Do Couples Still Register?

WEDDING NOTES

The answer is a resounding yes! What has changed somewhat is the variety of stores and

shops that now provide a bridal registry service. We have learned that many brides

appreciate a little advice on what to do before they make registration selections. In spite of

the publicity being given to some celebrity brides and their “news making” registry choices,

the act of selecting registry sources and gift ideas are not just “gift grabs” as one of our

brides recently stated. Properly used, gift registries are a true service for your wedding

guests. Guests have the assurance of knowing they are giving a gift that will be cherished,

as well as the comfort of knowing that their gift is less likely to be duplicated.

Our first bit of advice is to reassure the bride that registry is “still being done”.

Next we remind the bride that the items chosen will be a part of their lives for years to come,

so choices should not be made in haste – nor should they be made without the groom’s

input.

We urge couples to make their choices in a timely manner so that friends and relatives have

time to purchase the gifts for pre wedding events as well as the wedding itself.

If you have many friends and family who live in a different area from you and the groom, we

advise our brides to include a gift registry source with a national reach. Most retailers have

on line ordering, shipping and registry recording. Today, most registries are electronic and

the bride’s choices are recorded for her along with guest purchases as they are made.

Please don’t let anyone advise you that it is ok to include registry information in your

invitation. IT IS NOT! Many things may have changed about weddings, but this has not

been one of them. It has always been in poor taste and remains so. Because most brides

create their own wedding web site, you can certainly list registry sites there.

Today’s gift registries may be more sophisticated than the early versions, but the goal of

getting information to your guests and helping them make a wonderful selection for you is

the same.