Wedding Registry: Asking For Furniture, Good Idea?

There are many differing opinions on whether it is appropriate to ask for furniture on a wedding registry. Some sources say that it is acceptable to request furniture, especially if the registry offers a group-gifting option, which allows guests to contribute to bigger gifts. However, others argue that it is a faux pas to register for furniture, especially larger or more expensive items. Ultimately, it is up to the couple to decide what they want to include on their registry, but it is important to consider the budget of their guests and include a range of items at different price points.

Smaller furniture items

Dining and Entertaining Furniture

A stylish bar cart is perfect for couples who love to entertain. The Safavieh Rio 3-Tier Round Bar Cart and Wine Rack, for example, has deep glass shelves that can accommodate cocktails, appetizers, and desserts. It also features a practical handle, caster-locked wheels, and an integrated wine rack to keep your drinks and barware secure while moving from room to room.

Dining chairs are another essential item, especially if you plan to host dinner parties or intimate meals. The Safavieh Izzy Chenille Dining Chair set offers a sophisticated and comfortable option that pairs well with various dining tables.

Living Room Furniture

A bookcase is a great way to display your book collection, framed photos, and decorative items. The Honey-Can-Do 4-Tier Industrial Rolling Bookshelf is a modern farmhouse-style bookcase with four shelves and a heavy-duty steel frame. It's perfect for the living room or bedroom and can even be used to store dinnerware and glassware elegantly.

If you're looking for a unique and intriguing way to create more storage space, consider a wall-mounted shelf like the Umbra Bellwood Wall Shelf. This oval-designed shelf is eye-catching and sturdy, with each shelf capable of holding up to 15 pounds. Mount it over a desk or console table to add functionality and visual appeal to your living room.

For a more traditional option, a side table is always a great choice. The Honey-Can-Do Square Natural C End Table has a rustic tabletop and a black stand that will seamlessly blend with your existing furniture. The C-shaped design allows it to fit above most armrests, making it the perfect spot for curling up with a good book and a cup of tea.

Outdoor Furniture

If you're looking for outdoor furniture, consider the Safavieh Abdul 4-Piece Living Set. This chic set includes two armchairs, a loveseat, and a glass-topped coffee table, providing a comfortable and elegant space for hosting guests.

For a more relaxed option, the Safavieh Newport Chaise Lounge Chair with a Side Table is perfect for soaking up the sun. The multilevel reclining back allows for adjustable angles, whether you're reading or taking an alfresco nap. The built-in side table is also a convenient feature, providing just enough space for your drinks, snacks, and books.

Group gifting

When creating your wedding registry, it's important to keep in mind that not everyone will be able to afford expensive gifts. To make sure all your guests can find something within their budget, include a mix of smaller and larger items. You can make any item on your registry a group gift, allowing guests to contribute what they can without any stress or coordination. This also increases your chances of receiving the gift, as guests are less likely to skip over it if they can't afford the full amount.

If you're worried about breaking etiquette, fear not! While it's generally recommended to avoid putting too many large-ticket items on your registry, a few furniture pieces are acceptable, especially if they are items you will use every day. Just be sure to also include more affordable options, so guests have a variety of choices.

Some examples of furniture that can be included in your registry are a dining table and chairs, a dining server, or a memory foam mattress. You can also register for outdoor furniture, such as a patio set or a fire pit, which guests can then come and enjoy with you.

So, if you're considering adding furniture to your wedding registry, don't be afraid to utilize the group gifting option. It's a great way to get the furniture you need while still accommodating your guests' budgets.

Honeymoon funds

While it is generally acceptable to request furniture on your wedding registry, some couples may prefer to ask for contributions towards their honeymoon instead. Honeymoon funds are a great way to ensure that your guests give you a gift that you will truly appreciate and use. Here are some reasons why honeymoon funds are a good idea:

Flexibility

Convenience

Setting up a honeymoon fund is simple and convenient for both the couple and their guests. Websites like The Knot, Traveler's Joy, Honeyfund, and Hitchd offer easy-to-use platforms where couples can create their honeymoon registry and guests can contribute with just a few clicks. These websites also offer the option to combine honeymoon funds with traditional gift ideas, which is perfect if some guests prefer to give physical presents.

Cost-Effective

Memorable Experiences

Instead of receiving physical items, honeymoon funds allow guests to gift the couple memorable experiences. Whether it's a relaxing couples' massage, a romantic dinner, or an exciting excursion, these experiences will create lasting memories for the newlyweds. These experiences can be tailored to the couple's interests, ensuring they have a honeymoon that is truly special and unique to them.

Stress-Free

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and couples may not have the time or energy to create a traditional gift registry. Honeymoon funds take the stress out of gift-giving by providing a straightforward way for guests to contribute. Additionally, the couple doesn't have to worry about receiving duplicate or unwanted items, and there is no hassle of returning or exchanging gifts.

Gift cards

While opinions vary on whether it's acceptable to ask for furniture on a wedding registry, there's a consensus that gift cards are a great addition.

Types of Gift Cards

There are gift cards for almost anything, from streaming services and makeup to home improvements, pet care, vacations, and flights. You can also opt for gift cards from specific stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, or IKEA for home renovations and upgrades. If you're planning a honeymoon, consider asking for gift cards from airlines, hotel chains, or Airbnb to boost your travel fund.

Gift Card Etiquette

When adding gift cards to your wedding registry, it's essential to consider your guests' perspectives. In the past, traditional wedding etiquette frowned upon asking for cash gifts. However, today's guests understand that physical gifts might not always be the best fit, especially if the couple already lives together.

To address potential concerns, you can add notes to each gift card on your registry, explaining what you plan to use it for. This approach can help persuade hesitant friends or family members by showing how the gift card aligns with your lifestyle and interests.

Combining Options

You don't have to limit yourself to only gift cards on your registry. Universal registry tools like The Knot's allow you to register for both gift cards and traditional wedding gifts, giving guests a range of options to choose from. This combination provides convenience for you and your guests, making it easier to select and purchase gifts that you'll truly appreciate.

Ultimately, the key is to register for gifts that you and your partner genuinely want and will use. Gift cards offer a versatile way to support your newlywed life, whether it's for date nights, home improvements, or that dream honeymoon.

Universal registries

A universal wedding registry is a gift list that allows you to add items from any store in the world, including online and brick-and-mortar stores. This means you can register for products, experiences, or even a cash fund for large purchases. Universal registries offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to sync multiple store registries into one shareable, shoppable list.

• Sync your registries: You can sync your existing store registries, such as Target, Amazon, and Macy's, with a universal registry platform like MyRegistry. This allows you to retain the perks offered by these stores, such as completion discounts and free gifts, while consolidating all your registries into one convenient location.
• Add a variety of gifts: Universal registries allow you to add gifts from any store, giving you endless options. Include a range of items at different price points to accommodate various budgets. You can also add experiences, such as a cooking class or a spa day, or create a cash fund for large purchases or your honeymoon.
• Start early: It's recommended to start your wedding registry early. Friends and family will start thinking about gifts as soon as they hear about your engagement, so adding options at different price points early on will make it easier for them to choose something you'll truly enjoy.
• Make it personal: Your wedding registry is an opportunity to add personality to your choices. Consider geometric shapes, bright colours, or unusual prints. If you're feeling adventurous, go for that pink velvet chair, mustard headboard, or duck egg dresser.
• Group gifting: If you have your eye on more expensive furniture pieces, some universal registry platforms offer group gifting options. This allows groups of friends or family members to contribute towards bigger-ticket items.
• Privacy settings: Universal registry platforms often give you control over the privacy settings of your registry. You can choose whether to make it viewable by guests and/or findable on search engines.

Remember, a universal wedding registry is a great way to consolidate all your gift wishes in one place, offering convenience for both you and your guests.

Frequently asked questions