Wedding Wednesday: Gift Registry - To Do and Not To Do

 

DO

1. Register Early. From the minute people hear of your engagement they are going to want to send gifts. 
2. Register for a range of gifts in varying price points. People like to choose from a wide range of gifts so as a barometer, if you have invited 100 people to your wedding register for a minimum of 125 items.  From this list you should have 1/3 of the items under $50, 1/3 from $50-$200 and the rest over that price range. If you register for all high priced items you will be unpleasantly surprised by how many off your registry items you get. 
3. Register for the basics. Though it's fun to register for bone china and crystal don’t forget about the every day items such as bath towels and everyday dishes.
4. Register for items that reflect you as a couple: You will want to register for some traditional items but it is also fun to show your personality as a couple. For example, if you are both cooking enthusiasts register for cooking classes along with your pots and pans.  Or, if you enjoy wine tasting register for a wine of the month club. 
5. Wait to use all presents until after the wedding: Heaven forbid the event not take place.  Yet, if it doesn’t, etiquette dictates that all gifts must be returned. 
6. Write considerate, prompt thank you notes: Thank you notes should be written within 6 weeks after the wedding.  Phone calls and e-mails do not count.  Notes should be handwritten and should address the giver and the gift specifically.  We recommend making a list of the gift and giver when opening your gifts so when it comes time to write your thank you notes you won’t need to rely on your memory. 

DON’T

1. Register at one location. Two to three is ideal and at least one of them should have a brick and mortar store.  Though most people will purchase your gifts online there will be guests that wish to go in-store themselves for your gift, like your Nana.
2. Never, ever reference your registry on any wedding stationary such as the Save The Date card or Invitation. You can include the URL for your wedding website on such stationary – the website will then have info on where you are registered.  If asked directly by a guest what sort of gift you would like you may then tell them where you are registered. 
3. Ask for money instead of gifts. If you wish for cash your best option is to not register anywhere and hope your guests get the hint.  Family could help spread the word but you and your bride/groom must keep mum.