consider your choices in a relaxed and tranquil environment.
Give yourselves plenty of time to select what you like. These are important decisions, and you should think them over. Many brides-to-be initially go into stores alone or browse online to narrow their selections, then return with their partners to make final decisions.
Take advantage of registry consultants. These experts are invaluable sources of advice about everything from wedding etiquette to recommended place-setting amounts.
Register in a variety of price ranges. Include high-priced gifts for guests who can afford them and less-expensive gifts for shower guests and guests on limited budgets.
Use your imagination. China, crystal, silver, linen and housewares are classic wedding gifts — and perennial favorites with brides and grooms — but consider registering for other items, as well.
Don't overlap. Register for each item in one store only. Otherwise, you might get frazzled keeping track of gifts that have and haven't been purchased or end up with duplicates.
Never announce your registration in wedding invitations — this implies that gifts are as important to you as guests. Friends and family can make sure word gets out.
Keep a running gift list. Make a note of each item you receive, who sent it and any thoughts that come to mind when you unwrap it on a master note pad. This will make writing thank-you notes easier. Once gifts start piling up, cards are easily misplaced, and your memory becomes unreliable.
Maintain your bridal registry. Many stores will keep a registry active for a year or more. This way you can see what wasn't purchased and fill in items you really desire. Additionally, some guests will refer to the registry for anniversary gift ideas.
— Metro Editorial Services
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