Wedding Registry Evolution: Adapting To Changing Times

Wedding registries have evolved over the years, with couples now adding non-traditional elements such as charitable donations, honeymoon funds, and even new house payments. While it is generally recommended to set up a registry within two weeks of getting engaged, it is also important to update it regularly, especially if your wedding plans change. Couples can register for a wide range of items, from household essentials to experiences like trips and concerts, and it is crucial to consider different price points to accommodate varying budgets. Wedding registry etiquette includes avoiding personal items, keeping the registry updated, and expressing gratitude through thank-you notes.

Updating the date

Wedding registries should be set up within seven to nine months before the wedding date. This is because bridal showers and other pre-wedding festivities usually take place within this time frame. Couples can start adding gifts to their registry once it has been set up.

To update the date on your wedding registry, log in to your My Gifts page and click the pencil icon located to the right of the current date displayed.

It is important to keep your wedding registry updated from the time of your engagement until you walk down the aisle. Couples should revisit their registry often and update it with new gift selections as items are purchased. This will give all guests a range of options, no matter when they start shopping.

Couples should also remember to send thank-you notes for wedding presents. For gifts received before the wedding, send thank-you cards within two weeks of their arrival. For gifts received on or after the wedding day, send a thank-you note within three months.

Adding and removing items

Adding Items

To add items to your registry, simply browse the registry store and click the "+" button on the product images you're interested in. If you want to learn more about a particular item before adding it, click on the product to read its description and browse reviews. When you're ready, select "Add to Registry".

You can also add items from other websites by downloading a browser button. This allows you to add items without creating a whole new wish list with another retailer.

Removing Items

To remove an item, go to your registry page, hover over the gift, and click on the trash can icon that appears. Then confirm that you want to delete it. Note that you cannot remove gifts that have already been purchased.

If you have imported gifts from other registries, you must remove them from the external registry for them to be removed from your current registry.

General Tips

• It's important to register for a range of items in different price brackets to accommodate different budgets.
• You can also register for non-physical gifts such as cash funds, gift cards, and experiences.
• Avoid waiting too long to register. It's a good idea to set up a registry shortly after getting engaged so that friends and family can start gifting you items you need.
• Take inventory of your belongings before registering, and prioritise registering for items you actually need.
• Use a universal registry to keep all your gifts in one place, making it easier for you and your guests to manage.
• Don't forget to update your shipping address and other personal information as needed.

Returning gifts

Budget-Friendly Wedding Return Gifts:

• Indoor plants: Gift your guests a pot of indoor plants that not only look good but also purify the air in their homes.
• Serving plates and trays: Artistically designed serving plates and trays are useful and affordable, allowing you to build a customised hamper within your budget.
• Monogrammed soaps: Handmade soaps with your and your partner's names on the gift wrap add a personalised touch.
• Incense sticks: A bag of fragrant and organic incense sticks is an affordable option that will make your guests' living spaces smell wonderful.
• Customised pillar candles: Pillar candles with personalised art and messages are a great choice and can be purchased for under $500.

Unique Wedding Return Gifts for Friends:

• 'Thank You' hampers: Curate special hampers with your friends' favourite foods, card games, candles, and more to show your appreciation.
• Cocktail handbag: A stunning cocktail handbag is a perfect way to show gratitude to your bridesmaids.
• Eco-friendly hampers: Opt for environmentally friendly products wrapped in recycled boxes for an eco-conscious gift.
• Body care products: A rejuvenating hamper of body care products is an excellent choice for bridesmaids and groomsmen.
• Fine bone china cups: Gift your friends fine bone china cups set with 24-karat gold highlights as a memorable token of your wedding.
• Contemporary art: If your friends are fans of contemporary art, consider gifting them contemporary apple jars or other similar pieces.

Luxury Wedding Return Gifts:

• Ornate napkin and cutlery holders: These elegant tableware accessories will beautify your guests' dining table setups and can be packaged in good-quality boxes.
• Luxury home fragrance sets: Gift your guests exotic aromatic candle jars, diffusers, and room sprays to create a relaxing ambiance in their homes.
• Imported chocolates hamper: A hamper of imported chocolates allows your guests to indulge and reminisce about your wedding day.
• Silver tray: Gifting something in silver is considered luxurious and auspicious in Indian culture. A simple yet elegant option is a silver tray for your guests' coffee tables.
• Swarovski centrepieces: Swarovski crystals are eye-catching and will beautifully complement the centre table at your guests' homes.

Communicating changes to guests

Communicating changes to your wedding registry can be done in a few ways. Firstly, it is considered bad etiquette to include registry details on your wedding invitation. Instead, wedding websites are a great way to communicate any changes to your wedding registry. Most wedding website templates have a registry tab, which is the perfect place for couples to list their registry information. You can also include the registry details in the wedding details section of your website.

Another way to communicate changes is by word of mouth. You can ask your wedding party or family members to spread the word to guests.

If you are making changes to your wedding date, location, times, or other important details, it is best to send out change-the-dates, which are similar to save-the-dates. These should be sent out at least six to eight months before the wedding date. You can also create a private group on social media to keep your guests updated.

Timing of updates

Wedding registries should ideally be set up within two weeks of your engagement so that family and friends can select gifts for events like engagement parties. However, it's also important to remember that you can update your wedding registry throughout your engagement. You can start small and then add to it once you're more settled in the planning process.

If you've postponed your wedding, it's a good idea to update your registry with your new date, even if you've already communicated it to your guests. Be sure to also list the new date on your wedding website. You don't need to worry about the timing of gifts, as there's no "right" time to give a wedding gift as long as it's before or shortly after the big day.

It's recommended to check in on your registry every few weeks, even if your wedding is a while away. Replace items that have sold out, add items if you're running low, and remove gifts you no longer need or want. It's also a good idea to make sure you have a range of pricing options available, from $50 to $200 or more, to accommodate different budgets.

In terms of timing, it's considered polite to give guests at least three to six months before the wedding to purchase a gift. This means that your registry should ideally be finished by then, if not earlier. It's also a good idea to send out thank-you notes for gifts received within two weeks of their arrival or, for gifts received on or after the wedding day, within three months.

Frequently asked questions