Incorporating Wedding Registries Into Your Invites: A Guide

When it comes to wedding planning, one of the most common questions asked by couples is whether or not it is appropriate to include registry information on their wedding invitations. While some cultures may have different norms, in many places, it is generally considered a breach of etiquette to include registry details on wedding invites. This is because doing so may give guests the impression that receiving gifts is just as important, or even more so, than celebrating with loved ones. So, how should couples go about sharing their registry information?

Include registry info on bridal shower invites

While it is generally considered a faux pas to include registry information on wedding invitations, it is perfectly acceptable to include this information on bridal shower invites. In fact, it is expected that guests will want and need to know what gifts the bride would like to receive at her bridal shower.

There are two ways to include registry details on bridal shower invitations: you can either direct guests to the couple's wedding website, or you can list the names of the stores where the couple is registered. For example, you could write: "For registry information, please visit [insert website here]" or " [Name] is registered at Bed Bath & Beyond, World Market, and Crate & Barrel."

If you are registered at multiple stores, you could include this information on a separate insert or card. This could be a simple list of store names, or you could include a link to the couple's wedding website, bearing in mind that older guests may prefer to know the names of the stores.

It is also worth noting that, while it is not recommended to include registry information on wedding invitations, it is acceptable to include a link to your wedding website, where guests can find registry details.

Don't post about it on Facebook

When it comes to sharing your wedding registry information, it's best to avoid posting about it on Facebook. Here's why this is a big no-no, along with some alternative options for spreading the word:

Don't Post Your Wedding Registry on Facebook

Posting your wedding registry on Facebook is widely considered inappropriate and rude. Here are some reasons why you should avoid doing this:

• It may come across as greedy: Asking for gifts directly can be interpreted as putting more emphasis on receiving presents than on celebrating your special day with loved ones.
• Not everyone on Facebook is invited to the wedding: Sharing your registry with those who are not invited can be seen as gift-grabbing and may give the impression that you are expecting presents from everyone, including those not attending the wedding.
• It's considered poor etiquette: Traditionally, registry information is shared through bridal shower invitations or word of mouth. Posting it on social media can be seen as a breach of proper etiquette and may offend some guests.
• It's unnecessary: These days, anyone who wants to buy you a gift can easily find your registry online with a quick Google search.

Alternative Ways to Share Your Wedding Registry

Now that we've established why you shouldn't post your wedding registry on Facebook, here are some alternative, more appropriate ways to share this information:

• Bridal shower invitations: It's perfectly acceptable for the host of your bridal shower to include a link or note about your registry on the invitations since these events are primarily about gift-giving.
• Wedding website: Creating a wedding website is a modern way to share all wedding-related information, including registry details. Include a registry page with links to online stores, and be sure to mention that gift-giving is entirely optional.
• Word of mouth: Share your registry details with your immediate family, bridal party, and groomsmen, and let them know they can spread the word to interested guests.
• Save the date: While you shouldn't include specific registry information, you can add your wedding website to your save-the-date announcements, allowing guests to find the details themselves.
• Wedding invitation inserts: Include an informational insert in the envelope with your wedding invitations, providing a link to your wedding website where guests can find registry information.

Include a registry page on your wedding website

It is generally considered a "no-no" to include your registry information on your wedding invitations. However, creating a wedding website is a great way to share your registry details with your guests without coming across as demanding or gift-grabby.

Your wedding website can include all the necessary information about your wedding, from the date and location to accommodation options and your gift registry. This way, guests can easily access all the details in one place. It is a much more subtle approach to asking for gifts and allows guests to choose their presents without too much hassle.

When including your registry on your wedding website, be mindful of the language you use. Instead of directly asking for gifts, try something like, "If you wish to honour the bride and groom with a gift, please see our registry page," or "Your presence at our wedding is gift enough, but if you wish to give something, we are registered at [store name]." This way, you can politely express that gift-giving is entirely optional.

To direct guests to your wedding website, you can include the web address on a small card inserted into the invitation envelope or on your save-the-date cards. This way, guests will know where to find all the relevant information about your wedding, including your registry details.

Remember, it's essential to follow proper etiquette when sharing your registry information. While it may be tempting to include it directly on your invitations, opting for a wedding website or relying on word-of-mouth through family and friends is a more tasteful approach.

Put your wedding website on your save-the-date

Save-the-date cards are a great way to let your guests know that they are invited to your wedding and to give them a heads-up about the date and location. While they are not as formal as official invitations, they are a good opportunity to share your wedding website with your guests.

Your wedding website is a key place to communicate with your guests and share pertinent information. It is helpful to include your wedding website on your save-the-date cards so that guests can refer to it for more in-depth information about your big day. This could include details such as the type of celebration, registry info, dress code, travel arrangements, and accommodations.

You can include your wedding website URL on your save-the-date cards or, if you prefer, you can create a QR code that guests can scan to be directed to the website. If your website is not quite ready when you send out your save-the-dates, you can still include the URL or QR code and add more information later.

It is worth noting that, while it is becoming more common to include wedding websites on save-the-date cards, it is not absolutely necessary. You may also choose to include your wedding website on your formal invitations or on a separate enclosure card. However, including it on your save-the-date cards gives your guests the earliest opportunity to start planning their travel and accommodations.

Spread the word through family and friends

While it is considered bad etiquette to include registry information on your wedding invitation, there are other ways to spread the word through family and friends.

Firstly, you can rely on word of mouth. This is a traditional method that has been used for years. Simply inform your immediate family, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other close friends about your registry preferences and let them know they can share this information with anyone who asks. This way, when guests want to know about your registry, they can easily find out by asking your family and friends.

Another way to use your network is to include registry information on your bridal shower invitations. It is common for someone else, like the mother of the bride, to host and organize the bridal shower. So, if the host includes a link or note about your registry on the invitation, it is perfectly acceptable. Since bridal showers are focused on gift-giving, guests will appreciate having this information.

Finally, you can also use your wedding website to share registry details. Include a dedicated registry tab on your website, where guests can easily find and access your registry information. Make sure to communicate your gift preferences in a genuine and heartfelt way on this page. You can even include a simple, thoughtful message or a creative poem to express your wishes.

Frequently asked questions