The Perfect Timing For Your Wedding Registry Viewability

Wedding registries are a fun part of the wedding planning process, but it's important to get the timing right. While it's not a good idea to set up a wedding registry before you're officially engaged, it's best to start your registry as soon as possible after getting engaged. This allows loved ones to congratulate you with gifts and shop for pre-wedding events, like an engagement party or couple's shower. It's also a good idea to have your registry set up by the time you send out save-the-dates or formal wedding invitations, although it's not appropriate to include registry information on these invites. The recommended sweet spot for starting a wedding registry is about one month after your engagement, giving you and your fiancé time to enjoy the excitement of being newly engaged.

Start your wedding registry as soon as possible after getting engaged

There are a few reasons why it's a good idea to start your wedding registry as soon as possible after getting engaged. Firstly, it gives your loved ones the opportunity to congratulate you with gifts if they wish to. It also allows them to easily shop for pre-wedding events, such as an engagement party or couple's shower. This way, friends and family can give you gifts that you will actually like and use, rather than something you already have or don't want.

Starting your registry early also saves you the hassle of having to return gifts that don't suit your needs or wants. It's considered an engagement faux pas to keep your guests in the dark about your wish list, and without a registry to guide them, you may end up with a lot of gifts that you need to return.

Additionally, creating your registry early on gives you time to add more items as guests start purchasing them. This ensures that there are always plenty of options at different price points for your guests to choose from. It's recommended to have a total of 2-3 gifts per guest, with a variety of price ranges to accommodate different budgets.

While there is no set time for when a registry has to be created, the sooner you set it up after your engagement, the better. This allows you and your fiancé time to bask in the excitement of being engaged before diving into the specifics of wedding planning. It also gives you time to get the word out to your friends and family, as it's considered polite to give guests at least a few months' notice to be able to purchase a gift at their convenience.

So, if you're recently engaged and wondering when to start your wedding registry, the answer is: as soon as possible! This will ensure you and your guests have a rewarding and straightforward experience.

Include gifts at a variety of price points

When creating a wedding registry, it's important to include gifts at a variety of price points to accommodate different budgets and preferences. Here are some tips to help you create a well-rounded registry with gifts at various price levels:

Determine Your Guest List

Before you start adding gifts to your registry, it's a good idea to have a clear idea of how many guests you're expecting. This will help you estimate the number of gifts you need to register for. As a rule of thumb, it's recommended to register for two gifts for every guest invited.

Set a Variety of Price Ranges

Aim to include gifts at different price levels to cater to a range of budgets. You can follow a simple formula to guide your selections:

• Keep 1/3 of the gifts under $50. These gifts will be suitable for those with tighter budgets, such as distant relatives or coworkers.
• Include 1/3 of gifts in the $50 to $100 range. This price range offers a great option for guests who want to purchase more than one item or contribute to a group gift.
• Offer 1/3 of gifts over $150. This category is perfect for immediate family and close friends who are likely to spend more on their gifts.
• Include a few high-end items: While the majority of your registry should be under $200, adding a few big-ticket items is a good idea. Some guests may want to splurge or contribute to a group gift for these luxury items.

Continuously Update Your Registry

It's important to remember that your wedding registry is not a static list. As gifts are purchased, be sure to add more items to ensure there are always plenty of options at different price points. Update your registry periodically, especially around key dates like sending out invitations or two weeks before and after your wedding.

Consider Group Gifting

Keep in mind that some of the more expensive items on your registry may be suitable for group gifting. For example, your coworkers might chip in together for that $500 Vitamix blender. By making any gift a group gift option, you increase the likelihood of receiving those higher-priced items.

Provide a Mix of Practical and Dream Items

While it's important to include practical items that you truly need, don't be afraid to add a few dream items as well. If you've always wanted a luxury grill or a designer espresso machine, put it on your registry! Your wedding registry is about celebrating your new life together, so include a mix of practical and indulgent gifts.

Offer Alternative Options

If you're unsure about registering for physical gifts, or if you already have everything you need, consider alternative options. You can register for gift cards to your favourite restaurants or stores, set up a honeymoon fund, or even suggest donations to a charity close to your heart. These days, anything goes, so feel free to think outside the box!

Share your registry on your wedding website

Now that you've created your wedding registry, it's time to share it with your loved ones. The best way to do this is by integrating it into your wedding website. This way, guests can easily access your registry and purchase gifts that will be shipped directly to you. It is considered a faux pas to include registry information on your wedding invitations, but it is perfectly acceptable to include a link to your wedding website, which houses all the important details about your big day, including your registry information.

When creating your registry, be sure to add items from a wide range of price points to accommodate different budgets. You can also register for cash funds, experiences, gift cards, and charity donations in addition to traditional gifts. This gives your guests more options to choose from and allows you to receive gifts that truly align with your interests and needs.

Remember, setting up your registry early in the wedding planning process has its perks. It not only makes it easier for your guests to shop for pre-wedding events and gifts but also ensures that you receive presents you truly want and will use. So, don't delay, start working on your registry as soon as possible after getting engaged.

To make the process smoother, communicate with your partner about their expectations and assess your needs and wants together. Take inventory of what you already have and create a list of items that would be meaningful and practical for your new life together. You can also browse other couples' registries for inspiration and reach out to friends and family who have gone through the process for advice.

Once your registry is live, be sure to review it periodically to ensure it reflects your current needs and preferences. It is also a good idea to update your registry two weeks before and after your wedding, as this is when most gifts are typically purchased.

Don't include registry information on your wedding invitations

It is generally considered rude to include registry information on your wedding invitations. However, there are ways to inform your guests about your registry without putting it directly on the invitations. Here are some reasons why you shouldn't include registry information on your wedding invitations, along with some alternative suggestions:

Emphasising Gifts Over Celebration

Including registry information on your wedding invitations can give the impression that getting gifts is more important to you than sharing your special day with loved ones. While this is certainly not the case, guests may assume so if they are directed to your wish list before even responding to your invitation. Wedding invitations should focus on building excitement for the upcoming celebration, and guests should feel honoured and delighted to be included. By leaving out registry details, you allow them to focus on the joy of the occasion without any pressure to consider gifts.

Traditional Etiquette

Traditional etiquette still indicates that it is inappropriate to include registry information on wedding invitations. While some modern couples may choose to include this information, it is generally considered more subtle and polite to provide these details elsewhere. This ensures that the invitation remains a formal and elegant announcement of your upcoming nuptials, free from any mention of gifts or money.

Alternative Ways to Share Registry Information

There are several alternative ways to inform your guests about your registry. One option is to include an informational insert in the envelope with a link to your wedding website, where they can find registry details. This approach is more subtle and allows guests to access all your wedding information in one place. You can also rely on word of mouth, where close family members and friends spread the word to those who ask about it. Additionally, you can include an insert card within your wedding invitation suite, providing a link to your wedding website or registry details in a subtle and polite manner.

Timing of Sharing Registry Information

It is recommended to start your wedding registry as soon as possible after getting engaged. This allows loved ones to offer congratulations and gifts if they wish and helps them shop for pre-wedding events. However, when it comes to sharing the registry information with your guests, it is best to provide these details closer to the wedding. You can include the link to your wedding website or registry on your save-the-dates or within your wedding invitation suite. This ensures that your guests have the necessary information when they are most likely to purchase gifts, which is typically two weeks before and two weeks after the wedding.

Update your registry two weeks before and after your wedding

It is recommended that you update your wedding registry two weeks before and two weeks after your wedding, as this is when most gifts are purchased. Here are some tips to keep in mind for updating your registry during this time:

Before the Wedding

When updating your registry before the wedding, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Give guests a variety of options: Ensure there are more items on your registry than guests, and that there is a range of pricing to accommodate different budgets. This also ensures that there are enough options for guests who like to buy multiple items.
• Add items you truly want or need: Prioritize adding items to your registry that you really want or need, such as a new mattress or a high-tech vacuum. This will help ensure you don't end up with gifts that aren't as useful to you.
• Keep an eye on inventory: Check your registry periodically to ensure that items are still available and in stock. If something becomes unavailable, replace it with a similar item so that guests have an alternative to choose from.
• Include a mix of traditional and non-traditional items: While traditional items like kitchen appliances and home goods are always a safe bet, don't be afraid to add some non-traditional items that reflect your interests and lifestyle. For example, if you love the outdoors, consider adding a tent or camping gear to your registry.
• Think about the future: Register for items that you may need in the future, even if you don't need them right now. Your tastes and needs may change over time, so it's a good idea to think ahead and register for a mix of practical and indulgent items.

After the Wedding

Even after the wedding, there are still some important things to keep in mind when it comes to your registry:

• Thank-you notes: Sending thank-you notes is crucial. Handwritten notes should be sent within two weeks of receiving gifts before the wedding and within two months after the wedding. Express your gratitude adequately and make your guests feel appreciated.
• Late shoppers: Remember that traditional wedding etiquette allows guests up to one year after the wedding day to buy a gift. Keep your registry active for at least this long, and ensure there are still options available for late gift-givers.
• Returns and exchanges: If you find that you've received duplicate gifts or items that you don't need, don't hesitate to utilize the return or exchange policies offered by the stores where you're registered. This will help you get items that are more useful to you.
• Completion discounts: Many stores offer completion discounts, where you can get a percentage off your purchase if you buy remaining items from your registry after the wedding. Take advantage of this to get any remaining items on your wish list.
• Registry as a resource: Your registry can continue to be a valuable resource even after the wedding. Use it as a wish list for future occasions like birthdays or holidays, and don't be afraid to treat yourself to any remaining items that you still want.

Frequently asked questions