Detroit Area Wedding Guide
Gift Registries
Using Gift Registries
Gift registries seem to be very helpful while at the same time seem a little bold. Many people see the gift registry as a way to aid them in their shower and wedding gift selections while others believe, it is just plain rude to ask for a particular gift. Regardless of the opinions surrounding gift registries, we will discuss the positive aspects of gift registries and why most brides sign up for at least one registry.
The gift registry is nothing new. Fine china and crystal stores have touted the service for years. Traditionally the idea behind a registry was to let people know about a couple's chosen china, crystal and silverware patterns so that they did not receive all sorts of mixed pieces. By registering the patterns, the couple could complete their sets with a few pieces from many guests rather than the complete set from one guest which was probably beyond most people's reach in terms of money spent on a wedding gift.
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Gift registries have expanded today to include almost anything on the bride and groom's wish list. The items can be as simple as a particular colored egg timer to large kitchen appliances. Usually the colors of the home are included as well as the number required of each item. For example, the house may have two bathrooms of different colors, which need towels, mats and shower curtains.
The registry can be formally registered at one or many stores or it can be informally listed on the couple's wedding website. For years, the hostess of the bridal shower would state the type of shower on the invitations thereby informing guests what was requested in the way of types of gifts. The invitations would usually include the bride's clothing size if a personal shower was the theme, the sizes of the bed mattresses, and favorite colors as well to help with purchases of linens, towels and accessories.
For out of town guests, major department stores may list registries on their websites. To search the list, guests usually only need to know either name of the couple. Indeed, the bride and groom may decide to use online services to make it easier for everyone to access the list and discreetly choose an appropriate gift in their price range.
Benefits of a Gift Registry for the Couple:
couple receives colors that match the household
couple receives the sizes and shapes they need
there are less items to return due to receiving varying patterns
discreet - the bride doesn't have to say "oh well I would love this"
saves money by not having to buy all the accessories for the house
Benefits of a Gift Registry for the Guests:
can choose gifts with a price point in their comfort zone
helps with surprise showers - do not need to tip off the bride by asking about what she needs
saves time by looking at only things on the list
avoids buying something someone else has purchased
gives the guests the opportunity to pool their resources and buy something larger
provides convenience because the store will deliver the gift all gift wrapped with a personal gift tag if guests live out of town or cannot attend the wedding
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Points to Remember when Compiling a Gift Registry
add gifts in all price ranges so that guests do not feel obligated to buy expensive items
as wedding gifts arrive and you open the gifts, remove items from the lists that are no longer required and add other items as you think of them
let people know about the registry by posting on your personal wedding website
let your maid of honor and bridesmaids know where you have setup registries so they can tell others
add practical everyday items to the list as well - if you are not living together already, you will need things such as spices, different flours, baking supplies, soaps for the bathroom, laundry and kitchen
add fun things as well such as barbecue supplies, outdoor furniture, fondue sets
Final Words on Gift Registries:
Try to register with at least one national "bricks and mortar" store - there are still many people who prefer to shop in person as opposed to purchasing online. They may review the list online but will not purchase sight unseen.
In cases where your registries are considered non-traditional such as furniture and electronics, be sure to add more traditional gifts as well because many people still follow etiquette when sending wedding presents.
Do not make people feel like they must buy items on the gift registry. When guests inquire about what you need, be polite and do not respond with "our registry is here".
Do not feel badly if people do their own thing. The issue is not whether they choose a gift that you want but rather, the fact that they honored you with a wedding gift.
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