Let’s talk about what TO and NOT TO include on your wedding registry. Creating a wedding registry is an exciting and practical task for engaged couples. It’s an opportunity to gather items that will help you build your new life together. However, figuring out what to include and what to leave out can be a bit overwhelming. To help you navigate this process, here are some things to think about when planning your registry.
What to Include:
While many couples are living together and building a life together long before the wedding, there are still some upgrades you can make to your life together that will help!
Kitchen Essentials: Stocking your kitchen with quality cookware, utensils, and appliances is a great starting point. Consider including items like a set of durable pots and pans, an upgraded blender, or a stand mixer if you are someone who does a lot of baking/cooking. Don’t forget about everyday essentials you’ve had your eye on for a while!
Dinnerware and Glassware: Long gone are the days of specialty china, but registering for a set of durable dinnerware, including plates, bowls, and glasses is a great plan! Opt for versatile pieces that can be used for both casual and formal occasions.
Bedding and Linens: Your wedding registry is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your bedding and linens. Include items like sheets, pillows, duvet covers, towels, and bathmats. Consider choosing soft and high-quality fabrics that will provide comfort and durability and can last.
Home Appliances: Register for appliances that will make your daily life more convenient. This could include a fancier coffee maker, a vacuum cleaner, an iron, or a slow cooker. Think about your lifestyle and the tasks that could benefit from automation or efficiency.
Furniture and Home Décor: If you’re moving into a new home or looking to update your current space, include a few pieces of furniture or home décor items in your registry. It could be a comfortable sofa, a stylish dining table, or decorative pieces like artwork or vases. You never know what your friends and family are looking to shop for!
Highly Personal Items: While your wedding registry reflects your lifestyle and preferences, it’s best to avoid overly personal items. Steer clear of including items like clothing, jewelry, or intimate apparel that you simply don’t want family choosing for you. These are better suited for personal shopping rather than as wedding gifts.
Items You Won’t Use: Be mindful of including items that don’t align with your lifestyle or needs. For instance, if you rarely entertain, an extravagant dinnerware set for twelve might not be necessary. Consider your habits and prioritize items that you will genuinely use and appreciate.
Non-Traditional Gifts: While it’s becoming more common to include non-traditional gifts in wedding registries, it’s still important to be mindful of your guest’s preferences. Items like donations to charity or honeymoon funds may be better suited for a separate option, rather than the primary registry.
Expensive Luxuries: While it’s exciting to dream big, it’s important to strike a balance with your registry. Avoid including excessively expensive or extravagant items that may make your guests uncomfortable. Remember, your registry should reflect your needs and be accessible to a range of budgets.
Duplicate Items: Keep track of the items you’ve already registered for to avoid duplicates. It’s helpful to regularly update your registry and communicate any changes to your guests. This ensures that your registry remains up to date and helps guests choose items that are still available. Plus, it’s no fun unwrapping two of the same blenders!
Creating a wedding registry is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. By including practical and thoughtful items that will enhance your new life together, you can help your guests choose gifts that are both meaningful and useful. Remember to strike a balance between your needs, your guests’ preferences, and the overall budget. Happy registry building!
Please reach out to learn more about how I can help you with your wedding planning and coordination!
Lexi