Wedding Invite Etiquette: Including Registry Information

Wedding registry information is a contentious topic for couples planning their big day. While some consider it a major etiquette blunder to include registry details on a wedding invitation, others argue that it is helpful for guests to have this information. The general consensus is that wedding invitations should not include registry information as it may give the impression that gift-giving is a priority for the couple. Instead, there are alternative ways to inform guests about registries, such as including the information on bridal shower invitations, creating a wedding website, or relying on word-of-mouth through family and friends.

Wedding registry information on invites: It is considered a major faux pas and a request for gifts

Wedding invitation cards are usually a confusing affair for couples, especially when it comes to what to include on them. One of the most frequently asked questions about wedding invites is whether or not to include registry information.

It is considered a major faux pas to include registry information on your wedding invites. It is also regarded as a request for gifts, so it is best not to put any wedding registry information on the invitation card itself. Friends and family may interpret this to mean that receiving gifts is just as important to you, or even more so, than sharing your special day with your loved ones.

However, this does not mean that you should not inform your guests about your registry at all. There are other ways to do so without including it on the invitation card. One way is to include an informational insert in the envelope with a link to your wedding website. Your wedding website is a one-stop shop for guests to access all your wedding information, so they will expect to find your wedding registry there. This approach is much more subtle when it comes to asking for gifts from guests. It is also common to include RSVP cards, reception cards, and wedding programs in the same envelope as your wedding invitation, so adding an extra card with your wedding website link won't be an issue.

Another way to share your registry details is through word of mouth. You can inform your close family members and friends about your registry, and they can spread the word to anyone who asks about it. This was the traditional way of communicating registry information before the advent of wedding websites.

Additionally, it is acceptable to include your registry information on bridal shower invitations. The host of the bridal shower can include a link or note about your registry on the invitation. Since bridal showers are primarily about gift-giving, guests will want and need to know what gifts to bring.

Wedding website: Include a link to your wedding website on an enclosure card

Wedding invitation etiquette can be a minefield, especially when it comes to sharing your registry information. The general consensus is that you should never put your registry details directly on your wedding invitations. This is considered a major faux pas and may give the impression that receiving gifts is more important to you than sharing your special day with loved ones.

So, if not on the invitation itself, where can you share your registry information? The best way is to include a link to your wedding website on an enclosure card. An enclosure card is a small card included with your wedding invitations that features additional information. This could include details such as the time and location of the reception, food and drink options, attire suggestions, and entertainment.

By including your wedding website URL on the enclosure card, you can direct guests to your registry without explicitly mentioning gifts. This approach is much more subtle and allows guests to access all your wedding information in one place. It is common to include other stationery, such as RSVP and reception cards, in the same envelope as your invitations, so an additional enclosure card will not be out of place.

If you are using a wedding website for RSVPs, you can simply include the website address on the enclosure card without the need for a separate card. This way, you can provide all the necessary information in one place, keeping your stationery suite streamlined and elegant.

Bridal shower invites: It is acceptable to include registry information

When it comes to wedding invites, it is generally advised not to include registry information. This is because it may be interpreted as a sign that getting gifts is more important to the couple than sharing their special day with loved ones. However, this rule does not apply to bridal shower invites.

Bridal showers are all about gift-giving, so it is perfectly acceptable to include registry information on the invitations. This can be done in one of two ways. One option is to direct guests to the couple's wedding website, where registry details can be found. The other option is to simply list the stores the couple is registered at. For example, " [Name] is registered at Bed Bath & Beyond, World Market, and Crate & Barrel."

If you are worried about including registry information on the bridal shower invites, there are a few other options. You could include an insert with the invitations that provides the registry details. Alternatively, you could rely on word of mouth and have close family members and friends spread the word to anyone who asks.

It is important to note that the rules around registry information vary depending on the type of event. While it is acceptable to include registry information on bridal shower invites, it is generally considered a faux pas to do so on wedding invites.

Word of mouth: Share registry details with family and attendants, who can spread the word

While it is considered a major faux pas to include your registry information on your wedding invitations, there are other ways to spread the word. One way is through word of mouth. Back before wedding websites were a thing, guests learned about registries by asking the bride or groom's family, VIPs, and attendants. This tradition should be continued! Share the details with your immediate family, bridesmaids, and groomsmen, and let them know they can spread the word on your behalf.

If you're having a smaller or intimate wedding, word of mouth is a great way to announce your registry. When friends or family members ask about what you need for the big day, let them know where they can find your registry information. You can also post details on social media or ask close friends and family members to help spread the word. This is definitely an old-school approach, but it can be effective, especially if you have a lot of guests who are not familiar with wedding websites or online registries.

It's important to remember that your registry is just one part of your wedding planning process. You don't need to agonize over every word—just focus on conveying your wishes clearly and concisely. Let your family and attendants know that they can share the registry details with anyone who asks, and trust that your guests will reach out if they need more information.

By using word of mouth to spread the news about your registry, you can avoid any potential greedy vibes while still ensuring that your guests have the information they need to purchase gifts for your big day.

Insert card: Include registry information on an insert card in the invitation

While it is considered a major etiquette breach to include your registry information on your wedding invitations, there is a way to include this information discreetly. You can include an insert card in the invitation, with a link to your wedding website, where guests can find your registry details. This way, you are not putting your registry information on the invitation itself, but still making it easily accessible to your guests.

The insert card can include other important details, such as the time and location of the reception, driving directions, attire suggestions, and any rules about children. It is also a good idea to mention that the website will be updated regularly with the latest information. This way, you are providing guests with all the information they need, without putting the focus on gifts.

The wedding website itself should also be carefully worded. It is best to avoid any mention of gifts, even if you are requesting no presents. Instead, include a sweet message that makes it clear gifts are not expected. For example, "Your support and love are the best gift we could wish for! We are registered at [store name] and [store name]."

This approach ensures that your guests have all the information they need, without taking the focus away from the celebration of your special day.

Frequently asked questions