Bridal Registering started over 50 years ago as a convenience for both the wedding couple and their guests, not to mention a boon to the department stores. Last year alone the wedding gift industry had over $17 billion dollars in sales. These days you can register at department stores, discount stores, specialty stores and online.
Even hardware stores now have bridal registries. There are also travel agents and online sites where you can register for your honeymoon. Guests can put money toward the cost of your honeymoon.
So what should you know before picking a registry? One of the first questions you need to ask is “are these items in stock?” Nothing is worse than registering for china, just to find out that the store does not keep the item in stock, it will have to be back ordered and you’ll have to wait months to receive your gift. Remember guests want to have an actual present to give you at your showers, not just an IOU from the store.
Your next question should be “is this a seasonal item”? Remember, if you register for a seasonal item, it may not be available closer to your wedding date. You will constantly have to update your registry and trying to return items that have been marked down can be a nightmare.
Speaking of updating your registry, remember to keep a check on them. Even though the stores should update purchased items automatically this doesn’t always happen. If you’re not careful you can end up with 4 toasters and 3 waffle irons.
Also, ask how long your registry will stay on the store’s computer. Many guests give presents after the wedding is over, or use the registry for Christmas, anniversary or birthday gifts.
Find out if the store has a discount completion program which lets you purchase items not received as gifts at a discount after your wedding.
When choosing where to register, pick several different stores with different price ranges. This will really help your guests find something in their price range and geographic area. To make things easier for you, remember to check each stores’ return policies. Some have very good ones and some are just awful. Ask questions like, “Do I have to make an appointment to do returns?” Do I get cash back or store credit?”
Remember to compare prices when you register as prices on the same items can vary widely from store to store. Deciding what items to place on your registry can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be. The salespeople in the bridal departments of major stores are well versed in helping you choose patterns, the number of items needed, and price range guidelines.
When you go in to register there will be a few things you will need to know; wedding date, address gifts should be delivered to, and an idea of what you want to register for. Know what basic appliances you will need. Have ideas on whether you want formal china and silverware or a more casual style. This will depend on your lifestyle. Discuss colors with your fiancée. Remember to call ahead and make an appointment with the bridal consultant so planning your registry is not rushed. Even though your fiancée may not look forward to accompanying you, I haven’t met one yet that did not enjoy using the hand held scanner to scan items for your registry.
Now for the most important information….do not put your registry information in your invitation. It is very bad etiquette because this implies a gift is expected. Let your attendants, family, and close friends spread the word to your guests.
Even hardware stores now have bridal registries. There are also travel agents and online sites where you can register for your honeymoon. Guests can put money toward the cost of your honeymoon.
So what should you know before picking a registry? One of the first questions you need to ask is “are these items in stock?” Nothing is worse than registering for china, just to find out that the store does not keep the item in stock, it will have to be back ordered and you’ll have to wait months to receive your gift. Remember guests want to have an actual present to give you at your showers, not just an IOU from the store.
Your next question should be “is this a seasonal item”? Remember, if you register for a seasonal item, it may not be available closer to your wedding date. You will constantly have to update your registry and trying to return items that have been marked down can be a nightmare.
Speaking of updating your registry, remember to keep a check on them. Even though the stores should update purchased items automatically this doesn’t always happen. If you’re not careful you can end up with 4 toasters and 3 waffle irons.
Also, ask how long your registry will stay on the store’s computer. Many guests give presents after the wedding is over, or use the registry for Christmas, anniversary or birthday gifts.
Find out if the store has a discount completion program which lets you purchase items not received as gifts at a discount after your wedding.
When choosing where to register, pick several different stores with different price ranges. This will really help your guests find something in their price range and geographic area. To make things easier for you, remember to check each stores’ return policies. Some have very good ones and some are just awful. Ask questions like, “Do I have to make an appointment to do returns?” Do I get cash back or store credit?”
Remember to compare prices when you register as prices on the same items can vary widely from store to store. Deciding what items to place on your registry can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be. The salespeople in the bridal departments of major stores are well versed in helping you choose patterns, the number of items needed, and price range guidelines.
When you go in to register there will be a few things you will need to know; wedding date, address gifts should be delivered to, and an idea of what you want to register for. Know what basic appliances you will need. Have ideas on whether you want formal china and silverware or a more casual style. This will depend on your lifestyle. Discuss colors with your fiancée. Remember to call ahead and make an appointment with the bridal consultant so planning your registry is not rushed. Even though your fiancée may not look forward to accompanying you, I haven’t met one yet that did not enjoy using the hand held scanner to scan items for your registry.
Now for the most important information….do not put your registry information in your invitation. It is very bad etiquette because this implies a gift is expected. Let your attendants, family, and close friends spread the word to your guests.
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