Wedding Registry Guide

Whether you've got a list a mile long or don't have a clue where to start, your wedding registry is a central part of the event. It helps your guests know exactly what you want — so no worrying about gift receipts and whether you'd rather have a towel set in lavender or seafoam green. That means fewer returns and unwanted presents for you. The registry also helps you keep track of gifts, so guests can mark off what they've purchased, and you don't receive duplicates.

Putting together the registry can be daunting. There are a lot of decisions involved, so we've compiled a guide on how to make the perfect wedding registry. Keep reading for more information on locations, a wedding registry checklist and tips for building up your list.

Where Can I Create a Wedding Registry?

The list of options for wedding registry locations is pretty endless. Traditional options include places like Williams Sonoma, Bed Bath & Beyond, Pottery Barn and Target. These are more focused on home goods, which typically make up a large chunk of the list. Another option that's gained popularity is online retailers, such as Amazon and Wayfair. These retailers offer a nearly endless variety of products, so if you have your eye on items that range from home goods to electronics to fitness accessories, a place like Amazon or a big-box store like Walmart or Target can help cut down on the number of registries you need. Other, more unique places you could make registries for include furniture stores like Ikea, electronics stores like Best Buy and outdoorsy places like REI. 

On the topic of the number of registries, you'll want to register at more than one place. Typically, about two to four registries is a good number. It gives your guests options, but doesn't overwhelm them or look like you're asking for too many presents. You should, however, register for more gifts than guests who will be attending. Adding extra items provides more choices and takes events like bridal showers into consideration.

 

When you register for more than one place, you could designate each one for different types of items, like bedding, home and kitchen, for organization's sake. That way, you won't double up on requesting gifts from different stores.

What to Add on a Wedding Registry

While some of the most common items are home goods and kitchenware, a wedding registry can include any number of things. Many couples will add items like electronics, outdoorsy equipment or travel accessories. Some couples will even create honeymoon or travel funds, where guests chip in for a dream excursion, or ask for cash, which they should aim to do tactfully.

Below is a handy wedding registry checklist.

1. Home

Getting married means setting up your home for your new life together. Some everyday registry items for the home include the following.

• Towel set
• Vacuum
• Divided laundry baskets
• Organization tools, like drawer dividers and space-saving boxes
• Smart home devices, such as a Google Home, Amazon Echo Dot, Nest Thermostat, security cameras or a smart light set
• TV
• Mirror
• Pet accessories, like a bed or food bowls
• Decor
• Air purifier
• Audio devices, such as a portable speaker, soundbar system, record player or headphones
• Gaming systems

When looking at items like furniture, decor and linens, remember to factor in how well they'll match in your home. If you're starting a new color scheme, talk it over with your partner, so you're both on the same page.

2. Kitchen

Cook up some romance in the kitchen with quality items, like:

• A cookware set
• Measuring cups
• Mixing or serving bowls
• Baking sheets
• Small appliances, such as a quality blender, mixer, waffle maker, toaster oven or slow cooker
• Glassware, including barware like wine glasses and champagne flutes
• Spice rack
• Knife set
• A coffee maker or espresso machine
• Cutting board
• Cookware items, like a Dutch oven, cast-iron skillet or wok
• Glass container set
• Serving tray
• Dinnerware and silverware set
• Cheeseboard

3. Bedding

After all the chaos of the wedding is over, get some cozy new bedding to relax in. Some ideas include:

• Pillows
• Sheets
• Comforter or duvet
• Mattress or topper
• Blankets
• Throw pillows

4. Other

If you're the kind of couple who likes to go camping or one of you is a bit of a gym rat, you can also use your registry to ask for items related to your interests, like:

• Fitness tools, such as a tracker, dumbbells, yoga mat or elliptical trainer
• Camping equipment, like a tent, cooler, inflatable mattress or backpack
• A grill, for the outdoor chef
• Luggage or travel accessories
• A camera or lens, for travelers or photographers

  Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Wedding Registry

  Coming up with the list might be the hard part, but there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother. Here are a few tips for creating a wedding registry that can help you out along the way.

  • Watch for discounts: Many retailers offer some form of completion discount, which gives you a percentage off any items remaining on the registry after the wedding. Usually, this discount is somewhere around 15%.
  • Make the list quickly: If you get your list going right after announcing your engagement, guests can use it during other events like a bridal shower. They can also use it to send you a little congratulations after the announcement.
  • Include a variety: Provide options for your guests across price points and interests. While your tech-savvy best friend might love to get you the latest electronic gadget, your older relatives may feel more comfortable getting you some fine china. And of course, some of your guests won't be in a position to purchase higher-ticket items.
  • Update your list: Your needs might change in the months leading up to the wedding, and that's fine. Keep an eye on your list and update it as needed.
  • Know the sales process: Many registries make things easy for your guests by offering ordering options online or in-store. They can often send items directly to the address you have on file.
  • Share the registry: While putting the registry info on the invites is a big no-no, you should include it on your wedding website. You could also have the host of your bridal shower or engagement party include it on those invitations.

  Wedding Bands From Koser Jewelers

  Most of your wedding planning sets you up for the big day, but the ultimate wedding registry will equip your home for years and years. It helps your guests know exactly what you need to start your new life together. So spend some time on it. Get together with your partner and plan your registry carefully.

  Another critical piece of wedding planning that won't be part of the registry is your wedding bands. Make sure you know where and when to get them far in advance. In Lancaster, PA, Koser Jewelers is here to help. We offer a wide variety of bands to help you speak without words and express your love in a piece of jewelry that stays with your partner always. We back our high-quality diamond jewelry with a lifetime warranty, and our expert staff of gemologists, jewelers and goldsmiths is here to serve you. Plus, with 0% APR options, you can spend that saved money buying any remaining registry items.

  Browse our online selection for men's and women's wedding bands, or visit us in person to meet with a specialist.