Congrats on your engagement! Now it’s time to go scanner crazy at the store setting up your registry, right? Well, not quite. While in the days of yore, couples would register for fine china, numerous towels, and various other fancy things they’ll probably never use, in the modern age it’s all about cash funds, experiences, and fewer household items since more couples are living together before they get married.
Registry trends aren’t the only thing that is changing– registries themselves are changing too. In the past, couples simply chose their favorite department store and created their registry in-store. Today, there are more online registry services like Zola that allow you to register for items from your favorite stores, register for experiences, create a honeymoon fund, and more.
So what’s the best way to go about creating your registry? Here are some of our tips for a seamless set up.
It Takes Two
Creating a registry requires a lot of communication between the soon-to-be newlyweds, so really take time to figure out what exactly to register for. Regardless of if you’ve lived together for years or you’re moving in together for the first time, it’s important to know what you need, what you’re upgrading, as well as what things you want. Have a conversation about how you envision your home to look, and really hone in on your style as a couple.
Find Your Style
Speaking of your couple style, there’s more that goes into it than decor tastes and color schemes. What interests or hobbies do you share? What do you two enjoy doing together?
Are you the couple who enjoys cooking a good meal and baking a delicious dessert from scratch? Free Blue Apron subscription and a cast iron skillet - count me in!
Perhaps you’re more of an adventurous couple who are always looking for the next trip or thing to knock off the bucket list? Register for hiking gear, cookware made for camping, or Airbnb gift cards!
Or maybe you and your S.O. love the arts and enjoy taking trips to your local museum or theater. Register for fun artwork to display in your home, or even create cash funds for seeing a Broadway show or for a museum membership! There are tons of gifts and experiences you can register for that will allow you to continue to do the things you love.
Make It Fun
Wedding registries don’t just have to be about items for the house or things that you feel you need versus simply want! Look through different brands and stores for items that you’ve always wanted, but didn’t necessarily want to buy yourself. Or register for items you can use while on a vacation or your honeymoon. For instance, it’s a great idea to register for travel-specific items like a new luggage set, gear, accessories, and apparel.
Consider Your Guests
While it’s exciting to create your dream list of must-haves, it’s important to have realistic expectations as well. With numerous guests, it’s guaranteed that they’ll have varying budgets so it’s key to have a registry that reflects that. Be sure to register for gifts in different price ranges so that your guests feel comfortable and don’t have to worry about not spending enough to get you something you’d love.
Mo’ Money, No Problems
The topic of cash gifts can be a touchy subject, but adding cash funds to your registry is definitely encouraged. The key is to not ask for money outright (although guests may still send a check without you asking) and to instead label your funds with something like “Help us with the down payment on our first home,” or “Your contributions will help us with our dream honeymoon.” You can even create cash funds for starting a family! Now who could say no to that?
What other recommendations do you have for setting up your wedding registry? Let us know!
