Sponsored by:
Registering is Serious Business.
Start by scouting the stores to see what is available, what’s new and what the current trends are. Then make a list of what you already have and a separate list of what you need, items that should be upgraded and a wish list of things you can do without but would like to have.
Only then are you ready to visit a store or two and open a registry.
What’s the etiquette about gift-giving?
Are guests obliged to use the registry? Absolutely not. The person giving a gift makes the choice. Some people like to select something unusual that will be a surprise, some may opt to write a cheque, some may like to give you something they have cherished from their own home. It’s always their choice.
How soon should we register?
Register immediately after you are engaged (unless the engagement period is more than a year). The registry or registries should be in place well before the first bridal shower.
What if we can’t make all our decisions that quickly?
Not a problem. You can add to the registries at any time.
What price range should be covered?
Always include very inexpensive items that would be appropriate for a shower gift and ideal from, say, a little flower girl.
What should the top price limit be?
You can include costly items because some family members or the bridal party may decide to pool their funds to buy you an impressive gift.
Is there a return policy in case a number of people give us the same item?
Duplication is avoided because your registry goes on a computer that is linked to all the store’s branches. When an item is purchased, it is removed from the list.
Is the registry closed immediately after the wedding?
No. In fact, it can remain open indefinitely if you want to use it as a guide for birthday and anniversary gifts.
What if a gift arrives broken?
Don’t embarrass the giver. Get in touch with the store and have it replaced.
Do the stores gift-wrap and deliver?
Most major stores will give you options. Some offer gift-wrapping and delivery but the most sensible way is to have a gift card mailed to you. They then keep the gifts for you so you can pick them all up at one time a few days or weeks after the wedding.
My fiancé wants pricey crystal just because we get it without paying for it, but I say it doesn’t suit our lifestyle. Does Today’s BRIDE have an opinion?
We do. What if you receive two crystal red wine glasses and, say, four water glasses? Are you prepared to spend the dollars to complete your crystal needs?
What constitutes a place setting?
The basic place setting is five pieces: dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread and butter plate, cup and saucer.
Some patterns offer a mug and all offer a rimmed soup/cereal/pasta bowl.
Could the soup bowl be part of my five-place setting? Which piece would I delete?
You can remove the salad/dessert plate and add an interesting accent plate that would enliven your table.
China, crystal, glassware and flatware are obvious things for which to register. What else should we be considering?
Register for everything you need both inside and outside the house. Outfit your kitchen completely. Then think of bathrooms, bedroom linens, dining room needs, lamps, tables, chairs, garden tools, handyman tools, hobbies, sports equipment. The idea is to give you a head start as you plan your activities together as well as your first home.
Can we register for contributions to our honeymoon?
Yes. Very often department stores have a travel department and it can be part of your registry. Guests may make a dollar contribution or pay for something specific that pertains to your honeymoon.
What if we get just a few pieces of something that is part of a set and change our minds about completing that particular set. Will the store take it back?
Almost certainly the store will give you a credit so you can apply the amount to something else in the store that will better suit your needs.
