Your Wedding Registry- 10 Planning Tips For Creating Your Best One

Let's talk wedding registries! Creating your registry can be one of the most fun parts of planning your wedding. Wondering when is an appropriate time to start working on your registry? There's no set timetable and it really is different for everyone, but it's absolutely fine to start creating one as soon as you become engaged. In fact, it's encouraged- the earlier you get a start, the easier it is overall. Once it's completed, have it available right on your wedding website for everyone to view so that they can start planning as well. Not sure where to start or looking for a few extra tips? We're here to help. Keep reading for our ten planning tips for your best wedding registry.



You and your partner are about to embark on a brand new journey together, which is incredibly exciting! This part of your wedding planning doesn't have to feel overwhelming or boring, especially if you make your registry together. Both of you should have a say in what items you want to add to your list. You and your partner should each find items that you both love and want for your new life together as a married couple. It's also important to be somewhat flexible on this- if there's something either of you or your parter want that the other isn't completely sold on, try and find a compromise- remember both of you are in this, not just one of you. Make it fun by spending an afternoon together completing your list, and then treat yourselves to your favorite restaurant after. You both get to collaborate on a list, and you get a treat after. A win win situation if you ask us.






If you're starting to plan, and you're feeling a little unsure about what you want on your registry, ask for some input. Talk to friends who have recently been married and see what items they had on theirs. They've been there and can give you some input into what you might want to add. Use their ideas more like suggestions-remember that the items that you choose to add on there are for your home and not theirs. They can also give some insight into items that you might not actually need. You can also take a look at other friends and family members wedding registries online to help you see what they're shopping for, and google is always right at your fingertips to search for what's trending. You'll be able to start making that list in no time.



It should be noted that directly asking for wedding guests can be seen as impolite. If you were to write "gifts please!" on your invitations, you would almost certainly appear a tad greedy. Bringing a gift for newlyweds is an unspoken agreement, after all it's a common practice, but coming out and directly asking for gifts is in poor taste. Having your wedding registry information available on your wedding website is the best option, and guests can find it easily. You can also have your maid of honor or best man (or even your parents) be in charge of this task when they're planning other events like your bridal shower or bachelor/bachelorette parties, having them send links or including it on those invitations instead as a small footnote. No matter which option, for good etiquette, never put this info on your formal wedding invitations or save the dates.








Whether you're moving into a new home, or you need a serious upgrade on some of your kitchen tools, think about what you need the most and start with those items. It's helpful to take inventory with you partner and see what items you're missing or could use more of. This way, when you and your partner start really delving into creating your registry, you'll have a good idea of where to begin. Your wedding registry is also a bit of a wishlist- think about some kitchen or household items that you want that you haven't purchased yet. When you check in on your registry and see what's been purchased, it can not only help you update your list, but it can also create some anticipation and excitement of what's coming your way.






Don't be afraid to add a couple of luxury or higher prices items to your registry. There will be guests who won't mind spending a little extra cash, and larger priced items also make for good gifts for a group of people. Don't be afraid to add that nice vacuum you've been eying or a really nice cookware set- it is your wedding wishlist after all. Luxury pieces can also include some fun and unique items that you might not have thought about. Want a little inspiration? Read our list of wedding registry items you didn't know you needed. You don't get many opportunities to ask for household items so don't be afraid to have fun with it.




Keep in mind everyone has a different budget, so it's important to have items available a variety of price points. Start on the small end by offering items beginning at $25, and then grouping them as you go up. For example, price ranges from $25-$50, $50-$100 are easier for people to read, and helps people budget what they are spending and gives them an idea of what is offered. Having a good selection in all price points will show your family and friends that you're aware of other people and their financial situations, and they'll appreciate the time and effort you put into it.






Make it easy on everyone, and yourself, by narrowing down where you're registered. Instead of having items from numerous places, select your favorite stores- think places you would shop regularly. Picking your top two, maximum four places to shop is better for all involved. Guests won't feel as overwhelmed with a larger selection, and you'll appreciate how much easier it is to keep track of everything once the wedding is over. You won't have to search through a large option of places when you're both updating your lists, and making thank you cards. Remember, less is more with your wedding registry, so don't overthink it and you'll see that a smaller group of stores to choose from will be better for everyone.



Those who attend your wedding will most likely contribute a gift for you and your partner at your wedding, even if it's just something small. But it's important to take note that a wedding gift isn't necessarily a requirement, and that everyone who attends your wedding might not bring a gift. Guests will have different budgets or financial limitations, and they might not always be able to contribute. This is not something to worry about- it's important to be appreciative that your love ones are able to be at your wedding, especially if you are having a destination wedding where expenses tend to add up. This is also true for members of your bridal party- spending money on attire, bachelorette/bachelor parties, and possible travel is already asking a lot, so don't be offended if they don't also give gifts. Having your loved ones in attendance at your wedding is a gift in itself, with physical gifts being a nice addition.






It's important to regularly update your registry to not only keep track of what's already been purchased, but to see which items aren't moving off the list. If certain pieces aren't moving, consider that their price points might be too high for what is being offered, and see if you can find a similar version at a discount. By regularly updating your wishlist, you get the freedom to change your mind- maybe items you wanted a few months ago no longer seem necessary or you found something you both needed more. Don't be afraid to change your wants and needs accordingly. Your registry should be open and flexible and never completely set in stone. It also removes items other people have already bought, so new viewers don't accidentally buy you the same things. Who needs multiple set of salad plates, right?



No matter what piece of advice you take from this list, this one is a universal non-negotiable and is something you can't skip. Every single person who presented you and your partner with a gift, whether it was something tangible, or cash you used for your honeymoon, should receive a handwritten thank you note from both of you. This is an instance where an email or a text message just doesn't cut it, and anything less than an actual thank you card falls short. This is why it's important to keep track of what was received, so you can personally thank each person for their contribution. It shows that you and your partner are appreciative of their gift and thankful for what you received. By not doing this, it can come off as unappreciative and rude. Your family and friends spent both time and money to be a part of your wedding, and this small gesture goes a long way. There is no reason for you to skip this step, so make sure you take the time to do it.




BONUS TIP:

Don't be afraid to ask for cash or for any form of money to be used for your honeymoon. It might seem like a wedding faux pas, but in recent years, that's completely changed. In fact, it's become a very popular form of gift giving. Your loved ones and wedding guests want to give you gifts that they know you'll use. Most people would rather give you cash to use towards your honeymoon or for helping you save for a down payment on a home instead of kitchen or household items you might not need. Being honest with yourself about what you really need will help everyone involved feel happier. Include it as an option on your registry and tell your guests what their donation will go towards. Keep track of who gave you cash, and in what amounts and don't forget to thank them. Those who send cash or money absolutely must receive a thank you card in the mail, thanking them for their contribution just as you would do with anyone else.



What is your take on wedding registry planning? Do you agree with our list or was there something we missed? Let us know- send us a message via our Instagram or Etsy to tell us your thoughts. Recently Engaged and planning your special day? Congratulations! Let us help take the stress out of event planning- For more wedding inspiration, subscribe to the email list, follow us on Pinterest and scroll down below to save 10% on templates. That way, you can focus on what really matters.