Its an exciting time. You and your fiance walk into a store, maybe you did some research and know the things you want to register for, maybe you didn't, but without fail you get the scan gun, and all of a sudden you need everything in the store. Its chaos. How could you possibly live without those individual dessert trays not even big enough for a scope of ice cream? Or you live in a shoe box apartment, but have to have formal china, casual china, and everyday dishes. And to top it off you know you'll have more than 12 people to dinner at a single time, so you need 16, 20, 24 of each!
Calm down, and breath. On your initial visit, scan everything you think you could want. Its okay to scan a million different toothbrush holders and those individual dessert plates. Let your fiance have control of the gun, ask his opinions on different things. Chances are he won't care about the soap dish for the guest bath, but at least you asked him and included him in the making of your home. Trust me, your initial registry will not be the final one.
After you've scanned to your hearts content, go home and think about the things you really need. Check out my Registry 101 post for a complete list of registry items. See what you and your fiance already have. Have a really nice blender you got for your 21st birthday? You probably don't need a new one. Also, make sure your items fit a variety of price points. Your registry will be used for more than just your wedding. Showers, engagement parties, and holidays; expect items from your registry. Once you've decided exactly what you're going to need and how many of each, view your registries online. Make sure you have your check list handy :)
Next, stores are so user friendly to their shoppers now. Almost all allow consumers to post reviews on their products. If so, read the reviews on the products you registered for. Love that comforter set? How much do love it? What if 180 people out of 200 gave it a 1 star? Would you love it after its shredded to bits before your 1st anniversary? Reviews are a great resource, but should be taken lightly. As a personal principle, I tried not to register for anything with a less than 3 star review. There are so many products out there to choose from, chances are you'll find something similar that's much more user friendly. If you absolutely love it, and other people didn't give it the best reviews, go ahead a try it. Maybe you'll be the lucky one it works out well for.
Fourth. Give your registry some time to grow on you. Check frequently to see if any items are discontinued or on clearance. Chances are guests won't be able to purchase them for you. Its okay to update and change your registry often. Think about the place you'll be living. Do things flow with the space? If you're renting, its okay for things to not flow. But if you own your home, think of your little pet peeves. My fiance just bought our first house (Merry Christmas to me!). Our bathroom registries were all for rubbed oil bronze accessories from a variety of sets. Our house has chrome fixtures in all the bathrooms. Knowing myself, I immediately changed the registry to chrome accessories. Changing the registry was much easier than trying to change the faucets in all the bathrooms.
Fifth. Its also okay and often preferred by your guest to have options with your registries. Registering at more than one store has major advantages for you. Your selection increases and you get to have exactly what you want. I love JCP Home Brand towels. To me, they are simply the best. I also prefer their bed linens. So I went ahead and registered for most of my linens at JCP. Whereas, Bed Bath and Beyond has a greater selection of kitchen items. So my kitchen will be decked out from BBB. Look around at different stores and see who has the items you like best. Your family and friends will most likely thank you for registering at a variety of places. It gives them more options, especially if you have out of town guests. Check to see what stores offer free shipping, in store pickup, or layaway for weddings. Proper etiquette suggests never showing up to a wedding gift in hand. Instead, you're supposed to ship them to the couple or have them available for them to pick up. Of course, expect people to show up with gifts in hand, but some may follow proper tradition!
Sixth. Once you've registered and are comfortable with your registry, check on incentive programs. Some companies offer free items if you've registered for or receive certain items on your registry. Even though you may not need a Calphalon Cookbook, I bet a friend is getting married, having a house warming party, or needing a quick gift soon. Re-gift it at her with some cute kitchen towels or gadgets. Always take advantage of "free" items- I store the ones I don't need in a box as quick gifts :)
And finally, tell people about your registry! Its actually poor etiquette to stick the registry announcements in with your invitations or shower announcements. This almost sends the signal that you're inviting people to your wedding, but only if they bring you a gift. Instead, spread the word by creating a wedding website and utilizing small talk to tell people where to go. Almost all wedding websites have a section for you to post your registry information. This gives your guests a handy place to find it, without demanding the bring you the $200 a plate china set. Even after you spread the word about your registry, its okay to change your mind and update it. If you have some technologically challenged people, like I do in my family, stick the registry announcements in their invitations. This is a favor to them, and chances are if they know you well enough to let you know they don't meld with technology, they're probably going to get you a gift anyways :)
Ideas on Places to Register:
Bed Bath and Beyond: www.bedbathandbeyond.com
Kohls: www.kohls.com
Target: www.target.com
JCP: www.jcpenney.com
Macy's: www.macys.com
Pottery Barn: www.potterybarn.com/registry/
Williams Sonoma: www.williams-sonoma.com
Crate&Barrel: www.crateandbarrel.com
Amazon: www.amazon.com
Local shops and stores- most of them will set up an account for you :)
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