Creating A Wedding Registry: Home Store Options

Creating a wedding registry is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. Couples can set up a wedding registry in-person at a store or from the comfort of their own home. Many stores, including Target, Amazon, Crate & Barrel, and The Home Depot, offer wedding registry services. Additionally, there are universal wedding registry websites, such as MyRegistry.com, that allow couples to add gifts from any store in the world, including niche gifts from boutiques. These registries can also include cash funds for experiences such as honeymoons or home renovations.

Online vs in-store

Creating a wedding registry is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. Couples can choose to set up their registry online or in-store, or both. Here are some of the advantages of each option:

Online

The convenience of setting up a wedding registry online is undeniable. Couples can easily browse through various retailers and add items to their registry from the comfort of their homes. Websites like MyRegistry.com allow couples to sync their registries from popular stores like Target, Amazon, and Macy's, and even include a cash fund option for experiences or bigger purchases. This is a great choice for couples who are short on time or who have guests located all over the world, as it gives them a one-stop shop for all their gifting needs. Additionally, online registries often offer perks such as free shipping, easy returns, and completion discounts. For example, Amazon offers a 20% completion discount and free two-day shipping on eligible items, while Crate & Barrel provides a 15% discount for up to six months after the wedding.

In-Store

For couples who prefer a more tactile experience, creating a wedding registry in-store can be a fun outing. Retailers like Crate & Barrel and Williams-Sonoma offer exclusive in-store experiences, such as private events and professional guidance from experts. This option allows couples to see, touch, and feel the items they are registering for, ensuring they are happy with their selections. In-store registries can also be a great way to access exclusive deals and gifts that may not be available online. For example, couples who register at Williams-Sonoma gain access to complimentary cooking demos, while Crate & Barrel offers $50 when you share your registry with guests. In-store registries can also be a good option for couples who may not have easy access to the internet or prefer a more personalized experience.

Ultimately, the decision to create an online or in-store wedding registry comes down to personal preference. Both options offer unique advantages, and many couples choose to utilize a combination of both to ensure they get everything they need for their special day.

Discounts and deals

Many home stores offer discounts and deals for wedding registries. Here are some of the best deals:

Amazon

• 20% completion discount on registry items shipped and sold by Amazon.com.
• Free two-day shipping on eligible registry items.
• Return any gift received from your registry within 180 days.
• Group gifting option for pricier items.
• Bonus gifts when featured brands' requirements are met.

Anthropologie

• 15% off completion discount for any remaining items you didn’t receive.
• The discount is valid for 90 days and can be used only once.

Bed Bath & Beyond

• 20% registry completion discount.
• 365 days to return or exchange registry items.
• Guests can split the cost for registry merchandise over $100.

Bloomingdale’s

• 20% registry completion discount available for six months after your wedding day.
• 20% discount on dresses, intimates, suits, and accessories for the wedding and beyond.
• Bonus gifts from select brands.
• Free honeymoon planning with The Travel Siblings.

Crate & Barrel

• 15% exclusive completion discount.
• Discounts can be used towards multiple full-priced items for six months after your wedding day.
• Private in-store registry events and one-on-one help with a registry pro.
• Group gifting option available for select items.
• Free standard shipping on eligible items of $49 and above.

Macy’s

• 20% discount on any gifts remaining on your registry, as well as any new items you choose to add (receive 10% on furniture, mattresses, and rugs/floor coverings).
• Valid for up to 180 days after your event.
• 5% back in rewards in the form of a gift card at the end of your registry timeline.
• Valuable coupon book at the time of sign-up.

Pottery Barn

• 10% Newlywed Discount valid for six months after your wedding date.
• Use the registry completion discount as often as you want for that entire six months.
• Free shipping on eligible merchandise.
• Free one-on-one registry assistance from Pottery Barn experts.

Target

• 15% off registry completion discount that arrives the week of your wedding and expires six months after.
• The discount is available to use twice: once for in-store purchases and once for an online order, including items remaining on your registry and anything else you want to buy.
• Up to one year to return most new, unopened items.
• Free two-day shipping.

West Elm

• Free shipping on eligible merchandise.
• Add your West Elm registry to your The Knot website.

Williams Sonoma

• 10% off coupon valid for six months after your wedding date.
• Use the registry completion discount as many times as you wish within six months.
• Free private VIP in-store or virtual consultation with a registry expert.
• Free gifts from brand partners.
• Link your Williams Sonoma registry to your The Knot website.

Gift options

There are many options for couples to choose from when it comes to wedding registry gifts. Here are some popular choices:

• Homeware and Furniture: This is a very common option for couples, especially those moving into a new home together. Stores like Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Restoration Hardware offer a range of furniture and homeware options, from dining and kitchen goods to bedding and décor.
• Appliances and Electronics: Couples can register for appliances such as coffee makers, grills, and smart home devices. Amazon and Target offer a wide selection of these items.
• Kitchenware and Cookware: For couples who enjoy cooking, registering for kitchenware and cookware can be a great option. Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel offer a range of cookware, bakeware, and bar tools.
• Cash Funds: Many couples are now opting for cash gift funds instead of traditional gifts. This allows them to save for bigger purchases or experiences, such as a honeymoon. Sites like MyRegistry and Honeyfund offer this option, often with no fees involved.
• Experiences: Couples may also choose to register for experiences rather than physical gifts. This could include cooking classes, skydiving lessons, or contributions towards their honeymoon. MyRegistry and Zola are examples of sites that offer this option.
• Charitable Donations: Instead of gifts, couples may choose to have guests donate to a charity or nonprofit organisation that they support. MyRegistry allows couples to include this option on their registry.

When creating a wedding registry, it is important to include a variety of items at different price points to accommodate guests' budgets. Couples should also consider starting their registry early, as this gives guests plenty of time to purchase gifts.

Registry management

Creating a wedding registry is an enjoyable part of the wedding planning process. It is an opportunity to reflect your personality as a couple and to create memories.

There are many options for creating a wedding registry, from in-store to online, and it is possible to create a universal registry that syncs multiple registries together.

Where to Start

A good place to start is by considering what you and your partner need. Are you buying your first house together and in need of home improvement supplies, furniture, and appliances? Or are you already cohabiting and looking to upgrade your home with some luxury items?

Timing

It is recommended that you start your wedding registry four to six months before your wedding. This gives your guests plenty of time to purchase gifts and ensures the registry is set up in advance of any pre-wedding celebrations.

What to Include

The short answer is anything you want! The most popular wedding registry items include dinnerware, cookware, and linens. However, some couples also include non-traditional items such as furniture, holiday decor, baby products, and gift cards. It is also possible to include experiences, such as cooking classes or honeymoon activities, and even cash funds.

How Many Items to Include

A good rule of thumb is to include twice as many gifts on your registry as there are invitees to your wedding. This allows guests to select something they feel excited about giving you.

Perks

Many registries offer perks such as completion discounts, free gifts, and other benefits. For example, Crate & Barrel offers a 15% discount for up to six months after your wedding, and Target offers a 15% discount on registry completion. Amazon offers a 20% completion discount, fast and free shipping, and easy returns within 180 days.

Managing Your Registry

Many registries offer apps that make it easy to manage your list, add items, and receive real-time alerts when items are purchased. You can also use apps to scan barcodes in-store to add items to your registry.

Sharing Your Registry

You can share your gift list with family and friends in several ways, including a customised URL, social media, eCards, printable announcements, or embedding it on your personal website.

Timing

Start Early: It is recommended to start your wedding registry early, at least four to six months before your wedding day. This gives your friends and family ample time to choose a gift and allows you to include the registry information on your wedding website and invitations. Starting early also ensures that your registry is ready for any pre-wedding celebrations, such as bridal showers, where guests may bring gifts.

Add Gifts Promptly: As you think of items you would like to add to your registry, it's best to add them as soon as possible. This helps ensure you don't forget any desired items and gives your guests more options to choose from. It is suggested that you include twice as many gifts on your registry as there are invitees to your wedding.

Sync Store Registries: If you plan to register at multiple stores, consider using a universal registry service like MyRegistry.com, which allows you to sync and manage all your store registries in one place. This way, you can take advantage of benefits such as completion discounts and free gifts offered by individual retailers while still having a centralised registry.

Update Regularly: It is a good idea to update your registry regularly, especially as you get closer to your wedding day. This could mean adding new items, removing items that are no longer needed or desired, or marking items that have already been purchased. Regular updates ensure that your guests have a good selection of gifts to choose from.

Return Policies: Keep in mind the return policies of the stores where you register. Some stores offer extended return periods for registry items, allowing you to exchange or return gifts after your wedding. This flexibility can be valuable, especially if you receive duplicate items or change your mind about certain choices.

By following these timing considerations, you can effectively manage your wedding registry and ensure a positive experience for both you and your guests.

Frequently asked questions