WEDDING NOTES™ – Gift Registries

Despite the fact that gift registries have been around for nearly a century, there are still couples who resist using them and feel awkward about signing up with their "wish list".  They feel like they are begging for gifts and are embarrassed to do so.  But know this - gift registries are a blessing to both the couple AND THEIR GUESTS.  Guests would prefer to give gifts that they know the couple want and will prize.  They are going to give a gift but would much rather give something sought after.  Help them out and register.

Here are some guidelines to help make the registry lists helpful to both you and your guests.

• Take a look at the guest list and make sure the items for which you are planning to register offer a wide price range.  If lots of your friends are in college or just graduated, they may have a ton of student loans to pay off and can't afford expensive gifts.  Make sure your gift registry has plenty of moderately price items on it.

• Put gift cards on the list.   At one time people felt funny about gift cards, but they are totally acceptable.  They are an easy last minute grab for guests who don't plan ahead and are a lovely bit of spendable "cash" for an item you wanted but didn't put on your gift registry.

• Provide in-store and online options.  The online options are perfect for out of town guests and relatives.  However, remember people who like to lift and touch the items they plan to buy for you.  For them, a bricks and mortar store is a must.

• Ask only for items you really want.  Some wedding planners will say it's ok to include items that you don't particularly want because you can always return them.  Try to avoid that.  It can be a hassle to return things and you can end up having to explain to your favorite aunt why the lamp she purchased for you isn't on the end table as she envisioned it.  Spend time up front and make good choices the first time.

• Consider adding a few personal items to the list.  The bride can add a few things she personally wants and so can the groom.  The items don't need to all be useful around the house.

• Be gracious no matter what the gift is.  You must thank every person for every gift whether you like the item or not and whether it was on your registry or not.  People give you gifts because they care for and about you and want to share in your celebration.  They need to know how important their gift was to you.