A Comprehensive Guide To Compiling A Wedding Registry

Here's your need-to-know guide that covers what you should know when making a gift registry so you can get what you want.

Your gift registry gives you the perfect chance to take stock of things that you and your SO will or want in your home as newlyweds and beyond.

While planning a wedding, big or small, can be stressful, making your gift registry doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you compile your wedding registry:

Rather More Than Less

It may take you by surprise how many people reach out and want to buy a gift wanting details about items on your registry. Give people sufficient choice and various options at different price points.

Timing Is Everything

When stuck in the whirlwind of planning the wedding, you may push back your registry. Ideally, you want to compile your registry sooner than later, so sometime after the engagement would be great. In that way, people are not under pressure to just grab and go when shopping.

Think Ahead

You may not see the importance of that gravy boat now, but in a few years, when you're planning to host friends and family, you'll be kicking yourself for not having thought about it. Try to think of timeless pieces in this regard, so you don't end up with a bunch of outdated items.

Useable Gifts

People often fall into the habit of getting the prettiest sets and finest Chinas but let them collect dust. Since so many couples have already been living together before getting married and possibly have brought a few of their own items to make their place homey, this the perfect opportunity to trade out those old items you don't really like.

Think Non-Essentials Too

While thinking ahead for the things you might need in the future is great, not all your items need to be the most pragmatic pieces. Include items for your list that are sentimental and just for you and your partner.

Mixing And Matching

Sometimes you have something on your registry that could easily be paired with another gift, like a cookbook with a set of tongs. Add fillers like candles to your registry to go with other gifts.

Personalize It

It's okay not to have a traditional registry. Not everyone loves spending their time in the kitchen or wants decor items. Know yourself and your partner and think about how you want your registry to help you out.

Shop Around

Look at what kinds of perks and discounts you can get at stores. Some places will offer you a discount on items that you don't receive.