Congratulations on your engagement! This is a really exciting time in your life. It’s also probably going to be a bit stressful.
During this next year, I want to walk through this process with you. I’ll give you a 12 Month Guide to planning your wedding and explain things along the way. You can start from the beginning here (click). Come back to this blog each week for the next installment.
Week 16 – Gift Registries
Hope you were able to block off some hotel rooms for your guests. This week we’re looking at setting up gift registries!
This can either be overwhelming or way too easy to register for everything you see. Here are a few pointers to get you going in the right direction.
1. Take a look at what you have and what you’ll need.
Getting married is a great time to upgrade from old college linens and second-hand kitchen supplies. Look at what you have that needs to be replaced. Maybe you have been needing something that is perfect for a wedding gift.
2. Don’t list items just because you were told to.
There are a ton of lists available that tell you “what you should register for.” Use these as guides but don’t think you need to register for everything listed. If you don’t need the item, then don’t include it. If your grandmother has said she’s giving you some fine china, you probably don’t need to register for any.
3. Select the stores that have what you need and are convenient for guests.
You only need to register at a few stores, no more than four. Make sure the stores cover what you need. Some popular options are Target, Bed Bath & Beyond and Amazon. There are a lot of other options, including honeymoon funds where guests can pay for special options during your honeymoon. Be sure to choose things that will be convenient for your guests. Pick at least one place that can be found in most cities and online.
4. Register for items in multiple price ranges.
Your guests will have different gift budgets. Select several items in each range with more items in the $25-100 range than above and below. You can even register for the same type of item at different price points (we registered for a really nice pot and pan set along with a less expensive set). Another thing to note is that your registry list and guest list should have similar numbers.
You’ll probably get items that aren’t on your list and gift cards. Remember that gifts are a way to show affection. If you get something that wasn’t on your registry, say thank you and smile. Any gift cards can be used after the wedding to purchase the extra items on your registry.
This week, decide what you need and what stores have those items. Don’t forget to select items in different price ranges. Remember: list the registry information on your wedding website, but not on wedding invitations.
What’s the number one place where you’re registering?
Next week we’ll talk about honeymoon plans!
Katelyn is a certified wedding planner. She is available for consultations.
She will even meet with you on Skype to help you work through part of your wedding planning.
Click here for more information.