10 Tips to the Perfect Registry

Selecting items for your wedding registry is more than just picking out a few things for your kitchen and bath. It’s about setting up your home. It’s important that you look at your style and lifestyle, how you live and how you want to live for years to come.

Choosing items should be a couple’s event. Often you’re combining households so look at what both of you have and choose accordingly. Block out at least an hour to pick items for your registry.

“It’s wonderful when couples come in and choose items for their wedding registry together,” says Eileen Turnquist, one of the wedding registry specialists at The Elements in Storm Lake. “They get a great mix of items that reflects the personalities of both the bride and groom.”

Guests want to give a gift they know you will enjoy and use so give them plenty of choices. Options at varying prices allow guests to choose a gift for you that also fits their budget.

“Don’t be afraid to include a high-ticket option, like a great piece of art or set of Swiss Diamond pans,” says Beckly Hasselhoff. “We see a lot of families going together and purchasing a larger, pricier item for the couple.”

Start with the basics. If you don’t do a lot a formal entertaining you may not want to register for fine china and crystal. Instead, think about a great set of versatile, multipurpose dishes. They are perfect for entertaining and can be dressed up for special occasions.

A wedding registry is a great opportunity to upgrade, too. It’s probably time to pitch the $10 toaster from college. High quality kitchen appliances from KitchenAid or Breville will be a must-have for years to come.

Matching towels can really clean up the look of your bathroom and give it a spa feel. Choose some great Turkish or Egyptian cotton bath sheets with matching bath towels, hand towels and washcloths. This is the perfect time to send old mismatched pieces to the rag bin.

“Everyone likes decorative accessories for their home,” says Kathy Sorbe, owner and lead designer at The Elements. “I always encourage couples to choose items that they can visualize in their home and will be a keepsake, reminding them of their special day for years to come.

Make sure that your wedding registry is accessible and viewable online. Your guests have the opportunity to “shop” even if they don’t live nearby.

Complete your registration early. As soon as family and friends hear you’re engaged, they will start to ask where they can buy wedding and shower gifts. If you have a wedding website, be sure to list where you’re registered and link your online registry to your site.

“We encourage our couples to check back and see what items have been purchased from their registry,” says Kathy Sorbe, lead designer and owner of The Elements. “And they always find something else they love!”

By putting some thought into the items you choose, you’ll ensure that the gifts you receive will be ones you will cherish and enjoy for years.

10 Tips

1. Be sure to register early and let guests know where they can shop.

2. An online wedding registry gives all your guests an opportunity to select a gift you love. And if you have traveling guests, see if the store will deliver gifts to the reception for out-of-towners.

3. It’s best to complete your registry with the bride and groom together. Many opinions can make choosing items difficult.

4. Choose basics that you can use every day and for special occasions.

5. Pick gifts for all budgets.

6. Don’t be afraid to select some pricier options. Many times, guests will pool their resources to get a more expensive gift.

7. Think about the future. You won’t be living in a small apartment forever. Think about what you will use long-term.

8. Gift cards are a perfectly acceptable option. Feel free to ask for them!

9. Check back and see what your guests are buying and add more items if needed.

10. Send a “Thank You” to guests who attended or sent you a gift. There’s nothing more lovely than a handwritten note!